Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Major | Minor

ApplyRequest InfoVisit

Why Study Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages at Goshen College?

Students sitting at desk in class

As a TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll gain the skills and cultural understanding needed to support English language learners in classrooms and communities, both locally and globally. This program offers practical training to help you teach English with empathy, clarity, and confidence.
Whether you aspire to become a classroom teacher, serve in an international setting, or enhance your global communication skills, the TESOL major and minor pair seamlessly with majors in education, global studies, Spanish, and more. You’ll graduate ready to connect across cultures and make a meaningful impact through language education.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in graduate school, or in service within a year
  • #4
    Goshen College is nationally ranked #4 for study abroad programs

    Career Paths

    A TESOL minor opens doors to careers in:

    • K-12 Education
    • Adult ESL Instruction
    • International English Teaching (e.g., Peace Corps, volunteer service, private language schools)
    • Cross-cultural and refugee services
    • Language curriculum development

    TESOL is a valuable credential for careers in education, international development, nonprofit work, and more.

    Curriculum and Courses

    In the TESOL major and minor, you’ll delve into linguistics, intercultural communication, and language teaching methodologies. Through fieldwork and practicum experiences, you’ll gain practical, hands-on training in real educational settings.

    Courses in the TESOL minor may include:

    • Introduction to Linguistics
    • Literacy
    • Global English
    • TESOL Methods and Practicum
    • World Literature

    Students planning to pursue licensure should speak with their advisor to plan for certification pathways.

    See the full list of courses and requirements in the course catalog

    Course Catalog

    Hands-On Learning Opportunities

    You’ll gain hands-on teaching experience through field placements and practicum opportunities in K-12 classrooms, community organizations, or adult ESL programs. These immersive learning experiences will help you build confidence in lesson planning, classroom management, and cultural competency.

    TESOL majors and minors also benefit from Goshen College’s intercultural emphasis, including opportunities to engage with English learners on campus and abroad.

    Scholarships

    Students in the Deaf studies program are eligible for a variety of Goshen College scholarships. Visit our Scholarships Page for current opportunities.

    Explore more of our scholarships

    Facilities & Resources

    As a student, you’ll have access to:

    • On-campus language learning labs
    • Supportive faculty mentors with TESOL experience
    • Field placement partnerships with local schools and language programs

     

    Ready to get started?

    ApplyRequest InfoVisit

    Related majors & minors

    All Majors & Minors

    • Undecided

      Choosing to be undecided means being intentional about finding a path that’s right for you.

    • Deaf Studies

      With a Deaf studies degree, you’ll be equipped to work at the intersection of language, access, and advocacy in diverse fields.

    • English

      At Goshen College, you’ll immerse yourself in the power of language—reading great literature, crafting compelling stories, and sharpening your writing and critical thinking skills.

    • Piano Pedagogy

      If you love the piano and want to share that passion with others, the Piano Pedagogy minor at Goshen College is the perfect way to turn your talent into a meaningful teaching career.

    • Writing

      As a writing major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll hone your voice and develop the confidence to write with purpose, clarity, and creativity.

    • Spanish

      As a Spanish major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll learn to communicate confidently and effectively in one of the most widely spoken languages in the world.

    • Secondary Education

      Our nationally accredited program blends subject-specific expertise with hands-on classroom experiences and inclusive teaching strategies, preparing you to make an impact in diverse school environments.

    • Elementary Education

      If you’re passionate about shaping young minds and creating inclusive, engaging classrooms, Goshen College’s elementary education program is the perfect place to start your journey.

    • Sign Language Interpreting

      Goshen College offers one of the few four-year bachelor’s degree programs in sign language interpreting in the region. Our program emphasizes hands-on learning, real-world experiences and a strong foundation in ethics and communication.

    • Physical Education

      As a physical education major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll gain the skills to promote health, movement and lifelong wellness in ways that truly matter.

      All Majors & Minors