Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the certificate program in teaching Chinese to speakers of other languages (TCSOL) the same as a certification program?
Please note that this is not a certification program. The certificate program is a non-degree, fast-track program. Attending this program does not certify participants for teaching in public K-12 schools in the U.S., unless they are able to gain “temporary” or “emergency” certification. However, graduates from this program are eligible to teach in Independent K-12 School settings. Those who are interested in pursuing an MA degree may subsequently apply either to the Applied Linguistics Program or to the Bilingual Education Program at Teachers College if they wish to receive New York State certification. If they are accepted to either program, they can transfer the equivalent of six credits from the TCSOL Certificate Program.
2. Is scholarship available?
Merit-based scholarships may be available.
3. What type of certificate will I receive?
If you successfully complete the program of study, you will receive a certificate from Teachers College, Columbia University.
4. Is the student considered a full-time student in this program?
The student can be full-time or part-time, although the courses are run on weekends.
5. Does this program accept international students?
Absolutely. International students must apply early - by April 1 - in order to allow sufficient time for obtaining an entry visa, should they be accepted. The Program sponsors J-1 only. Click here for relevant information.
6. Can the course be taken online?
No, this is an offline program.
7. If I am taking TOEFL exam, what is the school code that I should provide to the TOEFL exam center?
You should provide the code for whichever school you are currently in and have the report sent to you there, which you can then submit to us as part of your application.
8. If I submit the last exam score, will it be the same for providing English proficiency?
Preferably, your score report is not more than three years old.
9. Would the TCSOL program be expanded from a certificate program to a degree program?
The degree program is in the works. It is not going to replace the certificate program. Applicants to the MA program will need to submit HSK scores. The program will have its own curriculum but with some overlap with TESOL/Applied Linguistics MA. For anyone interested in such a program, s/he may enroll in the MA Applied Linguistics Program now while waiting for the new program to be set up. Alternatively, s/he may join the TCSOL Certificate Program first and later enroll in the Applied Linguistics Program.
