The Graduate Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) is an 18-unit program of study designed to be completed in one semester of full-time study, or the equivalent part-time study.

The course is offered by the Faculty of Education, Humanities and Law.

Admission requirements

Applicants must have an Australian bachelors degree or its equivalent from a recognised university. English language proficiency must be demonstrated in accordance with University policy. However, the Faculty Board may, under certain circumstances and subject to specific conditions, admit others who can show evidence of fitness for candidature.

Course aims

This course is aimed at the development of skills in the area of TESOL. It is also designed to facilitate the development of disciplinary knowledge in the area of Second Language acquisition, as well as specific knowledge in the area of Teaching English as a Second Language.

The combination of theoretical knowledge and teaching methodology combine to equip prospective TESOL practitioners with tools for classroom practice.

The flexibility of delivery of the four topics in The Graduate Certificate TESOL will cater for the following groups:

  • graduates who do not have a formal teaching qualification and wish to teach English as a Second Language
  • qualified teachers who require specialised knowledge in TESOL
  • qualified teachers of other subjects which are taught using English as the language of instruction.

This course aims to:

  • explore current theories in Second Language acquisition
  • investigate classroom issues related to Teaching English as a Second Language (ESOL)
  • equip learners with the basic tools for teaching ESOL.

Learning outcomes

Students will demonstrate their skills and knowledge by:

  • describing current theories in Second Language acquisition
  • identifying classroom issues related to teaching ESOL
  • articulating Second Language teaching methodologies.

Credit

Eligible students may be granted up to 4.5 units of credit transfer for prior study, which may include Accreditation of Professional Development Pathways Modules (PDF 12KB) completed through DECS.

Program of study

To qualify for The Graduate Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language a student must complete 18 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the following program of study:

Core - Year 1 topics


 ESOL8001  Second Language Learning and Teaching  (4.5 units)
 ESOL8002  Second Language Testing  (4.5 units)
 ESOL8003  Introduction to English Linguistics  (4.5 units)
 ESOL8004  TESOL Methodology  (4.5 units)