TESOL courses are upper-level undergraduate courses. You must meet the entrance requirements of Acadia University. You must also have some undergraduate course experience or permission from the program coordinator.
The TESOL Program is designed for people from a broad spectrum of backgrounds. The courses will focus on the practical application of theoretical concepts in TESOL, taught by experienced ESL teachers.
The practice of teaching an ESL class is a challenging and rewarding proposition. Having experienced and supportive people around you to provide feedback and to discuss your teaching is valuable regardless of your level of experience.
We recommend that all students take a look at the core texts prior to starting the Acadia TESOL program, and do some reading in areas that they might be unfamiliar with.
See above.
If English is not your first language, you will be required to submit proof of English language proficiency. The minimum requirements are TOEFL iBT of 93 or equivalent. If you do not meet the requirements for the course, you can choose to study in our EAP program. Completion of the EAP Bridging Level would also fulfill the language requirement.
Please note that in order to apply for TESL Canada Certification, you must meet the language proficiency requirements designated by TESL Canada.
Whether you study on campus or online, you will have the same high-quality instruction and ability to apply for TESL Canada certification. Studying online allows you to study from any location, at your own pace, and to adjust the program to your lifestyle.
It is recommended that you study the two theory courses (EDUC 4683 and EDUC 4863) before studying the methodology course (EDUC 4673). This way, you can build your knowledge of teaching practice on a solid theoretical foundation. However, if it is not possible to complete the courses in this order due to time or scheduling constraints, you will still benefit from all three courses no matter in which order they are taken.
Students who have a TESOL Program status are not eligible to receive student loan funding. Students must be in a degree program to be eligible for a student loan.
Technology is an important element of the program and classroom experience, and we recommend that all students choose to bring a laptop computer, provided that it meets the minimum requirements for the course. Students will require a computer and internet connection to complete related course work.
The online TESOL Program requires a computer and internet connection that meet minimum requirements. Questions about minimum computing requirements should be addressed to tesol@acadiau.ca.
You will have access to Acadia’s library system for the duration of the course. All texts on the reading list will be put on reserve at the library, and there will be photocopying facilities there. The reading list for each course is included in the detailed course description.
You will also have access to Acadia's fitness facilities and many other student resources on campus.
Yes, provided you also hold a university degree. Though individual LINC training centres will have different hiring criteria, in general they will require a university degree and TESL teacher training accreditation. Since our TESOL program is accredited by TESL Canada, it exceeds the minimum requirements of most LINC training centres for the accreditation component.
More information on the LINC program can be found here.
Professional development and job searching will be topics of discussion during the certificate. All of your instructors have international work experience and can help provide you with advice and guidance on work placement.
If you would like to discuss these issues prior to registering for the course, please contact tesol@acadiau.ca and we will be happy to discuss your particular situation, and the professional possibilities that the TESOL Program would open up for you.