TESL DIPLOMA
Teacher of English as a Second Language certification program recognized by TESL Ontario and TESL Canada
Next full-time program begins September 8, 2025. Next part-time program begins September 16, 2025. Now accepting applications and registering.
This 300-hour TESL DIPLOMA program is for those looking to become an Ontario Certified English Language Teacher (OCELT) to teach English in Ontario, Canada, and worldwide and/or those seeking the TESL Canada Professional Standard Two Certification.
Academic Credential Issued Upon Completion: College Diploma in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
Government approved by: Ministry of Colleges and Universities
Professionally Accredited by: TESL Ontario and TESL Canada
Academic Credential Issued Upon Completion: College Diploma in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
Graduates of this program will have completed the TESL training requisite to obtain:
- College Diploma in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL Diploma)
- Ontario Certified English Language Teacher (OCELT) professional designation
- TESL Ontario Adult ESL Teacher Certificate of Accreditation
- TESL Ontario International Certificate in Teaching English as an Additional Language
- TESL Canada Professional Certification Standard Two
TESL Diploma Program Outline:
Theoretical Issues – 20 hours
Linguistics – 40 hours
Language Structure and Skills – 40 hours
TESL Methodology – 65 hours
Assessment – 20 hours
Teaching Skills – 65 hours
Practicum – 50 hours
Class Schedule:
Full-time program (4 months) – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday from 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Part-time program (8 months) – Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Start Dates:
The full-time program has January, May, and September start dates.
The part-time program has September program start dates only.
Program Tuition Fee:
Effective for programs starting in September 2025, the tuition fee for this program is $4,200 for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. For non-residents, foreign/international students, and visitors to Canada the tuition fee is $6,000.
*Tuition fees may be paid on an interest-free monthly payment plan and include all program materials.
Mode of Delivery:
This program is currently being offered synchronous online.
About the Online Program:
The online version of our well-known TESL Diploma program is no different from our on-site program in terms of content, assessment, faculty, and quality. The classes are delivered in synchronous format, real time, instructor-led, using Zoom, just like an on-site environment where you attend class, have classmates, lots of human interaction, and TESL Ontario accredited TESL Trainers. The online classes are also supported by Google Classrooms for the sharing of materials and resources where students and instructors can always connect 24/7.
Course Descriptions:
Theoretical Issues – 20 hours
This course examines the principles and theories of second language acquisition and adult education as well as the linguistic, psychological, and socio-cultural factors that affect adult language acquisition. Topics include: First and Second Language Acquisition, Issues in Language Learning, Principles of Adult Education, Factors Affecting Adult Learning, Learning Styles, Models of Communicative Competence, Intercultural Communication and Diversity.
Linguistics – 40 hours
This course introduces the foundations in linguistics and examines the linguistic systems of the English language. Topics include: Sociolinguistics, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics, Pragmatics, Discourse, Phonetics and Phonology.
Language Structure and Skills – 40 hours
This course explores the concepts, theory, and research in teaching the language skills. Topics include: Concepts, theory, and research in teaching grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening, speaking, reading, writing.
TESL Methodology – 65 hours
This course focuses on the dimensions and methodologies of TESL. Topics include: Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB), Communicative Approach, Task-based Instruction/ Approach, Language Skills- and Strategies-based Instruction/ Approach, Previous and Emergent Approaches, Adult ESL, Language Instruction to Newcomers to Canada (LINC), ESL for International Students, Academic English/English for Academic Purposes, Literacy, Classroom Teaching, Classroom Teaching with Technology, Technology & Digital Learning, EdTech Tools and Apps, Blended Teaching, Assessing Resources, Learning/Teaching and Educational Technology, Needs Analysis, Course/Syllabus Planning, Lesson Planning, and Designing Activities.
Assessment – 20 hours
This course explores the key concepts and principles of assessment, as well as different types and purposes of assessment and various ways of providing feedback. Topics include: portfolio based language assessment (PBLA), classroom based-assessment, feedback and error correction, placement and exit assessment, and consideration of standardized tests.
Teaching Skills – 65 hours
This course focuses on teaching techniques, skills, and strategies in TESL and teaching the skills. Topics include: Teaching Techniques and Skills, Classroom Management Skills, Teaching Aids and Resources, Language Learning Strategies, Individualization within Classes with Diverse Learner Types and Abilities, Intercultural Attitudes and Skills, Interactive Skills and Presence, Managing Multi-level Classes, Managing Continuous Intake Classes, Ongoing Action Research and Reflection, Supply Teaching Techniques, Teaching the Language Skills, Professional Conduct and Ethics, Best Practices, and Ongoing Professional Development.
Practicum – 50 hours
Guided Class Observation: 30 hours
Supervised Teaching Practice: 20 hours
The Practicum is arranged with the student and Practicum Supervisor at a collaborating host location as close to the student’s home as possible. The TESL practicum standards require that the practicum be completed in person within an adult ESL/LINC program and with an accredited Mentor Teacher. In some instances, the Mentor Teacher may also be teaching some online classes that could be included as part of the practicum at their discretion. No more than half of the required practicum hours (i.e., 15 hours of observation and 10 hours of supervised practice teaching) can be completed online. All online observation and online supervised practice teaching (if any) must be conducted synchronously.
Admission requirements:
Minimum 3-year bachelor degree in any discipline. For those in the process of completing a degree, or under special circumstances such as seeking the program to gain admission into a B.Ed program, an admission may be granted by signing a waiver. Applicants must be fluent in English. Those whose first language is not English must provide acceptable proof of language proficiency.
To apply for this program click here to download the application form or contact us to request an application form be sent to your email.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the OCELT designation?
A: OCELT is the professional designation for Ontario Certified English Language Teachers. It is the registered professional designation for all TESL Ontario accredited members in good standing. Ontario Certified English Language Teachers use the OCELT professional designation on their resume, business cards, books and papers authored by them, email signatures, presentations, professional profiles, in social media and more. In order to use the OCELT professional designation individuals must obtain the TESL Ontario Accredited Language Instructor Certificate and be a member in good standing. The TESL Ontario Certificate of Accreditation has now become the industry norm in Ontario, and TESL Ontario certified teachers are being hired by both government-funded programs and private schools in Canada, and by international employers.
Q: Where can I be employed as a Teacher of English as a Second Language?
A: In Ontario and other parts of Canada, international students and newcomers to Canada attend English as a second language classes in colleges, universities, language schools, school board adult education programs, community centres, private tuition, government services and publicly funded programs such as LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada), OSLT (Occupation Specific Language Training), and ELT (Enhanced Language Training). There is also a growing demand for EAP (English for Academic Purposes), ATP (Academic Test Preparation) and ESP (English for Special Purposes) in the secondary and post-secondary education system in all of Canada. Also popular today is teaching English online and tutoring for those who want to step away from traditional classroom teaching. For those looking to teach and travel with the internationally recognized TESL Canada Certification and TESL Ontario International Certificate in Teaching English as an Additional Language the opportunities are endless. International teaching destinations for graduates of this program have included countries in Europe, Middle East, Asia, and South America.
Q: What is the difference between TESL and TESOL?
A: It is a well-known fact that TESL is the Canadian acronym, as in TESL Canada and TESL Ontario, and that TESOL is the American acronym, that originated with the emergence of TESOL USA. However, there is a difference other than geography and where these acronyms are more commonly used. TESL refers to the teaching of English as a second language in a country where English is an official language, such as Canada. In contrast, TESOL certification is more frequently associated with teaching English as a foreign language internationally in countries where English is not the national language. In Canada, TESL training/certification is preferred and often required for employment. When teaching and traveling, both the TESL and TESOL methodologies are widely accepted.
Q: What are CELTA and DELTA certificates/diplomas, and are they equivalent to TESL Diploma or OCELT?
A: CELTA is the Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (formerly called the Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults) by Cambridge, UK. It is well known as a British credential, but not recognized here in Canada as an equivalent. CELTA is only a 120-hour course; therefore, it is not an equivalent to the 300-hour OCELT accreditation program, a TESL Diploma. There are higher standards for teaching English in Canada and Ontario’s publicly funded ESL and LINC programs where OCELT is required, so obtaining a CELTA certificate will mean needing to upgrade in the Ontario TESL market to work in government funded programs. Some employers abroad have indicated that the TESL Diploma is deemed equivalent to the DELTA (the diploma upgrade of CELTA) in terms of the number of credit hours, which is also 300. A CELTA certificate may be considered equivalent to a TESL Canada standard one certificate program (120 hours) by employers or by TESL Canada. The TESL Diploma program is recognized as standard two, again a higher standard than CELTA (120 hrs) and more comparable to DELTA (300 hrs). With the OCELT designation TESL Ontario also grants the ICTEAL (International Certificate in Teaching English as an Additional Language); TESL Diploma graduates will often go by both the OCELT and ICTEAL professional designations. Please note: CELTA certificate and DELTA diploma holders may apply for a course credit towards the TESL Diploma program, since some of the topics overlap.
Q: Is the TESL Diploma tuition fee tax deductible?
A: Yes the program is government registered as post-secondary education for issuance of the T22OA tax receipt for the full amount of tuition paid.
Q: What are the standards for TESL Certification in Ontario?
A: The professional standard for TESL Ontario is a recognized program that equals or exceeds 300 HOURS covering all required TESL theory and methodology topics in accordance with TESL Ontario program standards and includes a 50-hour practicum (250 instructional hours and 50 hours practicum). Our TESL Diploma strictly adheres to this standard as well as the TESL Canada level Two for professional certification.
Q: How do I become a TESL Ontario Accredited Language Instructor and receive the TESL Ontario Certificate after completing this Diploma?
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Q: How long has the College been offering TESL training?
A: Canadian College of Educators has been delivering accredited TESL training over two decades (since 2001) and has over 2,000 TESL Certified graduates.
Q: Why choose this TESL Diploma program:
A:
- The College specializes in TESL certification, both provincially and nationally, to deliver a program of highest quality expertise.
- The program has a career focus as well and incorporates high demand “employability skills” for English language teachers in Ontario and Canada such as intensive training in Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLBs) and Portfolio Based Language Assessment (PBLA) taught by certified subject experts in CLB and PBLA..
- The College is well known by employers for successfully providing top-notch TESL training for more than 20 years.
- The program is a diploma program offering graduates a higher academic credential and competitive edge over certificate programs
- the program is recognized by both TESL Ontario and TESL Canada for provincial, national, and international certification; 3 certifications and OCELT designation in one program.
- there is no part one/part two, no time lapses or wait periods, no need to be upgrading or doing credit transfer, and no hidden costs; an all-in-one program complete in 15 weeks with part-time options as well to go at your own pace
- the College offers a variety of additional qualifications and professional development courses such as teaching IELTS, teaching TOEFL, teaching Online, teaching Business English, and TESL Ontario accredited Post-TESL Certificate Training (PTCT)
- tuition fees are tax-deductible
- tuition fees can be paid on an interest-free monthly payment plan
- the College employs only the highest quality of professionals and prides itself upon the quality of instruction above all things
Q: I have already completed a certificate-level TESL program. Can I get any credit towards the TESL Diploma or Advanced Standing?
A: Yes, but only with certificate-level programs that are recognized by TESL Canada for Professional Standard One or higher (TESL/TESOL/TEFL/CELTA program of at least 120 hours recognized by TESL Canada). For those who have already completed a TESL Canada Professional Standard One program the college can grant Advanced Standing (being exempt from the Teaching Skills course and receive credit for 20 hours of practicum towards the 50-hour practicum) to eligible candidates. This means that the 4 month diploma can then be completed in 3 months. A $750 tuition fee rebate is also applied. Official transcripts for the coursework and practicum must be provided to be granted advanced standing.
Q: What do graduates of the program say about the training and experience at the College?
Graduate Testimonials:
“I decided to study at the Canadian College of Educators after I looked at all the larger schools in the region. CCE’s world-class faculty and short, intensive TESL program convinced me that I’d get individualized instruction that fit my schedule and budget. Years later, the benefits are still paying off. I’m a regular contributor at two LINC schools and at a Career College, and my adult education credentials are valued by the local government I work for. Besides that, the faculty at CCE still pick up the phone when I call for advice. Whether it’s for businesses trying to improve their employees’ communication skills, or for prospective teachers looking for respected Adult Ed certifications, or for the students in my classes who need specialized help to score well on qualifying exams like TOEFL, CCE is the only place I refer them to! If you don’t check out this College for yourself, you’re missing out on a great opportunity.”
John Mlynarsky, LINC & College TESL Ontario Certified Instructor
“I came to Canada with the hope of continuing my life-long career of a teacher back home. My goal was to get a full-time teaching job in a college or university while making a new home in Canada. Two months after I graduated from CCE I reached that goal. I feel this is just the beginning and thank CCE, the administrators and teachers for helping me get the start I needed here.”
Jagrati Chauhan, English for Academic Purposes Instructor, York University
“I have to thank the College very much. This has made such a huge difference in my life. It has been such a long journey for me but so worth it. I have a fantastic bunch of students from eight countries and we have a great time. I am so happy!”
Dianne Coore, LINC Instructor, Microskills
“Graduating with a TESL Diploma was extremely satisfying, and I am ever so thankful that I chose Canadian College of Educators to complete my education. The course was very intense and more work than I could have imagined, but the part I remember most fondly is the great learning environment created by the teachers. The staff at Canadian College of Educators is truly exceptional. They are knowledgeable, dedicated and student focused. They were successful in modeling the caring, kind and effective learning environment that we too would strive to nurture in our future classrooms. I love my new job, it is the best thing I have ever done, and I couldn’t have done it without Canadian College of Educators.”
Laura Allen, LINC Instructor, Catholic Cross-Cultural Services LINC
As an experienced overseas English teacher, I needed TESL Ontario certification when I came back to Canada. I looked at all my options, and the Canadian College of Educators was my best bet for a faster and more convenient way to get properly certified. It is simply the quickest and most inexpensive way to get TESL Ontario and TESL Canada certification. The faculty is excellent! The teachers are friendly, and always took the time to answer my questions. Despite my extensive experience, there was a lot of value in the course. I learned about Canadian Language Benchmarks, how to tie your lessons to the Ontario curriculum, and how to better teach pronunciation. I really enjoyed my time at CCE, and I highly recommend the course”
William Moeller, International English Teacher
“The TESL Diploma course offered at the Canadian College of Educators is by far the most relevant, useful course that I have ever taken. The program is premised on sound pedagogical principles and delivered by outstanding, inspiring, empathetic teachers. Not only are you taught the most current information you need to know in order to become an effective ESL teacher but you have the opportunity to apply that knowledge on a daily basis. This course gave me a new outlook on life and an opportunity to meet some outstanding educators. If you are looking for a life-changing experience, this TESL Diploma course is for you.”
Trudi B. McCarthy LINC Instructor, Polycultural Immigrant & Communitiy Services Mississauga
“Everything about the Canadian College of Educators is phenomenal. I have learned so much!”
Linda Bordonaro, ESL Teacher, Toronto District School Board
“Thank you so much Canadian College of Educators and Faculty for making my dreams come true. CCE was the first place I came to when I came to Canada and I could not have done it without you. Everyone was supportive and helpful.”
Esther Bhatti, ESL Teacher, Peel District School Board
“Being a mother of two and a mature student, I was daunted by returning to school full time. At the Canadian College of Educators, I found others like me, seeking a new and more rewarding career. While the workload wasn’t easy, the teachers were inspirational and compassionate. After four months of hard work I graduated with honours with a Diploma in my hand. Shortly thereafter, I was offered my first job as a teacher. My new career is just as rewarding as I thought it would be.”
Tina McConnell, ESL Teacher, Oxford Learning Centre
“Thank you Canadian College of Educators. Two weeks after graduation I got a job and I love what I do! The course provided me with the knowledge and ability to teach English far beyond my expectations. Thank you for all your hard work and much needed guidance.”
Philip Kondrat, ESL Teacher, International House
“Having a Masters in Second Language Education and years of ESL teaching experience I didn’t think there would be much for me to learn in a TESL program, but I wanted the TESL Certification. I learned A LOT!”
Kimberly Wright, ESL Teacher, University of Guelph
“I just wanted to thank everyone at CCE, especially the phenomenal teachers, for the education, training, and great memories.”
Robert Diamond, ESL Teacher, Robinson College
“I loved going to class every day and found myself more inspired about education than ever.”
Lois Nunan, ESL Teacher, Halton District School Board
“I just want to thank you for providing an excellent TESL course. The instructors were very professional; in fact the whole course was beyond what I had expected regarding the kind of information received. Since completing the course I have found I know more than I thought I had learned. Often I am being asked questions from other teachers in the school where I work regarding the curriculum and how to organize a program. So it seems I am recognized as the teacher with the “much knowledge”. I have your course to thank for that. In my opinion your course far exceeds the expectations of some schools and provides students like me with confidence to teach ESL anywhere. You have a winning course, keep it up.”
Bryce Kerr, ESL Teacher, Kennedy College
“Thank you from another happy TESL Graduate!”
Louise Foster, ESL Teacher, Bronte Language Centre
“I graduated from the Canadian College of Educators, and I was proud to add the TESL Diploma to my previous qualifications. There is only one word to describe this course at the College – it is simply amazing. From the very first day I realized how well organized and prepared everything was and how helpful the teachers are. The atmosphere was great. After 20 years I have spent in the field of education I can say that this course really impressed me. I had a great time, busy schedule and successful results, and I met many new colleagues and friends. As an internationally trained specialist in education I found that the program helped me to meet Canada’s requirements in the field of ESL teaching and showed me new ways of teaching English as a second language. Under the guidance of my helpful, understanding, experienced and knowledgeable teachers, I moved ahead in my personal process of gaining professional self-esteem in a new country. I received not only my recognized Diploma, but also precious experience. I really miss the time I spent in the College, where the faculty gave us a lot, treated us with respect, prepared us for a real-life teaching practice and believed in us. Thank you for your well-done job! To all my new colleagues, current and potential students of the College, I can only say: do not miss this great opportunity; you will enjoy it and it is worth it! It will give you many more chances in your life.”
Veselina Popova–Gyozova School Board International Languages Teacher
“Graduating with a TESL Diploma course offered from the Canadian College of Educators is one of my most rewarding and most memorable experiences in my life! Not only did they thoroughly prepare me to immediately walk into a classroom and teach fresh out of CCE, but I learned so much about myself and about other cultures. CCE and their exemplary staff go above and beyond in helping you reach your goals. I was working in a LINC centre the week following my graduation!!! Thank-you so much for having opened new doors to my future.¨
Julia Charbonneau, LINC Instructor, Catholic Cross-Cultural Services LINC
“It was a great course! I am ready to take on the world now!”
Brad Madden, International ESL Teacher, 13 countries traveled so far…
My experience at the CCE was instrumental in providing me with the tools necessary to succeed and reach my professional goals. Although, I had extensive teaching experience prior to the commencement of this course, I was amazed at how much I still had to learn and grateful for the opportunity to learn from some of the best in the field.
Atif Malik, ESL Instructor, Wilfrid Laurier University
“Everything that I learned at Canadian College of Educators has helped me a lot in my new teaching career! The teachers definitely provided us with the fundamentals, the knowledge, skills, and tools to succeed in the TESL field. Also, it helped me build a good network. Thank you very much for all your support”
Marcia M., LINC Instructor, Halton Multicultural Council
“I work as an online ESL tutor/instructor, and I love it! I was skeptical at first, but choosing an online teaching position was the best decision I ever made. The flexibility is awesome, the pay is fair, and the technology platforms available are state-of-the-art. I have had great success teaching online, and I don’t know if I could ever give it up for a traditional teaching position in a classroom. The training I received from Canadian College of Educators (CCE) was invaluable. It was the best investment I ever made! Anybody wanting to succeed in an ESL teaching career, look no further than CCE!”
Mike Jackson, Online ESL Teacher, Seer English
I highly recommend CCE. I just finished the in-person 4-month course a couple of weeks ago, and I’m now teaching ESL in Toronto.
CCE has a very focused approach to TESL. There is a lot in the course about LINC. However, LINC requirements and CLBs align with the CEF and other international frameworks. So training here is useful elsewhere. Basically, if you want to teach English to adults in a TESL-Canada accredited facility, you must have this diploma, regardless of whatever experience or qualifications you hold. I have a Ph.D., a B.Ed., and an ESL A.Q., but I wanted the TESL to be able to teach in ESL schools here. Meanwhile, none of my education had covered PBLA/CLBs, so this course was a good update for me.
The instructors are highly experienced and qualified. They are well-connected in the field, and they gave careful thought to our practicum placements. They are also aware of what’s going on internationally and developments in online teaching. Finally, they are genuinely nice people. This is important in an industry where teachers are often treated like cogs in a wheel.
It’s a diverse student body, just like in every other college or university in the GTA. As you would expect of a course for English teachers, many come to the program highly qualified. Some worked in other countries as teachers for twenty years. So there is a lot of knowledge and experience among them. If you are reading this, you probably also know that there are many barriers faced by professionals new to the country. This school helps people overcome some of those barriers.
I had never gone to a private college before, and I was a little worried about that. But it’s the same as the public system–just smaller, which, I think is good–you get to know people well. I would definitely take another course at CCE in the future.
Emma Gorst, EAP Instructor, International Centre for EAP
Need More Information? Questions?
Email us at info@canadiancollegeofeducators.ca
