ESOL Minor
Gain a comprehensive understanding of language acquisition, linguistics, and culturally responsive teaching practices.
Through coursework covering topics such as language assessment, pedagogical strategies, and multicultural education, students learn to effectively support K-12 English language learners in diverse educational settings.
With practical experiences in language teaching and intercultural communication, the minor prepares students to address the linguistic and cultural needs of English language learners in both domestic and international contexts.
Additional Information:
Students need to consult with the ESOL advisor prior to planning or enrolling in the ESOL minor coursework. For a full list of courses and additional information, see the Department of Teaching and Leadership's ESOL Minor program guide.
Teacher candidates do not have to know another language in order to be successful in this minor (it is helpful but not required). The purpose of the program is to support future teachers as they learn how to develop and differentiate curricula, while teaching core academic content, assess learning, and provide support for families who are not native English speakers.
The coursework and field experiences are centered around research and best teaching practices. The minor will expand and enrich teaching skills in a collaborative environment. The hands-on interactive teaching strategies that work for all students, but are especially effective for ELLs, can be modified to all subjects and grade levels. They will enable future educators to better serve the needs of all students they teach.
Native English speakers are highly sought after by International English Language institutions.
Career Options:
ESOL teaching is identified in Kansas, nationally and internationally as a high need field. As a graduate with this minor, you will be equipped to secure employment in the following roles, and more:
- Preschool ESOL teacher in a Kansas public school (teaching license required)
- Elementary ESOL teacher in a Kansas public school (teaching license required)
- Middle level ESOL teacher in a Kansas public school (teaching license required)
- Secondary ESOL teacher in a Kansas public school (teaching license required)
- Pre K-12 ESOL program teacher in a Kansas public school (teaching license required)
- U.S. English Language institution faculty
- International English Language institution faculty
- Adult Education ESOL teacher
Additional information
for the Department of Teaching and Leadership
Catalog – see program guides