FullyFundedWeb > TESOL            Related:   English   Classics   Creative Writing

16 Fully Funded Master's Programs in TESOL in the US

      


University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Programs Offered: MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MATESOL)
Location: Department of Linguistics 4080 Literatures, Cultures & Linguistics Building 707 S. Mathews Ave. | MC-168 Urbana, IL 61801
Admission:  Admission to the program is highly competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.

The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MATESOL) program

It is designed to prepare educators for diverse roles in the field of English language instruction. This comprehensive program aims to develop professional leaders equipped with linguistic knowledge, pedagogical skills, and practical experience.

The MATESOL curriculum provides students with a solid foundation in English language structure, second language acquisition theories, and effective teaching methodologies. It emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, encouraging students to integrate research findings into their teaching practices. The program's goal is to produce well-rounded professionals capable of excelling in various positions, including classroom instruction, curriculum development, and program administration.

One of the program's strengths is its focus on balancing practical skills with theoretical knowledge. Students are encouraged to engage with current research and professional literature, fostering a commitment to ongoing professional development. This approach ensures graduates are prepared to adapt to the evolving landscape of English language teaching.

Financial support is available to many MATESOL students, with teaching assistantships being the most common form of aid. These positions typically involve teaching one ESL course per semester, providing valuable hands-on experience. Assistantships often include tuition waivers and monthly stipends, making the program more accessible to a diverse range of students.

For non-native English speakers seeking teaching positions, the program requires demonstration of advanced English proficiency. This ensures all instructors can effectively model language use for their students. Financial aid applications are processed separately for each academic term, with specific deadlines for fall/summer and spring semesters.

Newly admitted students are automatically considered for first-semester financial aid. However, all students must reapply each subsequent semester, allowing for potential changes in teaching assignments or other circumstances. This process reflects the program's commitment to providing ongoing support while maintaining flexibility in meeting student needs and departmental requirements.

The MATESOL program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a robust educational experience, combining academic rigor with practical training and financial support opportunities. This comprehensive approach prepares graduates to make significant contributions to the field of English language teaching in various contexts worldwide.



      
      


Michigan State University
Programs Offered: M.A. TESOL
Location: The Department of Linguistics, Languages, and Cultures Michigan State University Wells Hall B-331 619 Red Cedar Road East Lansing, MI 48824
Admission:  Admission to the program is highly competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.

Michigan State University's Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA TESOL) program is a highly regarded and competitive academic offering. Each fall semester, the program welcomes a cohort of 10-15 new students from diverse backgrounds, both domestic and international. While a bachelor's degree and a strong academic record are prerequisites, prior coursework in related fields is beneficial but not mandatory.

The program offers Teaching Assistantships through the English Language Center (ELC), providing financial support and practical experience. These assistantships include a stipend and a tuition waiver for 9 credits per semester. The application process for assistantships is separate from program admission and has a February 1st deadline for the fall semester. Prospective students must first secure admission to the MA TESOL program before applying for an assistantship.

Graduates of the program find employment opportunities worldwide in various roles, including language instruction, teacher training, curriculum development, assessment, and program administration. The program's success is attributed to its distinguished faculty, comprising renowned researchers, journal editors, and experienced educators with extensive expertise in teaching and assessment.

The MA TESOL program at Michigan State University prepares students for diverse career paths in the field of English language education, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in an increasingly globalized world.



      
      


Indiana University Bloomington
Programs Offered: M.A. in Tesol and Applied Linguistics
Location: Ballantine Hall 704 1020 E. Kirkwood Ave. Bloomington, IN 47405
Admission:  Admission to the program is highly competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.

Indiana University Bloomington offers a Master of Arts program in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Applied Linguistics, providing a comprehensive foundation for careers in English language instruction for adult and adolescent learners. The program's curriculum is meticulously designed to cover essential aspects of language education, including contemporary second language acquisition theories, English phonology and syntax, pedagogical methodologies, and assessment techniques.

A distinguishing feature of the program is its capstone experience, which involves practical teaching in a department-managed community outreach initiative. Students also have the flexibility to pursue electives in specialized areas such as second language reading and writing, pragmatics, corrective feedback, and language processing.

Financial support is available to most graduate students through Student Academic Appointments (SAAs). These positions typically involve teaching in the department's English language programs or other language departments. Occasionally, research assistant positions are also available. SAAs offer comprehensive benefits, including full tuition remission, a monthly stipend, health insurance, and additional university perks.

Prospective students interested in SAAs are encouraged to express their interest when applying to the program. This ensures consideration for these valuable opportunities, which not only provide financial support but also offer invaluable teaching experience, enhancing students' professional development in the field of language education.



      
      


The University of Arizona
Programs Offered: Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language
Location: English Applied Linguistics Program Department of English 1423 E. University Blvd. Rm. 445 Tucson, AZ 85721-0067
Admission:  Admission to the program is highly competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is extremely competitive.

The University of Arizona offers a Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language (MATESL) program, designed for current and aspiring professionals in the field of English language instruction and applied linguistics. This comprehensive program provides a balanced approach to theory, research, and practical application, catering to cohorts of 8-12 students annually.

The curriculum, comprising 33 credit hours typically completed over four semesters, covers essential aspects of language teaching and learning, including pedagogical theory, research methodologies, and practical applications. Students benefit from individualized attention due to the program's small size, engaging with internationally recognized faculty experts in areas such as socio-cognitive approaches to second language acquisition, second language writing, corpus linguistics, classroom discourse analysis, and technology-enhanced language teaching.

A distinctive feature of the program is the Applied ESL seminar in the final semester, which includes the development of a teaching portfolio, an action research project, and professional development activities. This capstone experience prepares graduates for diverse career paths in the field.

Post-graduation, approximately one-third of MATESL alumni pursue doctoral studies, with some entering the university's Graduate Interdisciplinary Ph.D. Program in Second Language Acquisition and Teaching (SLAT). The remaining graduates typically find employment as adult ESL instructors in the United States or as English as a foreign language teachers internationally, with abundant opportunities in East Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.

The University of Arizona offers various funding opportunities for qualified MATESL students. These include graduate teaching assistantships (GTAs) within the Department of English, which involve teaching composition courses in the Writing Program. GTAs receive substantial benefits, including tuition waivers, stipends, and health insurance coverage. The selection process for these positions is highly competitive, favoring applicants with strong academic backgrounds, particularly in writing-intensive fields.

Additional financial support may be available through Graduate Tuition Scholarships, which can cover between 25% and 100% of tuition costs. Furthermore, Graduate Access Fellowships of up to $4,000 per semester are offered to incoming domestic students who have demonstrated academic achievement despite facing socioeconomic or educational challenges.

Prospective students interested in these funding opportunities are encouraged to submit GRE scores, a writing sample, and notify the program director of their interest. It's important to note that funding recipients are typically required to maintain full-time enrollment status throughout their studies.



      
      


The University of Alabama
Programs Offered: MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA-TESOL)
Location: 103 English Building The University of Alabama Tuscaloosa, AL 35487-0244
Admission:  Admission to the program is more competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.

The University of Alabama offers a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA-TESOL) program, designed to prepare graduates for diverse academic and professional careers in the field of English language education. This comprehensive two-year program requires students to complete 30 credit hours of coursework, combining a structured curriculum with flexible elective options.

The program's curriculum is crafted to equip students with specialized knowledge, cultural understanding, and teaching skills necessary for success in various educational contexts. Graduates of the program have pursued doctoral studies in related fields such as Applied Linguistics, Education, Linguistics, and Rhetoric and Composition. Many have also secured teaching positions in schools, language institutes, and universities both domestically and internationally.

A distinguishing feature of the MA-TESOL program is its emphasis on practical teaching experience. Students are offered a variety of supervised teaching opportunities to build their skills in different contexts. These include:

1. Teaching composition courses in the First Year Writing Program
2. Tutoring in the University Writing Center
3. Apprenticeships at the English Language Institute on campus
4. Local teaching opportunities through the English Language Institute's External Programs and Tuscaloosa City Schools

The apprenticeship at the English Language Institute is particularly noteworthy, designed to foster significant professional growth. Students typically observe classes and provide tutoring initially, followed by teaching activities and lessons in the latter part of the semester. In some cases, students may work as teacher assistants or tutors based on the institute's needs and individual circumstances.

An attractive aspect of the program is its comprehensive financial support package. All enrolled graduate students, regardless of their nationality, receive full tuition waivers, an annual stipend of approximately $17,000, and health insurance coverage. This financial assistance allows students to focus on their studies and professional development without the burden of financial constraints.

The MA-TESOL program at the University of Alabama offers a balanced approach to theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for successful careers in English language education and related fields. Its combination of rigorous coursework, diverse teaching experiences, and financial support makes it an appealing choice for aspiring TESOL professionals.



      
      
The University of Mississippi
Programs Offered: M.A. of Modern Languages with Emphasis in. Applied Linguistics and TESOL
Location: Department of Modern Languages P.O. Box 1848 University, MS 38677
Admission:  Admission to the program is more competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.

The University of Mississippi's Department of Modern Languages offers a Master of Arts program in Modern Languages with various specializations, including Applied Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL). This program is designed to prepare students for careers in English language teaching and provides a strong foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in the field.

The TESOL specialization focuses on both practical and theoretical aspects of linguistics, equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel as English language educators. The program's curriculum emphasizes best practices in second language teaching methodologies.

Prospective students should note that the primary application deadline is March 15th for fall semester admission, with later applications considered on a space-available basis. Spring admissions are only considered in exceptional circumstances, with an October 1st deadline.

Financial assistance is available through various channels, including the Price Scholarship, Graduate Research Assistantships, and Graduate Instructorships. These opportunities provide a stipend ranging from $5,000 to $5,250 per semester and include a full graduate tuition waiver. All admitted applicants are automatically considered for these assistantships without a separate application process.

International applicants are advised to apply early to ensure ample time for completing both application and visa requirements.



      
      
Northern Arizona University
Programs Offered: Applied Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language, Master of Arts
Location: English Department Composition Office PO Box 6032 Northern Arizona University Flagstaff, AZ 86011
Admission:  Admission to the program is more competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.

Northern Arizona University offers a Master of Arts program in Applied Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL). This comprehensive two-year program is designed to provide students with a robust theoretical foundation in applied linguistics while offering practical training in English language instruction for non-native speakers.

The program's primary objectives are threefold: to impart essential linguistic theory for ESL/EFL teachers, to equip educators with practical skills for effective language instruction, and to prepare students for advanced studies in related fields. This balanced approach ensures graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in language education and research.

Financial assistance is available through various channels. Eligible students can apply for teaching assistantships in the English Department, where they may teach composition courses. Additionally, the Program in Intensive English (PIE) offers assistantships specifically for Applied Linguistics students, providing them with extensive training and experience in ESL instruction within an intensive English setting. A limited number of tuition waivers are also available for both in-state and out-of-state students demonstrating financial need.

The application process for teaching assistantships begins on February 1st, with positions typically filled by May. These assistantships are subject to annual review, with the possibility of two years of support for students maintaining satisfactory academic and teaching performance. It's important to note that assistantships are not available for spring semester starts or online teaching assignments.

Graduate Teaching Assistants (GTAs) in the PIE program commit to a 20-hour work week, which encompasses a range of responsibilities. These include teaching classes, developing instructional materials and assessments, collaborative lesson planning, grading, providing student feedback, and participating in program meetings and assessments. GTAs are also required to attend orientation sessions before each semester: a two-week orientation prior to the fall semester and a one-week preparation period before the spring semester.

This comprehensive program structure ensures that students graduate with a well-rounded skill set, combining theoretical knowledge with practical teaching experience, preparing them for successful careers in ESL/EFL instruction or further academic pursuits in applied linguistics and related fields.



      
      
Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Programs Offered: M.A. degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Location: School of Languages and Linguistics | 1000 Faner Drive, Mail Code 4521, Carbondale, IL 62901
Admission:  Admission to the program is more competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.

Southern Illinois University Carbondale offers a Master of Arts program in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), designed to prepare educators for the challenges of language instruction in diverse settings. This comprehensive program integrates linguistic theory with practical classroom applications, equipping graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about teaching approaches, methods, and techniques.

The curriculum emphasizes the importance of understanding individual student differences, varying teaching and learning contexts, and the influence of social structures on language education. This holistic approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared for roles beyond classroom teaching, including positions as teacher educators, curriculum developers, and assessment specialists.

Financial support is available through teaching assistantships offered by the Linguistics program and occasionally through the Center for English as a Second Language (CESL). The number of assistantships varies based on budget allocations and enrollment needs. Prospective students are encouraged to submit their applications by March 1st for optimal consideration for both program admission and assistantship opportunities. No separate application is required for assistantship consideration.

The TESOL program's structure balances theoretical foundations with practical experience. Core linguistics courses are complemented by specialized classes in language teaching theory and methods. A supervised teaching practicum provides hands-on experience, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings.

Graduates of the program are well-positioned for careers in English language teaching both domestically and internationally. The program also provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing advanced studies in language learning, teaching, or related fields.

By blending linguistic science with classroom artistry, Southern Illinois University Carbondale's TESOL program prepares educators to navigate the complex landscape of language instruction, fostering a new generation of informed and adaptable language professionals.



      
      
The University of Southern Mississippi
Programs Offered: Master of Arts in the Teaching of Languages
Location: 118 College Drive #5108 Hattiesburg, MS 39406 Liberal Arts Building
Admission:  Admission to the program is more competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is highly competitive.

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a Master of Arts in the Teaching of Languages (MATL) program with specializations in Spanish, French, and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This comprehensive program is designed to enhance educators' knowledge and skills in language acquisition, instruction, and related theories.

The curriculum includes core courses covering essential topics such as second language teaching methodology, applied linguistics, acquisition theory, and sociocultural perspectives. Additional coursework is required for specific language emphases. The program's flexibility is evident in its year-round course offerings, available both online and on-campus, catering to the diverse needs of modern language educators.

Financial support is available through approximately eight yearly assistantships for qualified individuals. These positions involve tutoring and teaching introductory French or Spanish courses on the Hattiesburg campus. Benefits include a monthly stipend, health insurance access, and tuition waivers for fall and spring semesters, typically for two years. Eligibility for teaching assistantships usually requires completion of 18 graduate credit hours in the target language.

Prospective students interested in assistantships must submit their online program applications and a separate letter of interest to the MATL Director by March 5th.



      
      
Salisbury University
Programs Offered: Master of Arts of English with TESOL Track
Location: 1101 Camden Avenue Salisbury, MD 21801
Admission:  Admission to the program is competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.

Salisbury University's English Department offers a comprehensive Master of Arts program with a specialized track in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This program is designed to provide students with advanced study opportunities in English, catering to a diverse range of career goals including doctoral studies, community college teaching, and secondary school instruction.

The program strikes a balance between rigorous academic standards and a nurturing learning environment. Its size allows for high-quality instruction from actively publishing faculty while maintaining a collegial atmosphere that promotes mentoring relationships and personalized attention. This combination creates an intellectually stimulating and productive graduate experience.

Financial support is available through a limited number of teaching assistantships. These positions offer a $15,000 stipend and tuition waiver in exchange for teaching three sections of the department's First Year Writing course (English 103: Composition and Research) per academic year. This opportunity not only provides financial assistance but also valuable teaching experience.

Master's students in the program enjoy full access to university facilities and services, including student clubs, activities, and gym facilities. They are also eligible to participate in the Graduate Student Senate. Additionally, students benefit from faculty-level privileges at the SU Libraries, including extended loan periods and access to the extensive University System of Maryland catalog through interlibrary loans.

The TESOL track within the MA in English program is particularly designed for students interested in language teaching and linguistics. It equips graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to teach English to non-native speakers in various settings, both domestically and internationally.

Overall, Salisbury University's MA in English with a TESOL track offers a well-rounded graduate experience, combining academic rigor, practical teaching opportunities, and comprehensive university resources to prepare students for successful careers in English studies and language instruction.



      
      
Oklahoma State University
Programs Offered: MA in English with an option in Teaching English as a Second Language
Location: 205 Morrill Hall Oklahoma State University Stillwater, OK 74078
Admission:  Admission to the program is competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.

Oklahoma State University's Department of English offers a comprehensive Master of Arts program with a concentration in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This specialized track prepares students for diverse careers in English language instruction, catering to various educational contexts and learner populations.

The TESOL program provides a solid foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for effective language teaching. Core areas of study include applied linguistics, second language acquisition theories, and advanced pedagogical approaches. Students engage in hands-on learning through supervised teaching internships, gaining invaluable classroom experience.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue teaching positions in a variety of settings. These may include international schools and universities, intensive English programs for international students in the United States, and educational institutions serving bilingual or multicultural communities. The versatility of the degree allows graduates to adapt their skills to meet the needs of diverse learner groups and educational environments.

The curriculum is designed to be both rigorous and flexible. Students can choose between a thesis option (30 credit hours) and a non-thesis option (34 credit hours), allowing them to align their studies with their academic interests and career aspirations. In addition to coursework, students must demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language and successfully complete a comprehensive examination in TESOL.

To support students financially and enhance their professional development, the English Department offers graduate teaching assistantships. These positions provide students with practical teaching experience while offering financial benefits such as reduced tuition rates, partial tuition waivers, monthly stipends, and health insurance coverage. Teaching assistants may be assigned to various roles, including tutoring in the Writing Center or instructing courses in composition, technical writing, or literature.

All teaching assistants, regardless of prior experience, are required to complete pedagogical training courses during their first year. These courses ensure that assistants are well-prepared for their teaching responsibilities and may cover topics such as composition theory, professional writing pedagogy, or specific TESOL methodologies.



      
      
Colorado State University
Programs Offered: M.A. in TEFL/TESL
Location: Fort Collins, CO 80523
Admission:  Admission to the program is competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.

Colorado State University offers a Master of Arts program in Teaching English as a Foreign Language and Teaching English as a Second Language (TEFL/TESL). This program is part of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) Western Regional Graduate Program, allowing students from 15 western states to qualify for in-state tuition rates.

The TEFL/TESL M.A. program at Colorado State University is designed to prepare graduates for diverse career paths in English language education and related fields. The curriculum focuses on developing expertise in teaching methodologies, assessment techniques, materials development, and applied linguistics research. Students benefit from a low faculty-to-student ratio, ensuring personalized attention and mentorship throughout their studies.

A key feature of the program is its emphasis on practical experience. Students have multiple opportunities for supervised teaching, internships, and assistantships. The program's partnership with PLACE, an intensive English language program, provides additional hands-on learning experiences. Students can also engage with peers through the TEFL/TESL Student Association, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped for various professional roles, including ESL teachers in domestic and international settings, language program administrators, materials developers for educational publishers, assessment specialists, translators, and linguists. Some graduates choose to pursue doctoral studies in related fields.

The program offers competitive Graduate Teaching Assistantships (GTAs) in the English department. These positions typically involve teaching first-year composition courses and provide valuable classroom experience. GTAs receive comprehensive training in teaching writing and rhetoric, preparing them to effectively instruct students in various forms of written communication. Additionally, a limited number of assistantships are available at PLACE for TEFL/TESL students.

GTA positions are awarded on a competitive basis for the fall semester and include a monthly stipend and tuition coverage. First-year GTAs receive full tuition coverage, while second- and third-year GTAs receive resident tuition coverage.



      
      
Southeast Missouri State University
Programs Offered: Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Location: One University Plaza Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Admission:  Admission to the program is competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.

Southeast Missouri State University offers a Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program, designed to prepare educators for diverse teaching environments. This comprehensive program equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to teach English to non-native speakers in various settings, ranging from preschool to higher education, both domestically and internationally.

The curriculum emphasizes practical application of linguistic theory, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for real-world teaching scenarios. Core components of the program include sociolinguistics, research methodologies, and approaches to grammar instruction. A distinguishing feature is the required practicum, which provides hands-on teaching experience under professional supervision.

Students in the program benefit from expert faculty guidance, developing proficiency in curriculum design, program assessment, and adaptation of teaching materials to suit specific educational contexts. The program's focus on applied linguistics enhances students' understanding of English language structure, usage patterns, and societal roles.

Graduates of the TESOL program find diverse career opportunities. These include positions as ESL educators in domestic and international settings, instructional coordinators, and international program administrators. The program's reputation for excellence is recognized at regional, national, and international levels, reflecting its commitment to producing highly skilled TESOL professionals.

To support students financially and enhance their professional development, the university offers graduate assistantships. These positions, available in both teaching and administrative capacities, provide valuable experience and financial benefits. Assistantships include a stipend of $9,657 for the academic year and cover tuition for up to 9 credits per semester during fall and spring, and 6 credits in summer.

These assistantships serve multiple purposes: they offer professional experience, contribute to academic training, and help alleviate the financial burden of graduate education. The specific responsibilities and eligibility criteria may vary across departments, allowing for a range of professional development opportunities tailored to different areas of expertise within the TESOL field.



      
      
Ball State University
Programs Offered: Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Linguistics
Location: Robert Bell Building (RB), Room 297 Muncie, IN 47306
Admission:  Admission to the program is competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.

Ball State University offers a Master of Arts program in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Linguistics, providing a comprehensive approach to language education and research. This program integrates key aspects of both fields, offering students a multifaceted understanding of language development and instruction.

The curriculum is designed to equip students with a deep comprehension of language systems and their interconnected components. Students develop skills in linguistic analysis, cross-cultural communication, and scientific research methodologies. The program emphasizes practical application, teaching students how to create effective lesson plans, develop instructional materials, and assess language learners' progress.

Faculty members, actively engaged in diverse linguistic research areas, provide students with opportunities for collaborative research experiences. Research topics range from second language vocabulary acquisition to discourse analysis and language policy studies. This exposure to ongoing research enhances students' academic experience and prepares them for potential doctoral studies or research-oriented careers.

The TESOL concentration specifically focuses on preparing educators to teach English in various global contexts. It provides a strong foundation in linguistic theory, including phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics, as well as sociolinguistics and second language acquisition theories. This comprehensive approach ensures graduates are well-equipped to address the complex challenges of language teaching.

The 30-credit program includes core courses such as Theories of Language Learning, Methods for Teaching English Language Learners, Materials Development, and Assessment in TESOL. These courses combine theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for diverse teaching environments.

To support students financially and professionally, the English Department offers competitive graduate assistantships. These positions provide valuable experience in teaching or research while helping to offset the cost of education. Prospective students interested in assistantships should indicate their interest on their Graduate School application. For priority consideration, applications should be completed by February 1, with decisions typically announced in April.



      
      
Illinois State University
Programs Offered: MA in English with Concentration for TESOL
Location: 100 N University St, Normal, IL 61761
Admission:  Admission to the program is competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.

Illinois State University offers a Master of Arts in English program with a concentration in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This program provides financial support through graduate assistantships, which serve as both a means of financial aid and an opportunity for professional development.

To be eligible for an assistantship, students must typically be unconditionally admitted to a graduate program, maintain good academic standing, and enroll full-time. Benefits include monthly wages, full tuition waivers for the duration of the appointment, and additional tuition waivers for the following summer term.

Master's students in the program are usually assigned 10-hour per week assistantships, which often involve teaching one class in the Writing Program or working in the English Language Institute. During their first semester, students assist experienced teachers before taking on their own class in subsequent semesters.

The assistantship package for Master's students includes a nine-month stipend and a full tuition waiver. Additional opportunities for summer teaching or research may be available. All teaching assistants are provided with an office space equipped with a computer and network access, facilitating their professional development and academic progress.



      
      
St. Cloud State University
Programs Offered: MA in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
Location: 720 4th Avenue South St. Cloud, MN 56301-4498
Admission:  Admission to the program is competitive.
Funding:  Securing a fully funded offer to the program is more competitive.

St. Cloud State University offers a Master of Arts program in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL), designed to prepare educators for both domestic and international teaching opportunities. The program leverages the university's diverse community to provide students with practical experience in a multicultural environment.

The curriculum is taught by experienced faculty with global teaching backgrounds, covering linguistics and specialized teaching methodologies. Students can gain hands-on experience through graduate assistantships at the university's English for Academic Purposes program or the Intensive English Center, which collectively offer 50 assistantships annually.

The program is available both on-campus and online, with a K-12 ESL licensure option for those with existing Minnesota teaching licenses. The student body is diverse, comprising 22% from various U.S. backgrounds and 28% international students.

Graduates receive professional credentials, and the program offers emphases in Teaching English as a Foreign Language and K-12 English as a Second Language Licensure. Financial support is available through the TEACH Grant program for K-12 ESL licensure seekers. Additionally, the university offers a 1+1 option with Korean partner institutions and a graduate certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.