Best programs for teaching English as a foreign language?

I'm planning to teach English abroad after college. Which colleges offer the best programs for teaching English as a foreign language, especially programs that provide strong training and certification?

The desire to teach English abroad is a unique and rewarding way to use your education post-college. While several institutions offer programs for teaching English as a foreign language, some stand out for their comprehensive curriculum and robust connections globally.

1. Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey: This institute offers a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) which uses a student-centered approach, preparing students to work in diverse education settings abroad.

2. Monterey Institute of International Studies: This school offers a comprehensive program in Teaching Foreign Language (TFL). The program is well-respected and can lead to a variety of teaching opportunities abroad. They even partner with English Language Institute China (ELIC) to provide direct career placement opportunities.

3. American University: Their TESOL program is available at both the master's and certificate level. They emphasize cultural understanding as well as language teaching skills, which is useful for adapting to different cultural settings abroad.

4. University of Southern California: Their Rossier School of Education offers a Master of Arts in Teaching – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MAT-TESOL) program. It’s designed for aspiring teachers who are passionate about becoming effective language instructors.

5. New York University: NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers a Master’s in TESOL, Foreign Language, and Bilingual/Multilingual Education. The program is known for its focus on using technology in language teaching.

While the choice will ultimately depend on your preferences, career goals, and financial situations, these universities have consistently demonstrated a strong emphasis on preparing students for teaching English in different cultural and linguistic contexts. You could also consider studying abroad or a semester exchange program during your studies, as experiencing cultural immersion first-hand can be excellent preparation for teaching abroad after college.