Schools need teachers prepared to educate linguistically diverse students. Students enrolled in initial licensure programs in the School of Education may also pursue the ESL endorsement, which will result a dual endorsement.

The ESL endorsement is not a stand-alone degree program, nor is it open to non-degree seeking students. However, the ESL option is open to School of Education students and Modern Languages and Literature students who plan to apply to the 5-Year Bachelor’s to Master’s Degree option in Education or the graduate program in Curriculum and Instruction at William and Mary.

Students must complete and have approved an ESL Program of Studies in the School of Education and must complete 150 clock hours of field experiences with ESL students. Field experiences are fulfilled as part of formal practica and student teaching experiences in elementary, secondary, or special education or through other experiences in settings approved by ESL program faculty.