City University of Seattle offers a unique, fast-track opportunity for students who would like to earn their graduate Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate and transition to teaching abroad. A TESOL certificate is a globally recognized standard that can be the key to unlocking new opportunities abroad. The TESOL program offers the flexibility you need to continue working while taking classes. You choose your own timeline for completion – our five-week, on-campus summer intensive or three quarters online/mixed mode. CityU provides the perfect place for you to see and practice what you’ve learned. Our Intensive English Language Program serves as a live laboratory for teacher candidates.  At CityU, we have a whole team ready to answer your questions and get you on the road to success. If you are interested in learning more about our Graduate Certificate in TESOL, connect with our advisors to learn more, or visit the Washington Academy of Languages website.

Note: This certificate program is not an eligible program to receive federal financial aid funding, unless the classes are required for a Master's degree program. This is an eligible program for students using their military educational benefits.

Learning Outcomes

Throughout the TESOL certificate program, you’ll learn:

• Major theories of first and second language acquisition and how the two processes are related
• Historical overview of language teaching methodology
• Form, meaning, and use of English grammar structures
• Strategies for teaching reading, writing, listening, and speaking to English language learners
• Needs-based, learner-centered approach to selecting, adapting, supplementing, and developing classroom materials for the adult learner of English

Intern in Seattle Experience

The Intern at City University of Seattle Experience is only an option for students enrolled in the MEd in Adult Education program. Students who choose CityU as their internship site work with an experienced mentor as they assist in facilitating classroom activities. City University of Seattle’s campus is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Seattle and in close proximity to our residence hall.

Domestic Students

An undergraduate degree and proof of English proficiency qualify you to apply for this program. Admission to the graduate-level TESOL program requires students to hold a four-year baccalaureate degree (or equivalent) from an accredited or otherwise recognized institution. Complete the CityU online application; or complete, sign, and return a paper application form to Admissions at City University of Seattle, 521 Wall St., Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98121. If mailing a paper application form, please include the fee with your completed application. Request transcripts from all institutions you’ve attended. Have them sent directly to City University of Seattle Registrar’s Office, 521 Wall St., Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98121.

Note: Electronic transcripts are accepted at City University of Seattle if sent from another recognized institution using proper security measures. They may also be emailed to evaluations@cityu.edu. Electronic transcripts sent directly or forwarded from students or other individuals/businesses not in a direct agreement with CityU will be considered unofficial. Submit proof of English proficiency, if applicable.

International Students

International students are eligible to study online in your home country or on an F-1 visa for the summer intensive session. We will provide an I-20 to accepted applicants, which will be used to apply for the F-1 visa. Please submit the following items to apply:

• Application
• Application fee: $50
• Copy of your passport ID page
• Copy of your bank statement that shows the amount you have in the bank, the address of the bank, and a signature from someone at the bank.
• Official score reports of an English placement test (iTEP or TOEFL)

If you don’t meet the English Language Proficiency requirements, we have an English program that you may attend before you begin your TESOL studies. You must successfully complete level 8 of our program in order to start the TESOL program. Please email us for more information about this option.