The English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement is a unique program addressing the overlapping dimensions of language, culture, learner, educator, school system, and society. It is designed for students who are enrolled in a teacher education program, or those with a K-12 teaching license, or educators who are seeking to gain more in-depth knowledge of transnational second language learners and the field of K-12 ESL education.
The endorsement is earned by completing 5 required courses (15 credits) and fieldwork with language learners (1.5 credits). To meet the needs of students already conducting field work in schools and working professionals, all of these classes are broadcast in the late afternoon and evening and can be taken from any USU campus. The courses are offered in the “connect” format which means students register through their closest USU campus, but also have the option to attend class on Zoom as needed. This flexible format enables us to serve the broadest community possible across the state of Utah! This means that we are also flexible about the location of field experiences. We facilitate placements based on the locations and needs of enrolled students. Many practicing teachers are able to complete the field component of the endorsement in the schools where they are already employed.
ESL Endorsement Courses
5 Required Courses (15 Credits) + 3 Field Experience Credits (1.5) = 16.5 Credits
| Course # & Information | Semesters/Terms Offered |
| TEAL 5710 (undergraduate), 6710 (graduate) (3cr) | Every Fall & Spring; TEAL 6710 also offered in Summer |
| TEAL 5735 (3cr) | Fall 2025, Spring 2027 (every spring thereafter) |
| TEAL 4755/6755 (3cr) + 0.5 cr. Field Experience = 3.5 cr. | Fall 2025 (every fall) |
| TEAL 4770/6770 (3cr) + 0.5 cr. Field Experience = 3.5 cr. | Fall 2026 (every fall) |
| TEAL 4780/6780 (3cr) + 0.5 cr. Field Experience = 3.5 cr. | Spring 2026 (every spring) |
The five ESL endorsement courses can also be completed as part of a Master’s degree, or they can be applied to a Master’s degree later (following any relevant policy restrictions)
The ESL endorsement coursework overlaps with that required for the Dual Language Immersion (DLI) endorsement. If you are interested in the DLI endorsement, find more information: DLI Endorsement
For more information on the ESL endorsement and/or graduate emphasis, contact: