Graduate Certificate in Teaching English Language Learners (CTELL)
Expand your teaching opportunities and empower English language learners through CU Denver's CTELL certificate.
CU Denver’s CTELL Graduate Certificate is designed to prepare educators to effectively teach English as a second language to adults. This fully online program provides the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to create engaging learning environments for English learners.
- Build a strong foundation in second language acquisition, writing, and communication.
- Perfect for native English speakers planning to teach abroad or international students preparing to teach English in their home countries.
- Complete the program in one academic year, including the summer session.
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Degree LevelGraduate Certificate -
School & CollegeCollege of Liberal Arts and Sciences -
Total Credit Hours12 -
Class Type100% Online -
Time CommitmentFull-Time or Part-Time -
Start Term(s)Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Overview
Upon successful completion of the program, CTELL participants will:
- Discuss the theoretical basis of second language instruction
- Demonstrate a variety of effective ESL teaching techniques
- Explain, in pedagogically relevant ways, the linguistic structures of the English language
Prerequisites
All applicants must have a bachelor’s degree or the equivalent, with a 3.0 GPA, to be accepted into the program. Graduate students at CU Denver are also permitted to apply for the certificate while they are concurrently completing another graduate degree. Permission may not be granted to graduate students in the applied linguistics option of the Master of Arts in English program.
Non-native English speakers are required to submit an official TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) report showing a score of at least 580. Those who score below 580 but above 525 on the TOEFL may be admitted conditionally to the program. Under these conditions, students will have their English language skills assessed by the faculty of the program immediately after they arrive on campus to determine whether additional courses are needed to develop English language proficiency. After assessment, the students may be assigned to full-time language study in an intensive English program, permitted to take graduate-level classes on a conditional basis along with further designated language study, or permitted to begin graduate study without further restrictions.
Tuition Breakdown
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $506* per credit | $607** per credit |
*See Undergraduate Student Tuition and Fees page for undergraduate tuition disclaimer.
**Out-of-state students may qualify for discounted tuition through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.
Required Courses
The CTELL certificate requires 12 credit hours of coursework:
Language Theory (ENGL 5171)
Introduces linguistic theory for graduate students, expanding on undergrad material with a focus on writing instruction and graduate language studies.
Second Language Writing (ENGL 5651)
Covers first and second language writing, composition and revision, teacher feedback, student response, writing assessment, and the reading-writing connection.
Principles and Practices of Second Language Acquisition (ENGL 5601)
Overview of basic principles and practices in the learning and teaching of English as a second language.
Elective Options (choose one):
- ENGL 5093: Teaching of Writing
- Special Topics (e.g., ENGL 5190: Cross-Cultural Communication)
- Internship approved by the program advisor
Career Outlook
What is the projected salary of an individual teaching English Language Learners?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, adult basic and secondary education and ESL Teachers earned an annual median salary of $60,560 and postsecondary teachers earned an annual median salary of $84,380 in 2023.
What can I do with a graduate Certificate in Teaching English Language Learners (CTELL)?
With the increasing diversity of student populations, schools and organizations need professionals equipped with the skills to support multilingual learners in achieving academic success and building strong language foundations.
Earning a Certificate in Teaching English Language Learners (CTELL) positions you as a leader in inclusive and effective education practices. You’ll gain the expertise needed to meet the unique challenges and opportunities in this rewarding field, whether you’re looking to enhance your current teaching role or pursue new career opportunities.
Admissions
Admission requirements and deadlines vary based on program. In addition, you will have different requirements depending on if you are a first-time student, a transfer student, or an international student.
Learn more about the admissions process by filling out the form above or contacting an Enrollment Navigator today.
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA required.
- Non-native English speakers must submit TOEFL scores (minimum 580 for full admission, conditional admission available for scores between 525–579).
Tuition & Financial Aid
Investing in your future is a big decision. However, becoming a fully online student at CU Denver is a high-quality and affordable option for learners of all types. Tuition and fees are based largely on the degree program you enroll in.
Tuition is determined based on which CU Denver program is chosen, undergraduate or graduate level, and your resident status. Financial aid and scholarships are available for those who qualify.
Experience flexible, career-focused programs with CU Denver’s renowned quality—100% online—taught by expert faculty in engaging courses within a supportive community, all at an affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available.
Flexible, career-focused programs with the same CU Denver quality—100% online.
Expert faculty, engaging courses, and a supportive online community.
Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships for online students.
Take the Next Step
Ready to expand your teaching opportunities? Take the first step toward earning your online certificate by filling out the form above for more information or calling us at 303-860-5604.