WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SLATE PROGRAM?

I.Second Language Learning Experience

 In order to earn a SLATE certificate, students must demonstrate competence in a second language. For native English speakers, a "second language" can be the second language of research/teaching, or, for those concentrating on ESL as the subject of research and teaching, any second language. For non-native speakers, the proficiency in English that is required for admission is considered more than adequate to fulfill this requirement. This requirement is designed to ensure the full appreciation and understanding of what it means to experience the learning of a second language. Second language competence is assessed in a variety of ways, to be determined by the student's advisor.

II.Dissertation Topic

In order to earn a SLATE certificate, the student's disseration topic must be related to one or more aspects of second language acquisition.

III.Required SLATE Coursework

SLATE coursework requirements (effective for students who entered a UIUC Ph.D. program in Fall 1997 or later). If you entered a UIUC Ph.D. program before, Fall 1997, please click here to see SLATE coursework requirements.

HOW CAN I FULFILL BOTH THE SLATE REQUIREMENTS AND THE REQUIREMENTS OF MY Ph.D. PROGRAM?

The SLATE program is designed to meet the individual needs of its students. The course requirements in the affiliated units are generally flexible and allow students the freedom to conduct work in specialized subfields tailored to their academic interests in second/foreign language acquisition.