Teaching Multilingual Learners

The Teaching Multilingual Learners Minor provides you with the knowledge and skills to teach English language learners. It is designed to complement any major and will prepare you to use these skills in various professional settings.

You’ll learn in-demand skills to work with multilingual learners in Pre-K through high school classrooms in the United States. The minor is also recommended if you are interested in teaching English overseas, working in nonprofit organizations, or exploring the field of language-related education policies. Through both theory and practice, you will learn how to engage diverse learners and promote equitable learning outcomes.

Certification and Licensure

As a Teaching Multilingual Learners Minor, you’ll earn a TESOL certificate, which makes you eligible to teach in settings like private language schools, adult education programs or abroad. The coursework will also prepare you for the Massachusetts ESL MTEL exam, one of the requirements for specializing in teaching multilingual learners within public schools.

The Teaching Multilingual Learners Minor, on its own, does not lead to Massachusetts state teacher licensure. If you are interested in becoming a licensed public school teacher, we encourage you to explore our Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and Secondary Education Programs.

Minor

Teacher in a classroom with young students.Practicum in Teaching Multilingual Learners

In addition to your coursework, you’ll work with multilingual learners in the community under the supervision of experienced instructors. You will design and deliver lessons, assess student progress, and participate in weekly reflection and discussion. Throughout the experience, you’ll gain practical insights into the challenges and rewards of teaching English to multilingual learners.

 

Education Career Pathways

If you are interested in becoming a certified teacher in PreK-12 schools, we offer three licensure programs approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education: Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, and Secondary Education. Enhancing any of these majors with the Teaching Multilingual Learners Minor makes you more versatile and opens up additional job opportunities.

Not sure which path to take? We’re here to help. You’ll receive personal guidance from both faculty and peer advisors. Plus, our Career Navigators in our Life and Career Design Institute will help you align your academic, personal and professional goals.

Department

Offered by the Education department.