Skip to content

Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)

Showing program information for start dates between
Program Code: 09841
Credential: Ontario Graduate Certificate
Start Dates: September
Program Length: 2 semesters
Learning
Outcomes:
View All

Humber is proud to have the highest graduate employment and employer satisfaction rate of the GTA colleges based on Colleges Ontario’s key performance indicators for college graduates in 2022-2023.

Program Overview

Humber’s Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) graduate certificate program builds confident and knowledgeable teachers who develop a full understanding of best practices in teaching English as a second language (ESL). Our innovative curriculum is based on the latest ESL teaching approaches, methods and assessment systems including the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) and the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR). You will be exposed to a wide range of theoretical issues including adult second language acquisition, learning theories, linguistics, the emerging field of teaching with technology, and portfolio-based language assessment (PBLA). More importantly, you will have the opportunity to immediately apply this learning through classroom observations and practice teaching. 

Faculty members are highly respected, dedicated professionals with graduate credentials in the field and bring extensive ESL teaching and teacher training experience. 

Courses Open "Courses" to view individual course delivery modes.

Courses

At Humber, courses are delivered in a variety of formats:

In-Person - An in-person course is delivered fully on campus.

Online Asynchronous (A) - An online asynchronous course has no fixed class schedule and allows students to engage with the course at different times according to their needs. Faculty provide modules, which are completed independently by the students according to established deadlines.

Online Synchronous (S) - An online synchronous course is delivered fully online and requires faculty and students to participate in real-time according to a fixed schedule. Classes are scheduled for a specific day and time.

Hybrid - A hybrid course is a combination of in-person and online classes and follows a set schedule. Students must be available to attend in-person classes at scheduled times during the semester.

The chart below outlines the delivery options available for each course in this program, by campus. For some academic terms, there may be more than one delivery option available. You’ll be able to select your preferred options when building your course schedule during open enrolment. Preferences for course delivery will be considered on a first come, first served basis. Some Humber programs are also delivered fully online, where all courses are delivered online.

International students: the impact of studying from outside of Canada on Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility differs significantly based on when you start your program. Please review the PGWP eligibility before choosing your program and course delivery.

Course code and Name Delivery Type by Location
Course Code Course Name North Lakeshore IGS DL/Online
Semester 1
TESL 5001 The Adult ESL Learner N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5002 Introduction to Language 1 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5003 Methodology 1 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5004 Pedagogical Grammar 1 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5005 The ESL Classroom 1 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5006 Field Experience 1 - Teaching English as a Second Language N/A In-Person
TBD
N/A N/A
Semester 2
TESL 5012 Introduction to Language 2 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5013 Methodology 2 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5014 Pedagogical Grammar 2 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5015 The ESL Classroom 2 N/A In-Person N/A N/A
TESL 5016 Field Experience 2 - Teaching English as a Second Language N/A In-Person
TBD
N/A N/A
TESL 5020 Teaching with Technology N/A Online (A) N/A N/A

Work-Integrated Learning  

Students will complete a 50-hour . Unlike many other institutions, our field experience is fully arranged and supervised, giving student-teachers the time to focus on their learning and preparation. Students fulfill their requirements in a variety of settings which may include:

  • adult ESL and Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) classes in the GTHA School Board and community agencies
  • global field experience at partner institutions
  • Humber’s English for Academic Purposes program
  • Humber’s Continuous Professional Learning (CPL) department, enhanced language training (ELT)-related programs

The Humber Advantage

Work integrated learning in the form of a teaching practicum is central to the successful development of TESL professionals. The TESL practicum will give you hands-on experience in a variety of classroom settings, and will help build the foundation for your future teaching careers. This is your opportunity to apply the concepts, knowledge, and practical skills from the classroom to the workplace. During the practicum you will also acquire teaching techniques and develop professionalism from experienced Mentor Teachers.

Takuya Ogino, Humber TESL Graduate

"I took advantage of many opportunities provided by Humber while I was a student, dedicating myself to absorb as much knowledge from the program as possible. This included observation of LINC and Humber EAP classes, classroom micro-teaching, and teaching experiences. This helped me grow my teaching style as well as helped me confirm that teaching English is my true passion."

– Takuya Ogino, Humber TESL Graduate (2018)
Current job: English Teacher

Cathy Wang, Humber TESL Graduate

"The best part of the program is the experience to learn from very professional and encouraging teachers. They always motivated me and help with my self-esteem and any doubts. The teaching strategies and methodology allowed me to participate and gain confidence. I believe the teachers' support is the reason why I have been able to find a great job for my career."

– Cathy Wang, Humber TESL Graduate
Current job: English Teacher

Morgan Cogswell

In this video, Morgan Cogswell, a graduate of the Graduate Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), shares her experience studying and taking the practicum in the program.

Your Career

Today, approximately one billion people worldwide are learning English and by 2030, half of the world’s population is expected to speak English. Teach ESL in adult ESL programs in school boards, colleges and universities, and government-sponsored agencies across Ontario, as well as in private schools and academic institutions around the world teaching English as a foreign language. Career opportunities also include workplace ESL, academic ESL and ESL program administration in the public and private sectors.  

In addition, each summer, select graduates are hired as ESL teaching interns in Humber’s highly regarded and dynamic international summer language program under the guidance of a mentor faculty member.  

Professional Accreditations & Recognition

TESL Canada (Standard II) and TESL Ontario

This program is recognized by TESL Canada and TESL Ontario as an accredited program. Qualified students have the opportunity to apply for professional teacher accreditation with TESL Canada and TESL Ontario. 

Additional requirements may apply.

Note: The requirements for the additional credential(s) are determined by the granting body, which is independent from the College. Students are encouraged to obtain the specific requirements directly from the granting body before enrolling.

Program Availability

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Condensed Week Lakeshore Open
Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Condensed Week Lakeshore Open

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students in Canada who apply for May 2024 start could be eligible for a $1,000 Scholarship*. Apply now

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Condensed Week Lakeshore Open

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students Out of Canada can Apply through Humber International

Recruitment Events

Open House   Book a Tour  

Can't make it to campus?

Experience Humber Virtually  

TESL Graduate Certificate Program Video

two students taking notes

Watch the video to learn about the benefits of the Teaching English as a Second Language Graduate Certificate program at Humber through the experience of faculty and students.


News Feed

Building The Foundation: Humber College Helps Students Find Their Way Into Post-Secondary Education

Building The Foundation: Humber College Helps Students Find Their Way Into Post-Secondary Education

The need for pathway programs has been highlighted by the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on workforce opportunities.

Read More
Top 10 Reasons to Choose a Humber College Pathways Program

Top 10 Reasons to Choose a Humber College Pathways Program

Associate Dean of Pathways and graduate, Cameron Farrar, share their top 10 reasons to choose one of the Arts and Science Pathways programs.

Read More

No news at this time.

Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

Contact Us

Admissions Questions

General Enquiries

Call 416-675-3111 or email enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Irene Kosmas, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 79116
ELC@humber.ca

Campus Information

Book a campus tour to take a closer look at what it's like to be a student at Humber.

Want More Info?

Find out more about the student experience and everything that Humber has to offer Future Students.

for more info on Humber, including programs, special events and more!

How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an Apprentice

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP 

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Need Advice?

Program Advising Appointments

Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

Transfer & Pathway Advising

Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following two requirements:

  • Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

    • A bachelor’s degree
    • Non-native speakers of English applying to TESL should have a IELTS score of an overall minimum of 6.5 with no single test score below 6.0; a minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 88 or above with a minimum of 22 in Reading and Listening, Speaking and Writing; and strong communication skills (see TESL Ontario teacher accreditation at teslontario.org for their specific requirements)

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

Police Record Check

Students in the program are required to undergo a Police Record Check if they are involved in programs or occupations involving direct contact with vulnerable persons. Successful completion of the work placement is a requirement for graduation. Agencies that provide placement opportunities require you to have a clear Police Record Check. Your acceptance for placement is at the discretion of the agency. If you register in the program without a clear Police Record Check and, as a result, are unable to participate in the placement, you will not be able to graduate. The Police Record Check may have to be renewed every three to six months thereafter.

Equipment & Device Requirements

Semester 1, 2

Details and Specifications Minimum Specs Recommended Specs
Processor Intel i5 Intel i7 (Quad 4 or higher)
OS Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)
Windows 10 (PC)
OS 10.15 (Mac)
Memory 8GB of RAM Expandable to 16 GB
Storage 250 GB storage space Solid State Drive (SSD) preferable
Monitor Minimum 13 inch screen 15 inch screen
Other USB3 ports, Wireless 802.11 b/g/n/ac Built-in Ethernet port and a USBc port

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Irene Kosmas, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 79116
ELC@humber.ca

Fees & Financial Aid

The 2024/2025 fee for two semesters is:

  • domestic: $6,076.58
  • international: $18,745.84

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees International Fees

Additional Costs

Approximately $300 - textbooks.

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources.

Scholarships

Humber Scholarships

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships. International students can visit International Student Scholarships.

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

  • Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
  • Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.
View Pathways Into This Program  
View Transfer Out Opportunities From This Program  
loading gif