English as a Second Language

minor

Academics / Departments & Programs / Education / Academics / English as a Second Language—Education Minor

English as a Second Language

Degree Overview

As you explore this minor, consider that the population of English language learners is growing rapidly in the United States and ESL teachers are in high demand.

With a minor in this growing field, you'll be equipped to reach students in your classroom who are learning English. At the same time, you'll gain valuable cross-cultural experiences that will position you well in your field.

Program Distinctives

 
Easy to add - With only 20 credits required, you can combine the ESL minor with a number of other majors or minors.
 
Student teaching - Experience is a critical part of Calvin's education program. Gain field experience as a Calvin ESL minor and discover what you love about teaching.
 
Local ESL programs - In Grand Rapids, one in seven people don't speak English, so many of the local schools have ESL programs. Start crossing barriers as a student teacher.
 
High certification rates - Calvin's education department prepares you for the future. Our graduates have a 93 percent pass rate on the teacher certification exam—one of the highest in the state.

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Degree Information

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  • Other Details

    The ESL education minor must be combined with one of the following majors: biology, chemistry, Chinese, earth/space, elementary education, English, French, German, history, integrated science, language arts, mathematics, physics, social studies, or Spanish. Previously certified teachers seeking an additional endorsement in ESL must also possess an endorsement in one of these content areas.

    Secondary candidates should consider the English major in addition to the ESL minor.

    If the ESL minor is combined with the language arts minor, ENGL 370, 372, and 375 may not overlap. Select other courses from the language arts minor options.

    If the ESL minor is combined with the language arts major, two overlaps are permitted (ENGL 372 and 375).

    If the ESL minor is combined with the Spanish minor, SPAN 340 may not overlap. ENGL 370 will need to be completed in addition. IDIS 356 or 357 may overlap.

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Abraham Ceballos-Zapata

Boost an elementary education major

Make a difference in a child's life. Pair your English as a second language minor with an elementary education major.

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Study the words that surround us. Get a deeper understanding of the English language—and enhance your ESL minor—with a Calvin linguistics major.

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