English as a Second Language Program Specialist

Program Overview

The English as a Second Language Program Specialist Certificate is designed to prepare candidates to become leaders in the field of second language acquisition.  Candidates will be prepared to support students and other teachers using their expert knowledge and skills. Those who complete the program will gain an understanding and appreciation of various cultures as well as acquire a solid foundation in the theories and current research in second language acquisition. 

Each course has a corresponding 15 hour practicum course, which must be completed in the field. At least one placement must be in a PK-12 classroom setting. Candidates will work with the program coordinator to set up practicum experiences.

SCHOOL OF EDUCATION VIRTUAL INFORMATION SESSIONS

We invite you to join us for a virtual information session to learn more about Gannon University's online ESL Program Specialist program. We invite you to join us by video or phone. Registration is required and a link will be sent via email before the session.

• February 14, 2023
• March 14, 2023
• April 11, 2023
• May 9, 2023
• June 13, 2023
• July 11, 2023
• August 8, 2023

What Makes Us Different

• Program can be completed in conjunction with an initial teaching certification program at Gannon
• Sixty hours of experience built into program

Exit Criteria

• All required coursework as indicated on the program plan of study must be completed
• All course grades must be B- or higher
• Final GPA for the program must be 3.0 or higher

State Authorization

View Gannon's State Authorization for more information on SARA and state authorization. Have a complaint about a distance education program or courses? Read the state contact information document to learn more about filing a complaint.

Student Success

Gannon's Online Engagement Coordinator facilitates our online new student orientations, implements strategies to ensure that online students are active in their online courses, and provides general online student support through a variety of high-touch methods to engage students and support student retention efforts. Gannon online students can reach out with general questions about online learning or how to remotely access Gannon's comprehensive student services.

Elizabeth Meier, ESL Specialist Candidate

"The ESL Specialist Certification Program at Gannon University has given me effective instructional tools that I can apply right away. It has changed the way I view ESL instruction, and I am a better teacher because of it."

SCHOOL DISTRICT REIMBURSEMENT

Many school districts and employers offer tuition reimbursement to employees who choose to further their education.  If your employer provides this perk, Gannon University offers the following plans:

• If your employer offers a 100% tuition reimbursement program, you may defer the balance of your semester bill until 45 days after the end of the semester. A signed reimbursement form and $100 down payment is required by the semester bill due date. No interest will be charged.
• If your employer offers a partial reimbursement program, you may defer your employer's portion of the tuition until 45 days after the end of the semester. A signed reimbursement form and payment for the amount not covered by your employer is required by the semester bill due date. No interest will be charged.

To utilize this deferment option, please submit a signed school district reimbursement form and your applicable down payment by the semester bill due date. Payment can be made on your student account in Gannon Self-Service and school district reimbursement forms may be submitted to cashier001@gannon.edu.