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English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

Graduate Certificate

Grand Rapids • Online • 24 Credits

Face to face

Students are required to come to a GVSU campus for face-to-face instruction to complete the program requirements. Instruction is face-to-face (though some courses may be offered online in addition).

Hybrid

Students come to a GVSU campus more than one time a semester for face-to-face instruction, with additional class meetings online. Instruction is online and face-to-face.

Low Residency

Students come to a GVSU campus no more than one time a semester (e.g., one weekend, week, class session, etc.). Instruction is mostly online.

Online

Students are not required to come to any GVSU campus to complete the program requirements. Instruction is fully online.

The United States is growing more diverse, as is the international global marketplace. A graduate certificate in English to speakers of other languages (ESOL) benefits those interested in teaching English language and content to non-native speakers of English.

Overview

Grand Valley's graduate certificate in English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) is designed for individuals interested in teaching English to non-native speakers. The program provides in-service and prospective teachers with essential theories, strategies, and techniques for effective teaching and support of English learners.

The curriculum includes courses such as:
  • ESL Methodologies.
  • English Learner Language Development.
  • Teaching Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students.
  • Bilingualism and Biliteracy Development.
  • Assessment of English Learners. 

Studying ESOL at Grand Valley offers significant benefits, including experienced instructors, tailored courses to meet diverse classroom needs, and flexible online or hybrid formats. The program's integration of technology and social-emotional learning prepares educators to effectively support English learners in various educational settings.

Admission Information

For general requirements for graduate admission, visit Grand Valley State University’s admission section of the online catalog.

Admission into the ESOL program has additional requirements, which are available on this page.

If you have additional questions, please contact our graduate admissions office.

Courses   Admission Requirements   Program Requirements  
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  Program Website
Graduate Education Programs

Rui Niu-Cooper, Ph.D.
[email protected]
(616) 331-6669

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Scholarships

Grand Valley State University offers a wide variety of merit-based scholarships. For information on all of the scholarships that are available to students, please visit Scholarships at GVSU.

Grand Valley offers myScholarships (a scholarship matching tool) to help admitted students match with GVSU scholarships, as well as external scholarship opportunities. myScholarships will prompt you to answer questions to help match you to scholarships for which you might qualify.

Curriculum Tailored To Diverse Classroom Needs

The program is customized to meet the needs of schools, districts, English learners, and families, with courses designed to help educators address their own classroom contexts. This tailoring is a distinctive program promise.

Student Organizations

Getting involved and staying engaged with our vibrant campus community help you make the most of your Grand Valley experience. Attending student life events, joining a student organization, or participating in campus recreation opportunities are all fantastic ways to maximize your college years:

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Page last modified June 11, 2026
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