Specialize in English Language Learning with APU’s TESOL Certification

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The Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) prepares post-baccalaureate students who desire specialized skills in TESOL but do not wish to pursue the graduate degree. The six-course certificate offers broad exposure to the field of TESOL, focusing on teaching speaking, listening, reading, writing, and grammar skills, along with an overview of language learning and intercultural communication. Ideal for supplementing and enhancing traditional ministry (e.g., translation, literacy, and friendship evangelism) within multicultural or cross-cultural environments, this TESOL certification program incorporates work which may lead to a Master of Arts in TESOL, for those who choose to continue in pursuit of the master’s degree.

Two convenient formats are available: on campus and online. The on-campus program maintains an international focus with many students coming from abroad to take classes on the Azusa campus. Full-time teachers working outside the United States complete their program by taking courses in an intensive, one-week format.

Graduates of APU’s TESOL programs are serving internationally and in the U.S.—in public schools, colleges and universities, private institutes, and businesses. Others have gone on to complete doctoral work in such fields as applied linguistics, international education, or intercultural studies.

Certificate Program Highlights

• APU’s TESOL certificate program combines compassionate Christian service with strong academic and practical preparation for language teaching.
• Students gain specialized skills in TESOL and credit which may be applied toward an MA in TESOL.
• Situated in the greater Los Angeles area, APU’s location provides students in the on-campus program exposure to a diverse linguistic and multicultural experience.
• The online program provides options for students to study TESOL from any location around the globe.
• Certificate holders are qualified for volunteer and entry-level English language teaching positions, both stateside and abroad.

Learn more about our faculty.

College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Accreditation

Azusa Pacific University receives accreditation from the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

University Reputation

U.S. News & World Report’s America’s Best Colleges 2023 edition named Azusa Pacific to its list of top national universities and several other significant lists, including First-Year Experiences and Top Performers on Social Mobility. The Princeton Review designated APU as 1 of 126 institutions in the “Best Western Colleges” section of its 2023 Best Colleges guide. APU’s School of Nursing was named a top nursing school in California for 2023 by College Factual and Niche. APU was included as a top-100 degree producer by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and is a designated Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI). Azusa Pacific is also a Military Friendly School and Yellow Ribbon University, serving more than 500 military-connected students and families, and is classified by the Carnegie Foundation as an R2 Doctoral Research University.