/ Academics/ Teacher Education/MAT with ESOL Endorsement/FAQs

FAQs: MAT with ESOL Endorsement

Do you offer an alternative program for non-traditional students, i.e., long-distance via internet, low-residency, etc.?

We offer selected ESOL courses through distance education formats
When am I eligible for the ESOL endorsement?

You are eligible to apply to the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission (TSPC) for the ESOL Endorsement once you have successfully completed all program requirements including the required coursework, the ESOL practicum, and required tests. For most students in the MAT with ESOL program, this will be in late August of your second summer, as you finish your MAT program. Instructions for how to begin the application process are available at: http://www.lclark.edu/graduate/career_and_licensing/k-12/licenses_endorsements/TSPC_for_teachers/
What is the Bilingual Specialization? How do I get one?

Effective January 1, 2016, all Oregon TSPC-licensed educators will be eligible to add an optional bilingual specialization to their license. Contact TSPC for details.
In what grades can I teach ESOL with the endorsement?

The ESOL endorsement will be issued by the Oregon Teacher Standards and Practices Commission for grades PK-12.
When do I complete the ESOL practicum? How is it different from the regular student teaching experience?

The only difference in student teaching for students in the MAT. with ESOL program is that students will be required to complete 45 (rather than 75) hours in the second-level classroom. Students will then also complete an ESOL practicum in the building.
Are any tests required to earn the ESOL endorsement?

Yes. Up-to-date test requirements are listed in the ESOL Endorsement program of study in the academic catalog.
What if I change my mind? Can I opt out of the MAT with ESOL program?

Yes. You can decide to opt out of the ESOL Endorsement at any point during the program by completing a change of program form, which you can obtain from the graduate Admissions office. If you opt out, you will be moved to the regular 40-semester-hour MAT program. Your transcript will reflect any additional ESOL courses you have taken up to that point. You can choose to complete a standalone ESOL Endorsement at a later point, and will be able to apply any required ESOL coursework you have already taken. You can stay in your current placement or follow your MAT program handbook procedure for a change of placement.
Is the program eligible for financial aid?

Yes, financial aid is available for any degree program. For details, see the Financial Aid website.
Can I switch into the MAT with ESOL Endorsement program after I have started the regular MAT program?

No. If you are not admitted to the MAT with ESOL Endorsement program before starting coursework, you cannot switch in. However, you will still be able to add an ESOL Endorsement separately if you wish (see ESOL Endorsement Track II program of study in the course catalog).
What are the major differences between the regular MAT program and the MAT with ESOL Endorsement program?

The MAT with ESOL Endorsement program requires 8 additional semester hours of coursework in ESOL topics. All students in MAT programs take four semester hours of ESOL coursework. Those pursuing the ESOL Endorsement take two additional classes during the first summer (ESOL 507/607) and the second summer (ESOL 500/600), as well as an ESOL practicum (ESOL 605) which is taken during the fall and spring semesters simultaneously with the regular student teaching field experience.