Specialization in Teaching English to the Young Learner (TEYL)

Classes:
 
 Three required core courses:

• TEYL Classroom Management (3 units)

Focus on establishing the optimal classroom learning environment for foreign language acquisition in the young learner classroom in this TEFL certificate course. You will learn to use key teaching strategies and reflective teaching techniques to foster positive classroom dynamics that motivate young language learners socially and emotionally. This class also involves an on-site visit to a local elementary school, when possible.  

• Teaching Young English Learners in Primary Grades (Ages 4-7) (3 units)

• Teaching English to Intermediate Young Learners (Ages 8-11) (3 units)

• Electives (3 units) Choose from the available electives each quarter.

• Monday - Friday, occasional Saturdays
• Daytime and evening courses
• Schedule varies

Enrollment in the TEYL specialization is only available to those who are already enrolled in another full-time TEFL program. Students can only complete the TEYL specialization if they will study in TEFL programs for 6 months or more. Please view the full-time program webpages for admission requirements.  

• TEFL Professional Certificate 
• TEFL Proficiency  
• Advanced Studies in TEFL 

Age: 18+ 
 
Language Proficiency Requirement: 

• TOEFL iBT: 79

• IELTS: 6.5

• B2 First (Cambridge English: First-FCE): B2/C1

• C1 Advanced (Cambridge English Advanced-CAE):180-C1 and C2 Proficiency (Cambridge English Proficiency-CPE): 180-C1

• Duolingo English Test (DET): 110

• Pearson Test of English (PTE): 58

• TOEIC (all four subjects are required):

  • Listening: 445 

  • Reading: 420 

  • Speaking: 170

  • Writing: 165

• ELI level (8-week programs): 7 or higher

For questions regarding alternative English proficiency exams, please email ipadmission@ucsd.edu.

All enrolled students are required to complete an online pre-arrival orientation before starting the specialization in Teaching English to the Young Learner (TEYL). 

2024 Dates:

• January 3 - March 15
• March 27 - June 7
• June 26 - September 6
• October 2 - December 13

2025 Dates:

• January 2 - March 14
• March 24 - June 6
• June 18 - September 5
• October 1 - December 12

2024/2025 Prices: 

• TEYL Program Fee: $95 (non-refundable)
• It is possible to take some of the TEYL classes as part of your full-time TEFL Program. Additional classes cost $500 each. The Program Advisor will assist you with creating an academic plan during the program orientation.
• Books/Materials: Approximately $200-$800 per quarter (Payment for all books and instructional materials CANNOT be made in advance and are to be purchased upon arrival at UC San Diego.)

For all 2025 program dates and prices, visit the Dates and Prices page or download the 2025 Dates & Prices document. This document also lists the financial verification required for your program application if you need the Form I-20 for a student visa.