Second Language Studies

Undergraduate Study: BA in interdisciplinary studies (English as a second language)

Academic Program

Formerly called the Department of English as a Second Language, the faculty and course work in the Department of Second Language Studies (SLS) have evolved toward a wider view of the sudy of second- and foreign-language learning and teaching in general. The department’s programs train students for professional careers in second-/foreign-language education, which includes teaching, teacher training, materials preparation, curriculum/syllabus design, language assessment, and research. Through course work and independent research, students acquire a broad knowledge base and familiarity with the conduct of research, as well as a sense of professionalism in second-language studies.

Employment opportunities in this field have been expanding rapidly, both nationally and internationally, in all types of educational and occupational institutions (e.g., elementary, secondary, and tertiary levels; publishing; test development for international agencies; language-training programs for businesses).

The department, whose MA program dates back to 1961, is frequently referred to as the best such program in the world. It includes a wide range of general and specialized courses. It has the largest faculty with specialization in second-language studies of any institution in the world. Its faculty members are well respected nationally and internationally through their involvement in scholarly research and publishing projects, including editorship of books or editorial advisory status on major journals, as well as extensive authorship of journal articles and books. The department enjoys advanced technical support facilities and excellent library resources. It attracts top-quality students and maintains a variety of services and activities that stimulate a high level of student satisfaction and collaboration, including post-graduation employment advice and assistance.

Declaring Your Major

The Department of Second Language Studies offers a bachelor’s degree in ESL in concert with the Interdisciplinary Studies Program. Interdisciplinary Studies is a special program that allows qualified undergraduate students to design their own majors (either in fields of study that do not offer baccalaureate degrees, or in areas of study tailored to the individual student’s interests and needs). Similar majors can be designed involving other second languages, as well (such as Teaching Korean and English as Second Languages or Teaching Japanese and English as Second Languages).

Click here for information on applying to the Interdisciplinary Studies Program.

Created by Lynne Higa, Michael Kirk-Kuwaye

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