The University of Maine at Farmington’s English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Certificate is specifically designed to prepare teachers to work with Maine’s growing population of English language learners.
As Maine’s demographic landscape changes, serving the needs of a culturally and linguistically diverse population is a key element in the professional preparation of future educators. In Maine, as well as in other states, there is a growing demand for teachers with a deeper understanding of diversity in the classroom setting.
UMF’s 16-credit English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) ertificate enriches your knowledge and skills regarding English language learners and their families. While all UMF teacher education graduates are prepared to work with all learners and their families, the coursework included in the English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) broadens your understanding and strengthens your experience in this area.
Not a major, not a minor, the new 16-credit English Language Learner Certificate is open to UMF students in teacher education programs.
The English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) enhances your primary endorsement in Early Childhood Education (K-3), Elementary Education, Secondary/Middle Education, or Special Education through courses designed to show you how to modify learning environments that support the diversity of linguistic, cultural, and social experiences that all students bring to the classroom.
Upon successful completion of the English Language Learners Certificate and the required Praxis II exam, you may apply to the state of Maine for the English as a Second Language Teacher Endorsement (660).
Field Experience
In addition to your on-campus coursework, an in-the-field practicum or student teaching experience in a classroom / school serving English language learners is expected.
Farmington Education grads get hired.
According to a 2020 survey of UMF Education graduates over the past three years, 83% of respondents indicated being employed in the field of education, with 85% hired within a year of graduation — 73% of them employed just four months after graduating.

Overall, 94.3% of respondents indicated they were Very Satisfied or Satisfied with their teacher education preparation at UMF.
Got questions? Ask a professor in this programContact Us
Office of Admissions
University of Maine at Farmington
246 Main Street
Farmington, Maine USA 04938-1994
tel 207-778-7050
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