PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES
The TESL Certificate program is designed to equip participants with intensive, graduate level training in the biblical perspectives, practical skills and cultural insights needed for effectively teaching English as a second language in a cross-cultural setting. The purpose of this program is to augment a bachelors or masters degree with specialized training for an effective gospel ministry using a need meeting tool.

TARGET GROUP
This program offers training appropriate for tentmaking missionaries to creative access countries, church planters or pastors reaching out to non-English speakers, or Christian workers seeking an effective ministry tool for use at home or abroad. It is designed to augment previous ministry training and experience. This program can stand alone or be combined with an IGSL degree program to form a TESL major/emphasis: MACL-TESL; MACL-ICS/TESL; or M.Div.-ICS/TESL.

DESCRIPTION
This 24-credit program blends Masters level classes in educational philosophy. English teaching methods, cross-cultural adaptation/communication/evangelism, and world missions. The program incorporates classroom study, library research, teaching laboratory evaluation, hands-on field work, and supervised teaching experience. Students participate in two IGSL Ministry Weeks and weekly small group fellowships (Iron Sharpening Groups).

ADMISSIONS
The program is open to those holding a Bachelor’s degree. All applicants are also required to achieve an 85% on the IGSL English proficiency test. Applicants are further asked to submit materials related to their Christian experience, personal ministry experience, and character references. Applicants will be screened through an oral interview with the TESL admissions committee. A background of study and experience in education is recommended but not required.

CORE VALUES
Although the TESL Certificate Program is shorter and does not conclude with a degree, the training values of IGSL are evident in the design of this program. Three elements of learning are combined. Academic classroom instruction (formal education) is combined with hands-on, mentored, field experience (non-formal education) in both English teaching and evangelism. To this we add the relational support and spiritual encouragement (informal education) of a weekly small group fellowship (Iron Sharpening Groups, Prov. 27:17). This learning environment is designed for life and character transformation as well as skills development. We believe all Christian ministry should be an overflow of a vital relationship with God.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS
Twenty-four (24) credits will be offered over three terms (10 weeks) comprising a one-school-year program. Courses listed below for 2 credits are five-week classes. If necessary, students may pursue the Certificate over two years by taking the English teaching classes one year and the Cross-Cultural Ministry classes another year.

GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

• Completion of the 24 credit units.
• Approval of the candidate for the degree by the Graduation Committee.
• Full payment of all accounts.

How to Apply