A Nine-Month, Flexible Path to ESL Licensure for Massachusetts Educators
The English as a Second Language (ESL) Graduate Certificate at Regis is designed specifically for educators who want to expand their licensure and better support English Language Learners (ELLs). Massachusetts schools are seeing a rapid increase in ELL students, and the shortage of certified ESL teachers continues to grow. This certificate offers a faster, more affordable route to an ESL Initial License, designed to fit into the schedule of working teachers.
Who Should Apply?
This program is tailored for current Massachusetts educators who:
- Already hold an initial or professional teaching license
- Want to add teaching ESL certification to their credentials
- Are looking for a cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to a full master's degree
- Teach in areas such as Early Childhood, Elementary, Math, Special Education, and more
Why Choose Regis
- Accelerated timeline – Complete the program in just nine months
- Flexible format – Courses are offered fully online and asynchronous, ideal for working professionals
- Hands-on experience – Practical applications are embedded in every course, and the internship is completed at your current school, with in-person mentoring and support.
- Strong partnerships – Regis has established relationships with multiple school districts that are actively seeking ESL teachers
- ESL MTEL preparation included – A dedicated test prep course helps candidates succeed on the ESL MTEL (Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure)
What can you expect from this certificate program?
Upon completing the program, educators will be able to:
- Understand the impact of culture and identity on English Language Learners
- Implement effective lesson plans and strategies for culturally and linguistically diverse students
- Promote student literacy and language development
After successfully finishing the program, passing the ESL MTEL, and completing 150 hours in an ESL setting internship, educators will be prepared to receive an initial license in teaching ESL.
Program Curriculum
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| ED 531 Culture, Linguistics, and Identity | 3 |
| ED 532 Literacy Learning and the English Language Learner | 3 |
| ED 533 Content, Curriculum, and Assessment for English Language Learners | 3 |
| ED 534 Theories and Principles of Second Language Acquisition | 3 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| ED 535 ESL MTEL Preparation Course | 1 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
| ED 536 Internship: English as a Second Language (Supervised by both a school-based practitioner and Regis faculty member) | 4 (150 hours) |
Admission Requirements
- Bachelor's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0
- Completed application and official transcripts
- Resume and personal statement
- One letter of recommendation
- Copy of current MA teaching license
Additional Requirements
- Maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA throughout the program
- Participate in an orientation session before coursework begins
- Attend an advisement check-in before starting the internship
Ready to Advance Your Career?
The ESL Graduate Certificate at Regis offers you a fast, flexible, and supportive path to licensure, without stepping away from your current position. With just nine months of study, you can earn an additional license, make an impact on the lives of your ELL students, and open the door to new career possibilities.
Program Director
Admission Counselor
