Certificate in English Language Learner (ELL)

Introduction

The Certificate in English Language Learner (ELL) at Antioch University is a 5-course program designed primarily for certified teachers who wish to obtain their ELL Endorsement; however, enrollment is open to anyone interested in learning more about best practices for ELL teaching and learning. This program helps to prepare students for success on the ELL/ESOL WEST-E/NES test, as well as for success teaching ELL students.

This certificate is offered by AU Seattle

Program Overview

Courses for this program were designed with an overall social justice framework, and specific emphases were placed on the following areas of instruction: Foundations of Language & Language Acquisition, Foundations of ESOL Instruction, and Instruction & Assessment of English Language Learners. Participants in this endorsement program will have opportunities to learn about best practices in ELL education not only through coursework and discussions, but also through fieldwork in area schools working with ELL students, families, and teachers. Antioch University strives to develop reflective practitioners who will go on to serve as advocates for ELL students in a wide variety of educational settings.

There are two pathways to earn this endorsement. Apply for the certificate program, which will enable you to be eligible for financial aid. Or simply take the required courses for the endorsement. In either case, students who successfully complete the course sequence will be recommended for the endorsement.

Degree Requirements

Requirements

The Antioch University Seattle School of Education is pleased to offer a social justice-focused Certificate in English Language Learner (ELL) for teachers in grades K-12 and anyone interested in gaining knowledge and experience in educating English language learners through culturally responsive methods. The program can be completed by fulfilling three steps.

Coursework
Complete a five-course program designed to enable educators to meet the needs of their current and future students with a deep understanding of English Language Learners, language acquisition, methods and practices of instruction, assessment, and historical and political contexts in schools.

Field Experience
While you earn your endorsement, embed course learning at the school where you teach English Language Learners or an alternate location. For those who do not teach ELL students, support in finding a suitable placement will be offered.

Content Area Test
Pass the Washington Educator Skills Test – Endorsements (WEST-E) 051. With coursework carefully designed with objectives relevant to the test, your success will be scaffolded along the way.

Program Length
5 quarters, 1 class per quarter

Core Courses

• Foundations for Teaching English Language Learners
• Global Perspectives in Children’s Literature
• Instruction and Assessment Methods for ELL: English Language Arts
• Instruction and Assessment Methods for ELL: Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies
• Seminar on ELL Topics in Education

Antioch University Seattle Master of Arts in Teaching graduates may substitute the ELL endorsement course taken in the program for the Foundations for Teaching English Language Learners endorsement course.

Career Outlook

Students who complete this program can find careers as a/an:

• Public elementary or middle school ELL endorsed teacher
• Independent school ELL endorsed teacher
• International teacher in a school or program
• Informal educator, in non-school settings such as non-profit organization, arts or cultural institution
• Online educator
• Educational research specialist in the area of English Language Learners or Language Acquisition
• Educational advocate for English Language Learners
• Educational consultant