What is the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE?

The CAS in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE is a graduate-level qualification focused on the teaching of languages. Students may dual enroll in the CAS in Language Teaching and the MA in Linguistic Studies, complete the necessary classes, and get both qualifications upon graduation. See the following website for more information on the MA in Linguistics.

Does the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE provide certification to teach in public schools?

The Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE qualifies students to teach in a broad range of educational, business, community-based, and government settings, but does not provide certification to teach in K-12 public schools in New York State. Students may be able to seek New York State Certification independently using some of the classes taken as part of the CAS.

Does the CAS in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE program offer Spring admission?

The CAS in Language Teaching (TESOL/TLOTE) program can offer Spring admission if students begin with an elective that does not have prerequisites. The remaining required courses must be taken in the following sequence: LIN 601, Introductory Linguistic Analysis; LIN 621, Introduction to Methods for Language Teaching; LIN 622, Advanced Methods for Language Teaching.

Can the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE be studied part-time?

Yes. On a regular schedule, the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE is studied part-time over three semesters: Fall-Spring-Fall.

Can the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE be studied full-time?

When the accelerated 6-month schedule is available, the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE can be studied in two semesters: one semester full time (July-Aug) and one semester part-time (Fall).

Will the accelerated July-December schedule be offered this year?

Yes.  You can start the program on July 2nd, 20XX and finish in December, 20XX.

Can I apply for the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE alone?

Yes. The CAS in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE is a stand-alone program. As with all graduate programs, you must apply through the Graduate School. Use the “Apply” tab on the CAS website, or go directly to http://gradsch.syr.edu/admissions.html. However, if you are an international student, you should note that full time study is required to maintain U.S. visa status; therefore, you either need to follow the CAS program on the accelerated schedule or dual enroll with another program.

How do I dual enroll in the Certificate of Advanced Studies in Language Teaching: TESOL/TLOTE and the MA in Linguistic Studies?

You should apply for the MA in Linguistic Studies first. Once you are accepted into that program and you arrive in Syracuse, see Professor Amanda Brown for the internal admission form for the CAS in Language Teaching.

What is the minimum TOEFL score for applications?

There is no official minimum, but we strongly recommend a score of 100 on the iBT or 7 on the IELTS.

Do you accept IETLS?

Yes. We recommend a score of 7 or higher.

When is the deadline for applications?

Applications may be submitted any time during the academic year, although a minimum of three months before the start date is recommended. International students are strongly advised to allow more time for visa processing.

What do you look for in an application?

Application procedures at can be found at http://gradsch.syr.edu/admissions.html.  We typically look at the following criteria when assessing applications:

• personal statement detailing interest in the field of Language Teaching
• transcripts and GPA from previous studies
• three recommendation letters
• TOEFL / IELTS score for non-native English speakers

Is a background in Linguistics or Language Teaching required for the CAS in Language Teaching (TESOL/TLOTE)?

No, a background in Linguistics or Language Teaching is not required as the program begins with introductory courses.

Is professional experience required for the CAS in Language Teaching (TESOL/TLOTE)?

No, professional experience is not required. Students in the CAS in Language Teaching (TESOL/TLOTE) will gain teaching experience through a supervised teach practicum.

How do I apply?

Applicants must apply through the Graduate School and not the Dept. Go directly to http://gradsch.syr.edu/admissions.html.