tesol

Prospective Students

Welcome to the TESOL certificate program at Woodsworth College, U of T

Since 1972, the University of Toronto has offered specialized academic and professional preparation to individuals interested in teaching English to second language learners, specifically adults.

The certificate program changed its name from TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language) to TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) in 2006.  The new name more accurately reflects the fact that the program considers both Teaching English as a Second Language (e.g., to recent immigrants to Canada) and Teaching English as a Foreign Language (e.g., to non-English speakers abroad).

Why Choose U of T for TESOL

  • Academic Excellence: The University of Toronto’s TESOL Certificate has a reputation for academic excellence and is a leader in the field of TESOL education.
  • Theory & Practice: The program provides a sound theoretical basis for second language learning and teaching, drawing on the most current research in linguistics, second language acquisition, and teaching methodology. This is complemented by actual classroom practice that we arrange to help students develop the skills necessary for successful learning and teaching.
  • Recognized Certificate: This was one of the first programs approved by TESL Ontario as a recognized training program for their Certificate for Adult ESL Instructors in Ontario.  Also, the TESOL training program at this institution is recognized by TESL Canada (Professional Certificate Standard Two).
  • Full-time or Part-time Study: Students admitted to the program full-time may complete it in eight months.  Four or more courses per term is considered full-time study, and three or less courses per term is a part-time load.  (In the summer session, four courses or more is considered full-time, less than four is part-time.)
  • ESL Part 1 and 2 Additional Qualifications: Courses in this TESOL program can be counted towards the Ontario College of Teaches Part 1 and 2 ESL additional qualifications.
  • Dynamic Classroom Environment: The program attracts a wide variety of individuals. Some are interested in working in Canada teaching new Canadians or international students. Others are interested in travel and working abroad. Still other graduates go on to more advanced studies in the field of second language learning.
  • Graduate Employability: Our graduates are highly competitive securing employment in a variety of areas including teaching Adult ESL locally with boards of education, colleges, universities and private language schools and teaching English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in private and public educational institutions abroad.  In addition, students have access to a number of services to assist them in finding work, including listings of jobs at the U of T Career Centre and an annual TESOL employment information session. See the FAQ document on the right for details.
  • OSAP Eligible

Students’ Comments

“My certificate from the University of Toronto is a very valuable asset.  After the course, I was immediately employed and have enjoyed teaching in the field of ESL ever since.  The theoretical background, coupled with the practical teaching tools I learned in the Woodsworth courses, has helped me immensely in the classroom and has given me the confidence to pursue a Master's degree in English Language Teaching.”

A. Joseph, ESL Instructor, English School of Canada, Toronto

"The Woodsworth TESOL program offers a real-world perspective. The instructors relate sound and practical knowledge that is truly useful in today’s industry. Whether you are thinking about going abroad or making a career of teaching English in Canada, this is the right program. The depth and scope of the material taught is what separates the Woodsworth TESOL program from the others.”

Ian Wigglesworth, English Language Program

School of Continuing Studies, Toronto

 

"In many ways, beyond teaching, the TESL skills have proven valuable – especially cross-cultural communication, the respect for adult learning and learners, and simple communication."

K. Buckenham, Acting Director, Pietermaritzburg Agency for Christian Social Awareness

Pietermaritzburg, South Africa

 

Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)Woodsworth College, Third Floor (House)
University of Toronto
119 St. George Street
Toronto, Ontario, M5S 1A9
Telephone: 416-978-8713
Fax: 416-946-3516

E-mail: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

 

Portable Documents

Quick Facts

  • Courses in theTESOL Certificate Program can be counted towards the Ontario College of Teachers ESL "Additional Qualifications", Parts 1 and 2.