M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language
For those who want advanced study for a career in TESL.
Our program represents a unique, communication-based approach to TESL. Graduate students receive strong grounding in language theory while also developing the interpersonal skills necessary to provide intensive instruction to ESL students.
The program also prepares students to teach in a variety of ESL/EFL contexts, from literacy and adult education programs in the U.S. to international teaching positions.
If you are interested in teaching in schools in Ohio, please review requirements at: https://www.kent.edu/english/ma-tesl-teachers
There are three requirements for the TESL M.A.:
- Thirty-six hours of coursework drawn from several fields, including linguistics, English grammar, second language acquisition, language teaching, sociolinguistics, cultural studies, and computers in language teaching. (see Compare TESL-TEFL Programs).
- A Final Portfolio, Final Exam, or a six-credit thesis. Each student receives hands-on training and works closely with faculty in the preparation of the students choice of a professional portfolio, culminating exams, or thesis.
- Foreign Language Requirement Students must demonstrate an intermediate level of proficiency in a foreign/second language prior to graduation. International Students (non-native speakers of English) can use English for this requirement; others must document completion of intermediate or advanced foreign language courses, or they can complete a language exam in the department and demonstrate intermediate level knowledge of a second/foreign language.
Assistantship Application
To apply for an assistantship, you must complete the admissions process above by January 15, and in addition, complete the Application for Assistantship and send this to the Graduate Secretary in English. Students with assistantships serve as ESL instructors and tutors. Limited opportunities for research assistantships and non-teaching fellowships are also available. Assistantships are highly competitive.