We CU Educating at Centenary University!
English as a Second Language Certification
Prepare to support multilingual learners through culturally responsive and evidence-based language instruction.
Advance your career!
… by earning your K-12 ESL Teacher Certification (NJDOE approved) and learn how to provide the most supportive instruction to our growing population of Multilingual Learners of English (MLE).
This five-class sequence enhances your classroom practice and furthers your scholarship as you explore the most contemporary, research-based teaching techniques and strategies to support language and literacy development in the kindergarten through 12th grade setting.
This certification program hosts engaging synchronous and asynchronous online classes that are taught by experts in the field of language and literacy learning. Educators are excited to be able to use ideas from classes the very next day.
About the Centenary University ESL Endorsement Program
Centenary University is approved by the New Jersey Department of Education enabling you to become a certified ESL teacher in kindergarten through 12th grade (NJ Endorsement Code #1475).
If you are pursuing your Master of Education in Literacy Instruction, your ESL credits can be applied toward your degree.
The program adheres to the most current research and is aligned with the global standards of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and the ILA (International Literacy Association).
Candidates will
- Develop an understanding by applying theory/research to in-service training and coordination of instruction for students or groups of students who are Multilingual Learners of English (MLE).
- Learn the skills necessary to be able to utilize and recommend methods and materials to be used in the school district’s program and contribute to the evaluation of student progress and school policies.
- Advocate for Multilingual Learners of English (MLE) in the school setting and their communities and create culturally inclusive learning spaces.
Designed for educators working full-time
We understand the demands on your time as a working professional. That is why we offer plenty of support and a program that makes it easy to balance your obligations. This online program is offered in a blended format of alternating weeks that are synchronous, meeting with your class remotely, and asynchronous, working on your own.
Who should earn this credential?
- Teachers in early education, elementary school, middle school, or high school
- Support staff and consultants who hold their CEAS or Standard Certificate
- Administrators at all levels
Your Future
Academic Advancement:
Next steps include Additional NJ endorsements, MA/MEd, ESL/bilingual education, special education, literacy, supervisor certification, or educational leadership pathway.
Career Pathways:
ESL Teacher, Bilingual Educator, Language Specialist
Industry Outlook:
High demand for ESL educators due to increasing numbers of non-native English speakers in schools and workplaces.
Regional employers include
New Jersey public school districts; Newark Public Schools; Jersey City Public Schools; Paterson Public Schools; Elizabeth Public Schools; KIPP/North Star; Uncommon Schools; private schools; county education offices.
Salary Outlook:
$50,000 – $80,000
Getting Started
For New Jersey entry-level roles aligned to English as a Second Language (ESL) Endorsement, a reasonable starting range is approximately $55,000–$70,000, depending on role, licensure/certification, employer type, and prior experience.
Early Career and Progression
Approx. $78,000 midpoint at about five years, with higher earnings in specialized, licensed, technical, supervisory, or high-demand settings.
Approx. $90,000 average or attainable mid-career benchmark around ten years, especially for advanced credentials, management responsibility, or specialized practice.
*Salary and Outlook Data