Post-Graduate Certificate for Internationally Trained Teachers

Preparing Internationally Trained Teachers to Teach in Ontario

The Faculty of Education at Queen's University has developed a 16-month program for internationally trained teachers who are certified to teach in another country. This unique program offers cultural, educational and social opportunities that will prepare you to teach in an Ontario classroom. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a Queen’s University transcript and a Post-Graduate Certificate in Education. Our program will count toward the Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) certification process. If you complete the certificate you may be eligible for advanced standing in the Professional Master of Education (PME) program at Queen’s University.

Program Overview

English Language Training

You’ll begin by participating in the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program at the Queen’s School of English (QSoE). It consists of 12 weeks of intensive English language training designed to develop knowledge, skills and strategies for academic success.

The 22.5 in-class hours per week focus on the four main language skills:

• Listening
• Reading
• Speaking
• Writing

In addition to the EAP program, you’ll take a language support course to help with academic course work and an IELTS preparatory course to prepare to meet the English language requirements (IELTS 7.0 or TOEFL iBT 103) for Ontario College of Teachers certification.

For more information regarding the EAP program, the QSoE website.

Additional Qualification Courses

You’ll also complete seven additional qualification (AQ) courses designed to prepare you for professional practice in Ontario schools. Each AQ consists of 125 hours of content to be completed over a five-week period in a blended (online and onsite) format. All courses are facilitated by Ontario certified teachers. These courses will complement your existing teacher education degree and help prepare you for teaching in the Ontario school system.

AQ Courses:

Orientation to Teaching in Ontario

• CONT814

Classroom Management

• CONT806

Special Education Part 1

• CONT504

Student Assessment and Evaluation

• CONT811

Teaching English Language Learners

• CONT531

Teaching Students with Communication Needs (Learning Disability)

• CONT816

Teaching Students with Communication Needs (Autism Spectrum Disorders)

• CONT812

Practicum and School Experience

Experiencing an Ontario classroom is an important part of preparing to teach in Ontario. Candidates will gain school experience through either a 30-day practicum or interactive school experiences. We will do our best to place each candidate in a practicum but cannot guarantee a practicum placement due to teacher shortages. If a candidate is not placed, they will be refunded the practicum fee but will still have the opportunity to gain experience in Ontario schools.

Employment and Career Preparation

You’ll take part in workshops designed to help you apply for jobs in Ontario. They focus on resume writing, job search, and interview preparation. You’ll also have an opportunity to attend a job fair and receive help with your Ontario College of Teachers application.

Experiential Opportunities

Throughout the program, you’ll engage in experiential learning opportunities, such as participating in a volunteer program, visiting local schools, and working with community groups related to education. Students will also have the opportunity to be involved in Indigenous initiatives including visits from Queen’s University Elders and other members of the local Indigenous community. These experiences will allow you to apply your learning both inside and outside the traditional school system.

Program Dates

Program Fees

Program fees include:

• All English language training
• Seven AQ courses
• IELTS preparation
• Experiential programming
• 30-day practicum and/or school experience
• Employment and career preparation

Minimum Application Requirements

Please note that we may require additional documentation to support your application, as each country has different standards and regulations for Teacher Certification (formal teacher training).

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Proof of teacher certification
• Proof of English language proficiency at the level of IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL iBT 80

If you are below the listed English language requirements, you might be qualified to take our English language pathway program.

If you have any questions, please contact Professional Studies at professionalstudies@queensu.ca.

Accommodation Options

Off-Campus Living

Queen's University has supports available to help you find a comfortable place to live while studying. The Off-Campus Living Advisor is available to provide confidential guidance on evaluating off-campus housing, tenant rights and responsibilities, and resources for moving in/out. Virtual, one-on-one housing consultation appointments are available for all Queen's students. For more information, please visit www.queensu.ca/ocla or contact ocla@queensu.ca.

Canada Homestay Network

The Faculty of Education and Queen’s School of English have partnered with the Canada Homestay Network, which provides affordable living options for international students.

A homestay experience includes:

• A safe and welcoming place to call home
• Canadian cultural immersion
• An opportunity to make friends in the community
• All meals included in homestay fees
• Assistance with accommodation during school placements in other communities

For more information, please contact help@canadahomestaynetwork.ca

Learn more about Queen’s University and Kingston

English Language Pathway Program

The English for Academic Purposes (EAP) pathway program is for students who are qualified for admission into the Post-Graduate Certificate for Internationally Trained Teachers program, but do not meet the minimum English language requirement of an IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 80, Cambridge English 170 or CAEL 60.

To be accepted into this program, the applicant must meet one of the following English language requirements:

• IELTS 5.5 overall
• Cambridge English 160
• TOEFL iBT 58
• CAEL Overall Band 5 or equivalent

Pathway Program Information

The EAP pathway program consists of a 12-week intensive English language program that develops knowledge, skills and strategies for academic success.

The classes will focus on integrated practice in all four language skills:

• Listening
• Reading
• Writing
• Speaking

Pathway Application Information

Please contact us at professionalstudies@queensu.ca if you are interested in taking the pathway program.

Advanced Standing in the Specialized Applied Graduate Experience (SAGE)

Students who complete the Post-Graduate Certificate for Internationally Trained Teachers will be eligible to receive advanced standing in the Specialized Applied Graduate Experience (SAGE). Queen’s University Faculty of Education has designed SAGE as a customizable graduate experience, with the inclusion of three different credentials within one program. SAGE is a course-based, fully online program, allowing you to explore diverse topics, expand your resume and experience, and grow as a professional. Students who complete the SAGE program will receive a Post-Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Professional Master of Education. Contact us at sage@queensu.ca or visit educ.queensu.ca/sage for more information.