In 1988, the University reorganized its long-standing, successful credit and non-credit English as a Second Language (ESL) programs within the Center for Language Acquisition, Instruction and Research (CLAIR). The Institute, which is administered collaboratively by the Linguistics Department and the Center for Continuing Education, serves as a center for the teaching and learning of languages. CLAIR also provides a venue for the exploration of innovative language teaching formats as well as a site for training of language teachers. CLAIR offers an 18 credit program leading to a Montclair State University certificate in TESOL. This professional certificate program is designed to provide participants with a background in the principles of linguistics and language education along with an understanding of the classroom applications of these principles. These experiences culminate in an ESL teaching practicum in CLAIR or at another appropriate off-campus site. The entire program is designed to be completed in two semesters of full-time study.