TESOL Diploma Program

The Diploma Program is an intensive, six-week summer professional training program designed for teachers and prospective teachers of TESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages). The program covers all essential aspects of English language teaching from a practical classroom perspective. It offers concrete experience with methods and techinques that reflect the current principles of Communicative Language Teaching and Learning.  diploma

The faculty members selected to teach in the Diploma Program are professionals with advanced degrees in TESOL or applied linguistics and with years of experience in English language teaching and teacher training.

The full Diploma Program is six weeks, and is divided into two consecutive parts:

-An Introduction to TESOL Methodology; and,
-Teaching the English Language.

Classes meet daily, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. 

This program is ideal for new entrants to the TESOL field and working teachers who wish to gain a professional qualification or to update their methodology.  Graduates of the program have obtained jobs as a teachers in language institutes in the U.S. and overseas, as teacher trainers for the U.S. Peace Corps, and as ESOL teachers in secondary schools or universities abroad.

Course Structure

Part I: Introduction to TESOL Methodology

This course introduces the major methodological principles of English language teaching through instruction, demonstration and peer teaching.

  • Overview of Language Teaching Methods
  • The Language Learning Process
  • Principles of Communicative Language Teaching
  • Lesson Planning
  • Teaching Grammar

Part II: Teaching the English Language

This part of the program is designed to explore in greater depth the major areas of English language teaching. 

  • Teaching and Assessment of Integrated Skills: Listening, Speaking, Reading & Writing
  • Lesson Planning and Management
  • Integrated Teaching Practicum

Saint Michael's is an International Campus in Vermont

Saint Michael's is a liberal arts college known for its international character and its commitment to social justice. Saint Michael's has been a leader in international education since it established the Applied Linguistics Program in 1954.

Diploma Program participants can expect to be in class all day, Monday through Friday. Outside of class, students can enjoy Vermont's beautiful summer. Known for its clean air and water, the Green Mountains, Lake Champlain, nature, and outdoor recreation, Vermont is a vibrant place to spend your summer. The Saint Michael's campus and surrounding area are safe.

Burlington, Vermont's largest city, is only minutes away. A busy and friendly urban center of 50,000 people, Burlington has four universities/colleges as well as numerous cultural activities, great shopping, and a wide variety of restaurants. Travel from anywhere in the world is easy with the Burlington and Montreal International airports nearby, and connections to and from Boston and New York.

Housing Information

Students who desire on-campus room and board must complete the Diploma Program Housing Form (to be posted no later than February 15, 2008).  When forms are received, housing is assigned and students are billed accordingly. Diploma Program students are housed in single rooms in residence halls. Residence halls are traditional dormitory-style complexes with rooms furnished with twin beds, desks with chairs, chests of drawers, and closet space. Two bathroom suites are located on each floor. Family housing is available, but does not include meals.

Students may move into assigned housing between 2:00pm and 4:00 p.m. on the day prior to the first class in which students are registered. Rooms are to be vacated by noon the day after the last class or exam. 

  • All facilities are non-smoking.
  • Air conditioning is not available or permitted.
  • Pets are not permitted.
  • Cafeteria meals are typical of those served in U.S. colleges and universities.

We also offer optional on-campus room and board:

  • Private room in the residence hall (includes meals)
  • Townhouse including meals *
  • Family Townhouse (does not include meals)*

    *Availability not guaranteed

Medical Insurance

Health insurance is required of all students in the Diploma Program and is included in the student's fees.

Application Process

The application deadline is May 1.

The application form for the Diploma Program in TESOL is easy to complete and requires no essay or interview. Applicants need not have completed a bachelor's degree for admission, although high school graduation is required.
The application must be supported by the following:

  • Evidence of highest educational level attained: transcript or copy of diploma
  • Two letters of recommendation from persons qualified to assess the applicant's academic and professional qualifications for the Diploma Program
  • Completed Affidavit of Financial Support (international students only)
  • Official TOEFL transcript (international students only - minimum score of 550 (213 computer-based, 80 Internet-based)
  • A recent photograph (optional)
  • Photocopy of passport page (international students only)

Job Placement Assistance

Upon completion of the program, students receive a formal letter reflecting the student's strengths in coursework, including their student teaching. This serves as a reference when applying for a teaching position.  Students may also use the job listings we post for positions available around the world.  Trainees who have finished the program are now working in Asia, Europe, and Latin America.

For more information please contact:

Deni Bergne:
Phone: 802.654.2684
Fax: 802.654.2595
Email: dbergne@smcvt.edu

Tuition

Tuition for the 2008 6-week program is $2,756.

 

Fees for Diploma Program (pdf - print out)

Diploma Application 2008 (pdf - print out)

Diploma Program Housing Form 2008 (pdf - print out)