English for Speakers of Other Languages Micro-Credential

Today’s schools and communities are increasingly multilingual, creating a growing need for professionals who can effectively support English learners. The ESOL Microcredential equips educators and other education professionals with research-based knowledge and practical strategies to support multilingual learners through culturally and linguistically responsive instruction. You’ll develop the skills to create inclusive learning environments, implement effective instructional practices, and promote the academic success and English language development of multilingual students.

Program Structure & Requirements

• Credit Hours: 6 credit hours total
• Delivery: Online
• Transcript Recognition: Micro-credentials are officially badged and recorded on the student’s academic transcript.
• Coursework Focus: Covers second language acquisition, teaching methods, and linguistics tailored for educators. A grade of “C” or better must be achieved on all required courses.

Coursework (6 credits)

This micro-credential provides foundational preparation for educators and other professionals who work with multilingual learners. The two-course sequence offers practical, evidence-based strategies that can be immediately applied in schools and other educational settings.

• ESOL 325 or EH 320 – Theoretical Foundations of Language Acquisition (3) or Multicultural Linguistics and Grammar (3)
• ESOL 463 –TESOL Methods for Young English Learners (3)

Skills You’ll Gain

The practical skills you will develop through this micro-credential will prepare you to better support multilingual learners and strengthen your professional practice.

• Second language acquisition and language development
• Evidence-based instructional strategies for English learners
• Lesson planning that integrates language and content objectives
• Differentiated instruction and instructional scaffolding
• Culturally and linguistically responsive teaching practices

Earning your digital badge

Once you complete all classes in this microcredential, you will receive a digital badge from Athens State University. You can add the digital badge to your résumé and on LinkedIn or other social media profiles. It provides employers with proof of the skills and discipline-specific knowledge you gained from the microcredential. Athens State’s digital badges are issued by Territorium, a digital credential badging system.