2025 Best ESL Master's Programs Online
ESL master's programs online equip educators with advanced skills in language acquisition, curriculum development, and cultural competency. The flexible format suits working professionals, preparing them for roles in K-12, higher education, and adult education. With growing demand for ESL educators, this degree offers valuable career advancement opportunities.
Key Takeaways:
- The most affordable schools with online ESL master's programs have tuition costs below $4,700. These schools also offer significant financial aid, averaging over $9,000 per student.
- Schools with high student reviews all score 3.8/5 and above. These also have recommendation rates of at least 85%.
We present schools in two distinct categories to cater to varying student priorities: affordability and student reviews. This approach enables a multidimensional evaluation, helping you identify institutions that best align with your unique educational goals. For a detailed understanding, please refer to our methodology.
Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s
Liberty University
- Online Enrollment: 48,101
Liberty University's Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) is a 30-credit hour, online program designed to equip you with the skills needed to teach English globally. Offering the benefits of 8-week courses and the option to transfer up to 50% of the required credits, this program emphasizes a market-driven approach to teaching within a Christian worldview. The program is competitively priced at $565 per credit for graduate full-time students, making it an affordable pathway to a fulfilling career in TESL.
Grand Canyon University
- Online Enrollment: 35,645
Grand Canyon University's MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is designed for licensed educators seeking to enhance their expertise in diverse classrooms. Offered through the College of Education, the program includes 32 credits, with tuition at $605 per credit. Courses, available both online and in-person, cover linguistics, multicultural education, and second language acquisition. A practicum is required for hands-on experience. Graduates can pursue ESL/BLE endorsements in Arizona, with 90% of U.S. employers seeking multilingual talent. The degree does not lead to additional licensure but expands career opportunities in education.
Western Governors University
- Online Enrollment: 49,193
Western Governors University's M.A. English Language Learning (PK-12) program is designed for licensed educators intent on obtaining an ESL or ELL endorsement. Recognized by TESOL International Association, this online program comprises 11 courses and requires a field experience component. Statistics indicate that 62% of graduates complete the program in 17 months, with tuition priced at $4,125 per six-month term. Graduates see an average salary increase of $9,437, underscoring the program's value. Flexible scheduling allows you to progress at your own pace, fostering growth in skills critical for educating diverse, multilingual students effectively.
Best by Affordability
We rigorously evaluate annual tuition costs. Our process includes manual research and verification from official school sources to confirm affordability. All of our most affordable ESL master's programs have tuition below $8,993, with some as low as $4,695.
Texas Tech University
Why We Like Them:
TTU's online excels due to its affordability, with a tuition of $4,695, making it a top pick for cost-conscious students. Available through the College of Education, the curriculum emphasizes research-based instruction and multilingual pedagogy, preparing you to be an educational leader. With a student review rating of 4.06 out of 5 and a recommendation rate of 91%, student satisfaction is evident, making TTU a compelling choice for your master's in ESL online.
What Students Say:
"I feel that I will benefit greatly from attending the program. The program will provide me with the tools and knowledge needed to advance my career... I've already learned so much in just the few classes that I've attended, and I know I will have the advantage over the competition in the workforce..."
Jonathan Rangel, Graduated 2016
Arkansas Tech University
Why We Like Them:
ATU's online excels with a tuition fee of just $4,718, making it an exceptionally budget-friendly option. This cost-efficiency is further enhanced by its strong student review rating of 3.58 out of 5. We appreciate that this program offers flexible online coursework designed for both domestic and international students. The program provides practical learning opportunities, including classroom observation and research, and prepares graduates for careers in K-12 schools, adult education, and international teaching roles.
What Students Say:
"I am a full-time student with a full-time career. I have been able to further my education with the wonderful program Arkansas Tech University offers online. The advisors are very helpful and the professors and instructors are very educated and interested in assisting students. My experience has been fantastic... I hope to change the education for my children with the knowledge I have gained."
Tiffany M Berryman, Graduated 2015
Sam Houston State University
Why We Like Them:
SHSU's online has one of the most affordable tuition rates at just $4,804 — a very accessible price point among online master's programs in this field. Complementing its affordability is SHSU's impressive student review rating of 4.15 out of 5 and 97% recommendation rate, indicating a high level of student satisfaction. The online TESOL master's program is designed for ESL/EFL professionals and requires 30 credit hours. Graduates also earn a certificate in Second Language Instruction, adding further value.
What Students Say:
"Sam Houston State University is a wonderful institution in which I learned a lot from over the course of my time there... The professors are overall amazing, especially in the Department of Education."
Kelly Davis, Graduated 2017
Fort Hays State University
Why We Like Them:
FHSU offers an online with a very low tuition of $5,587. The program is accredited by both the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), ensuring it meets high educational standards. The curriculum offers two distinct tracks: an ESOL endorsement track requiring 15 hours of coursework and a comprehensive MSE in ESOL track completing 33 hours. Both tracks are designed to be fully online and include a culminating field experience.
What Students Say:
"I decided to pursue my education through the virtual school. All of my classes were online. The professors were extremely understanding and the staff was helpful. Best of all, the tuition was extremely affordable."
T. Reed, Graduated 2016
Southeast Missouri State University
Why We Like Them:
SEMO's features a competitive tuition fee of $6,319, making it a financially viable option. Coupled with a recommendation rate of 91%, you are likely to benefit from a supportive and fulfilling academic environment. What sets the program apart is its practical focus; it includes a practicum where you can gain real-world experience by teaching at a selected site and constructing a tailored curriculum. Example courses include Sociolinguistics, Theories of ESL/EFL Learning, and Methods and Curriculum Design for ESL/EFL, ensuring you're well-equipped with the pedagogical skills needed in the field.
What Students Say:
"The university as a whole was great and generally student-centered. There are many different resources and opportunities to get connected. Most of my professors were very willing to help when I needed, and the education program is very well respected in the region and throughout the state."
Joey B., Graduated 2013
Huntington University
Why We Like Them:
Huntington's online has a remarkably low tuition at $6,963 and an impressive average financial aid package of $19,686 and 100% of students receiving aid, indicating their commitment to accessible education. The program's unique structure is another commendable aspect, as it combines TESOL/EL certification with ministry courses, ideal for those looking to integrate their teaching skills in ministry contexts. The curriculum requires only 33 credit hours to complete, which can be achieved in less than two years.
What Students Say:
"The faculty is extremely open to all students—we can text or call them at any time to ask questions. Faculty has shown true concern for all students. Education goes above and beyond minimum standards."
Samantha Ylagan, Graduated 2018
Marshall University
Why We Like Them:
Marshall earns its spot on our list due to its exceptionally affordable tuition of $7,635, positioning it as one of the most cost-effective choices for an online . This remarkable affordability is coupled with the university's high recommendation rate of 93%, ensuring strong positive feedback from alumni. Another aspect we value is the program’s flexibility, offering tracks for both licensure and non-licensure paths. A 75-hour field practicum allows you to gain practical experience, tailored to fit your specific location, enriching your learning experience.
What Students Say:
"Marshall University is an excellent school. The professors have an aptitude for helping their students succeed and a strong desire to watch each of them grow."
Christina Boland, Graduated 2019
Campbellsville University
Why We Like Them:
Campbellsville's tuition for the online is only $7,776, making it a financially viable option. This tuition ranking is complemented by generous financial aid packages, with students receiving an average of $19,794, which is in the top 21% of schools. The program consists of 36 credit hours and can be completed in as little as 18 months, providing a quick pathway to advancing your career. Accredited by both CAEP and Kentucky Education Professional Standards Board (EPSB), the program ensures quality education standards.
What Students Say:
"Campbellsville University is a Christian school that is culturally diverse, which the latter I am extremely thankful for... It helped me see the world from different points of view. It helped me appreciate the different cultures of the world."
Taylor Harvard, Graduated 2019
Kennesaw State University
Why We Like Them:
KSU's affordable tuition, set at $7,860, distinguishes it as an excellent option for obtaining a online without significant financial strain. The school also benefits from a strong recommendation rate of 85%, underscoring positive student experiences and satisfaction. The TESOL master's program requires a set number of credits and includes pertinent coursework designed to prepare educators for licensure. This ensures that your educational pursuits are aligned with professional standards and real-world applicability.
What Students Say:
"Evening classes for people working full time. Professors with strong backgrounds."
Staci, Graduated 2016
Western Governors University
Why We Like Them:
WGU's online has a low tuition of $7,950. Additionally, its competency-based education model allows you to progress through your coursework at your own pace, which could potentially shorten the time to graduation. The university excels in offering substantial online enrollment, as evidenced by the 156,935 students studying remotely, situating it in the top 1% for online enrollment among universities. WGU’s online MA in ELL is nationally recognized by the TESOL International Association, ensuring you receive a quality education that meets rigorous standards.
What Students Say:
"Very affordable, appropriate for students who can teach themselves and excel independently... Self paced but has to be able to still meet deadlines and be self motivated."
Alyssa Lane, Graduated 2019
Lamar University
Why We Like Them:
Lamar hosts an online with a tuition fee of $8,210. This makes it a highly cost-effective option for your advanced studies. Coupled with its high online enrollment of 9,132 students, the university demonstrates its capability to deliver quality education at scale, placing it among the top 3% of institutions with the largest remote learner populations. The program not only covers essential skills for educators but is designed to meet ESL specialization certification requirements. Courses include ESL Curriculum and Assessment as well as Understanding Language & Language Learning.
What Students Say:
"Their criminal justice and business programs are staffed by experienced professionals who personally helped me find internships. Overall, Lamar is a high-quality public university. I had a job waiting for me after college... This institution has enhanced my life by gaining me many close friends and wonderful memories."
Anonymous, Graduated 2022
Regent University Online
Why We Like Them:
Regent Online has a competitively low tuition of $8,475 for its online . Together with a substantial average financial aid package of $11,842, which places it in the upper echelons, the school demonstrates a profound commitment to making higher education accessible to students. Moreover, Regent is an outstanding choice for online learners, particularly military enrollees, as its online enrollment of 8,451 students places it in the top 4% of universities, and a significant military enrollment at 1,327 students highlights its strong support for military personnel.
What Students Say:
"Excellent online program. I obtained an EdS degree in a little over two years. The professors gave excellent input into my learning. The online courses are well designed. Advising was excellent and spirit-led. Christian ideals are interwoven into classes... I would definitely recommend this online university."
Michele, Graduated 2019
Murray State University
Why We Like Them:
Murray State's online has a tuition fee of just $8,640. This cost-effectiveness places MSU among the most accessible options for advanced education. Importantly, every student receives financial aid, with an average package of $11,560, highlighting MSU's commitment to making education accessible for all. The online master's in TESOL program emphasizes practical and flexible learning designed for working professionals, offering part-time online classes. Not only is it a long-standing leader in TESOL education in Kentucky, but Murray has a 100% recommendation rate.
What Students Say:
"Murray State University is a school that not only had the degree that I sought, but also had wonderful people there that helped me pursue my dream. Professors are super friendly and truly want you to succeed in your choice of degree, and are willing to help you choose the best classes."
Brooke Dillon, Graduated 2016
SUNY College at Cortland
Why We Like Them:
SUNY at Cortland makes a strong case for affordability in higher education. With a tuition of $8,758, the online stands as an economically viable choice for your pursuit of a TESOL master's degree. Bolstering this is an 85% recommendation rate, indicating a high level of satisfaction amongst its graduates. Further enriching the academic experience is its specialized curriculum, which includes courses in second language teaching methods, bilingual education, and second language assessment.
What Students Say:
"I have so many positive things to say about this educational institution... My major classes enabled me to make authentic connections with my peers and professors."
Brooke, Graduated 2020
Ohio Dominican University
Why We Like Them:
ODU's online has a tuition of $8,993 as well as an average financial aid package of $23,646 — placing it in the top 16% for financial aid generosity. The program offers flexibility with options for a 100% online format, on-campus, or a hybrid approach, accommodating various student needs. Additionally, ODU's TESOL program is inclusive, providing endorsements, licensure, and certificates apart from the master's degree. The curriculum is designed to meet diverse educational requirements, equipping you to teach English both in the U.S. and globally.
What Students Say:
"Ohio Dominican University was amazing! They gave me so many opportunities to have firsthand experiences in the classroom with children. All of the professors were former elementary teachers, so they offered so much insight."
J., Graduated 2013
Highest Rated by Students
Alumni reviews offer valuable insights into student satisfaction. To qualify for our list, schools must have at least 20 reviews on OnlineU or GradReports and a minimum rating of 3.5 out of 5. All colleges featured with ESL master's programs online have a recommendation rate of 86% or higher.
Georgia State University
Why We Like Them:
GSU distinguishes itself with a review rating of 3.83 out of 5, highlighting student satisfaction and program quality. Additionally, the university's strong recommendation rate of 86% underscores the positive experiences of graduates. The online requires 36 semester hours and is grounded in educational theory, research, and practical teaching experience, integrating principles of social justice and equity. Graduates earn a Master of Arts in Teaching degree and a clear and renewable induction certificate in Georgia.
Indiana State University
Why We Like Them:
Indiana State has a strong review rating of 3.8 out of 5, which is further bolstered by a remarkable recommendation rate of 91%. The is tailored to meet diverse professional goals. With 33 credits required to graduate, including research courses and elective options within the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics, you can customize your learning pathway to align with specific career aspirations. Special emphasis is on practical experience, facilitated through internships and faculty mentorship.
What Students Say:
"...I was a little reserved about attending classes online... I was pleasantly surprised to find the instructors accessible, the classes challenging, and the ease of enrolling and accessing material high. I would gladly refer anyone seeking a flexible school curriculum to Indiana State University."
Jessica Joslin, Graduated 2017
Featured Popular UUÖ±²¥s
Liberty University
- Online Enrollment: 48,101
Liberty University's Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) is a 30-credit hour, online program designed to equip you with the skills needed to teach English globally. Offering the benefits of 8-week courses and the option to transfer up to 50% of the required credits, this program emphasizes a market-driven approach to teaching within a Christian worldview. The program is competitively priced at $565 per credit for graduate full-time students, making it an affordable pathway to a fulfilling career in TESL.
Grand Canyon University
- Online Enrollment: 35,645
Grand Canyon University's MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is designed for licensed educators seeking to enhance their expertise in diverse classrooms. Offered through the College of Education, the program includes 32 credits, with tuition at $605 per credit. Courses, available both online and in-person, cover linguistics, multicultural education, and second language acquisition. A practicum is required for hands-on experience. Graduates can pursue ESL/BLE endorsements in Arizona, with 90% of U.S. employers seeking multilingual talent. The degree does not lead to additional licensure but expands career opportunities in education.
Western Governors University
- Online Enrollment: 49,193
Western Governors University's M.A. English Language Learning (PK-12) program is designed for licensed educators intent on obtaining an ESL or ELL endorsement. Recognized by TESOL International Association, this online program comprises 11 courses and requires a field experience component. Statistics indicate that 62% of graduates complete the program in 17 months, with tuition priced at $4,125 per six-month term. Graduates see an average salary increase of $9,437, underscoring the program's value. Flexible scheduling allows you to progress at your own pace, fostering growth in skills critical for educating diverse, multilingual students effectively.
Student Reviews of Online ESL Programs
I'm shocked by some of the reviews. I completed most of my program from overseas in China. My instructors were always which to respond, even though the tone change was inconvenient. The program was amazing as it prepared me in REAL TIME for the work I was doing. When I needed help getting the degree authenticated and sent to China, they were extremely patient and helpful in making that happen.
Review Date: 12/2/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Asbury University offers an excellent online education degree program that is perfect for both working individuals and parents! Potential employers that I have spoken with choose Asbury education graduates over all others in Central Kentucky. Asbury offers exceptional professors, personable staff, and an outstanding Christian based learning environment. With the help of Asbury University, I am well on my way to earning my masters degree as an educator of English as a Second language!
Review Date: 2/16/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
A great quality program that has a strong enough foundation to offer online as well. The program is intense enough to feel like you are really learning something and that you'll be prepared for a career. The administration for the school were always very helpful.
Review Date: 2/21/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Excellent university! The program was based on competency which meant I did not have to waste my time responding to discussion board posts or attending meaningless classes. I learned a lot. I improved in all areas of academia. I am better at my job because of it.
Review Date: 12/17/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
I have taken two classes with American College of Education thus far and enjoyed them both. The best point of this online graduate program is that it is convenient, inexpensive, and designed with educators in mind. It is tailored towards educators who are already in the field and are seeking professional development and education to further their educational effectiveness and career goals. So far the curriculum has not been unusually rigorous and there are some assignments which were not very applicable... Read More
Review Date: 3/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Pros - has distance learning programs and access to electronic library resources. Staff and faculty are available to answer questions. If any one of them are away, there will be another knowledgeable person to assist you. Con - the online platform takes some getting used to. An accessible tutorial would make adjusting faster and easier.
Review Date: 3/12/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
I am enjoying my experience at Newman University. I am taking mostly online classes because I work full time and I have three children. Taking on-line classes has given me the convenience of studying at home on my own time. Only a few of my graduate classes have been on campus with the option of joining on-line if unable to attend, which Ive had to do. We only meet four times during an 8 week period. The class I am currently taking will also meet four times on campus with the option of joining thru... Read More
Review Date: 1/18/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
The classes required for this degree are relevant and interesting. The instructors are knowledgeable and helpful. I also felt very comfortable in asking my advisor questions concerning all aspects of Capella. Since all my classes are online, I've also had experience with the technology support team, which is great!
Review Date: 9/27/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
The MA TESOL Program at Campbellsvi University is excellent! The program consists of four terms, each eight weeks in length. You can choose to take one or two classes per term. It is possible to finish the program in one calendar year by take two classes each term.
Review Date: 12/7/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
I am currently enrolled at Capella University working toward a second master's degree. The rigor at Capella is intense, (or maybe I am too old). The instructors are very knowlegdable. The technical support is available 24/7 and they have always been able to solve whatever problem I encounter. I would recommend Capella to anyone pursuing a degree.
Review Date: 9/17/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Having the opportunity to complete my education online has given me the chance to achieve my dream in becoming an English as a Second Language Teacher. Although I wish I could attend my university in person, I think this is a wonderful opportunity to better myself as an educator. The only con of this school is that they do not seem to be very military friendly when it comes to scheduling and providing documents.
Review Date: 3/13/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Pros of the TESOL online program are incredible classmates from all over the world with a range of backgrounds and teaching experience. The workload is heavy but effective for helping one learn. Cons are simply the time one has to spend tied to a computer all week.
Review Date: 2/27/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
ACE offered excellent advice regarding research. The coursework was challenging and rewarding. Overall, I highly recommend this program - especially to teachers currently working in the field. Concepts learned could be applied immediately to active learning environments.
Review Date: 5/3/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
I'm only just starting out my time as a student here, but I have already been pleasantly surprised by the helpfulness and accessibility of the staff. This is a tough program, but well worth the work and money.
Review Date: 1/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
I am currently completing my M.Ed Curriculum & Instruction: ESOL degree and will be done August 2016. I start in July of 2016. I have to agree that some professors are not very engaged, and others are awesome! Because it is online, a lot of the weight is put on your shoulders to pull your own weight, but almost every professor that I've had so far (in my 9th class) has been extremely helpful, resourceful, and willing to answer all my questions. One thing that I do not like about the online program... Read More
Review Date: 6/11/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Regent University is an excellent university with faculty who are the leaders and innovators in their fields. They have come from some of the most prestigious universities in the country and around the world. Instruction is research and data driven as well as faith based. The TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) degree is focuses on the latest theories and with supportive research on best practices in teaching phonetics, syntax, morphology and phonology as well as teaching methods... Read More
Review Date: 8/17/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
ACE is a fantastic school. I went here for my M.Ed and it was challenging yet incredibly relevant and rewarding. The courses emphasize your own classroom/school/district and you end up leaving with practical skills that will help you improve your teaching immediately. I am returning to ACE to continue my studies and have recommended ACE to my co-workers and family members. The offices and advisors are very responsive and helpful, which means a lot to those of us who work full time, take classes,... Read More
Review Date: 2/19/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
The online distance learning program is amazing. It is a wonderful option for the nontraditional student. The professors are experts in their area and encourage/facilitate online learning and dialogue. Professors get back to you quickly and are easy to with. It is easy to post and submit assigments through the Blackboard feature on the UC website. Group work is even completed online with other students in your class.
Review Date: 10/18/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
I appreciated the accessibility of the online format. I have not felt very challenged so far in the program. I enjoy learning the material; it seems well-adapted for the degree.
Review Date: 11/2/2014
Would Recommend: No
Although Canisius College is a private school and viewed as a pricey college to attend, it really does provide convenience when furthering your education. For example, I wanted to continue working full time while receiving my master's. I did not want to apply to the cliche online institutions because I just didn't feel it was the right path for me. When I found out about Canisius' online master's programs, I immediately started researching the possible options I could take in order to benefit my... Read More
Review Date: 8/6/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Overview of ESL Master's Degrees
Teachers interested in working with non-English speaking students often choose a career path in English as a Second Language (ESL), also known as English Language Learning (ELL). Students and entry-level professionals wanting to further their knowledge in this career can pursue a master’s degree in ESL. With this degree, students can apply for higher-level positions in ESL, which comes with a significant increase in their annual salary rate. In addition, an online Master’s in ESL is recommended for busy professionals who need schedule flexibility when working on their graduate degrees.
What Is a Master’s in ESL?
A Master’s in ESL prepares students to work with children or adults whose primary language is not English. In addition, this program can provide an ELL or ESL certification, which is sometimes required for teachers to work in certain school districts. While a master’s degree is unnecessary to become an ELL/ESL teacher, obtaining a graduate degree in ESL can lead to opportunities for career development, such as leadership roles and higher salaries.
Online master's degree programs in ESL are available to those who already have a teaching license and want to add to their knowledge and skill set. It's also for individuals who don't have a teaching background and want to begin a career as an ESL teacher.
This type of program will generally take two years to complete and consist of around 30 credit hours of study.
Coursework often involves classes like Language Structure and Acquisition, Linguistics, Language and Culture in the Classroom, and ESL for Children. Additionally, student teaching is also usually required. After earning a master's degree, graduates will be qualified to work as an ESL teacher to students from Pre-K to the twelfth grade. Those who are looking to earn a master's as a way to become a licensed teacher will need to check with their state for any additional requirements.
What Are the Requirements for an Online Masters in ESL?
To be admitted to one of these programs, an applicant will need to have earned a bachelor's degree, and depending on the program, this degree may or may not need to be in a related field. Depending on the nature of the program, the applicant may also need to have a teaching license and work experience in the field.
The admission requirements for an online Master’s in ESL can vary depending on the institution, but the following criteria are commonly requested:
- Application fees
- GRE scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Official or unofficial transcripts from an accredited institution
- Teaching license
- Valid government-issued ID
- Work experience
What Courses Will You Take in an Online Masters in ESL Program?
An online Masters in ESL program provides students with an overview of the skills and knowledge to excel in the ELL/ESL field. While each institution offers a variety of courses, the majority focus on the following areas: ESL for children, linguistics, language acquisition, curriculum development, instructional planning, language assessment, and research. In addition, students may be required to complete a capstone project before graduation.
Below we list some of the most common courses offered in an online masters in ESL program:
ESL Field Experience
Becoming an ESL teacher requires the ability to communicate with students in order to deliver the best learning experiences. ESL Field Experience is a standard course within an online master's in ESL program. In this course, students receive immersive, hands-on experiences working in the ESL profession. They are supervised by teachers while conducting face-to-face interactions with children in the classroom.
Second Language Acquisition (SLA)
This course provides a detailed overview of the different theories surrounding SLA. Students learn about factors like culture, learning environments, and more, which can influence the adoption of a second language. The course equips students with knowledge to assist others in learning a second language.
Methods and Materials of Teaching ESL
This course provides students with the theoretical foundation for teaching ESL by exposing students to the current and most popular teaching methods available. Students also review techniques and strategies, such as direct method, communicative language teaching (CLT), and total physical response (TPR). Additionally, students are often required to design and present micro-teaching lessons throughout the course.
Phonology for ESL Teachers
This introductory course provides students with a deeper understanding of English phonetics and phonology. Faculty help students improve their expertise in language and speech perception. Students learn how to apply the knowledge provided in the course to teach proper pronunciation to ESL learners of all ages.
Topics in Applied Linguistics
Applied linguistics is an umbrella term for various topics within the discipline. In this course, students learn about the social contexts of language, SLA, language and culture education, discourse analysis, and much more. Depending on the program, students may be required to complete a research project for a chosen topic in applied linguistics. By the end of the course, students can identify applied linguistics theories and constructs, which can later be used to design effective lesson planning and implementation for ESL learners.
Teaching Adult Language Learners
This course teaches students how to deliver the most practical teaching experiences for adult ESL learners. Students will learn about setting goals, implementing practices, and understanding the principles needed to address the needs of adult learners from different backgrounds. At the end of the course, students better understand how to evaluate and implement the best teaching practices for adult learners.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in ESL?
With a master’s degree in ESL, graduates are eligible for many mid- and senior-level positions. For those who want to take their ESL/ELL knowledge beyond the classroom, their master’s degree in ESL provides them with opportunities to gain the expertise needed to excel in other industries.
Graduates can pursue many career opportunities, such as the ones listed below:
Interpreters and Translators
act as middlemen who convert verbal and written communication between two parties when there are language barriers. These professionals can work in several settings, such as hospitals, care coordination agencies, education, insurance, courtrooms, etc. Interpreters and translators primarily work part-time schedules, as the demand for these professionals can vary based on opportunities.
Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers
In this profession, teachers work with adults whose primary language is not English. design and implement lesson plans covering basic fundamental skills, such as speaking, reading, and writing English. Additionally, these professionals can help youth graduate high school or complete their GED by improving their English language skills.
Instructional Coordinators
, or curriculum specialists, ensure that educational material and teaching methods meet local, state, and federal requirements. Some of their responsibilities include monitoring teachers, reviewing analytics, and meeting with school staff to discuss areas for improvement. Instructional coordinators typically work in school and government settings in a full-time position. This position is one of the highest earning professions for graduates with a master's degree in ESL.
Social Workers
These professionals assist people of all ages when it comes to finding resources that improve their health, living environment, and much more. can choose to specialize in certain areas, such as childcare, disability, or medicine. Depending on where the social worker resides, they may be required to have a license to practice. This profession can work in various settings, such as schools, hospitals, government sectors, and child welfare agencies.
FAQs About Online Master’s in ESL Programs
Can You Earn a Master’s in ESL Online?
Yes, there are many master's in ESL programs you can take online, including those from the accredited schools on our rankings list. If you work part or full time, an online degree program often offers the flexibility to complete coursework at your own pace, and it's also a more affordable option in most cases.
What Major Do You Need to Teach ESL?
Students can come from different specialties to teach ESL, though certain degrees are preferred by graduate programs and hiring managers. A bachelor’s degree — specifically in specialties such as ESL, TESOL, Elementary Education, Education, Linguistics, or a related major — is recommended to teach ESL. Having a bachelor’s degree in ESL provides a solid foundation before students pursue a master’s degree in ESL.
How Much Can You Earn as an ESL Teacher?
Becoming an ESL teacher with a master’s in ESL can lead to a high earning potential for new graduates. The median annual salary for an is $59,720 (or $28.71 an hour). However, this rate varies depending on candidates' location, educational background, and work experience.