A comprehensive 36-credit program is available for teacher candidates in Second Language Education who are not yet certified as ESOL teachers in the State of New York.

The Second Language Education program has been streamlined to follow the state’s lead in making hands-on fieldwork learning central to every student’s experience. Student teaching is complemented by a modified practicum, designed to support students pursuing professional certification and offering a unique opportunity to work with faculty in conducting original research.

SUNY New Paltz faculty are actively engaged in the evolution of practice in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). They have served on New York State committees tasked with developing and implementing new English language proficiency standards, and as leaders of professional organizations that are at the vanguard of this rapidly-growing area of teaching and learning.

The need for ENL teachers in the United States, and in the Hudson Valley, has never been greater. A Master’s degree in Second Language Education can also be a great launching pad to rewarding careers working with students all around the globe. Many New Paltz alumni have found rewarding opportunities teaching internationally in communities where demand for English language instruction is high.