TESOL, M.A.
Program Description
English has become the most widely used language in the world today, particularly in the areas of science, commerce and education. Tens of thousands of students in developing countries are taught English in school. Thousands more study English in order to pursue careers or educational programs demanding English language skills. Refugees and immigrants to the United States desire English to survive and to establish themselves in their new homeland. There is thus a considerable demand for qualified teachers of English both here and abroad.
To help meet the need for trained Christian teachers of English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL), the Department of TESOL and Applied Linguistics offers two regular programs in TESOL: a Graduate Certificate in TESOL and an M.A. in TESOL. The programs are academically rigorous; yet focus on the practical aspects of teaching in a variety of settings. The department also seeks to serve teachers desiring to continue their professional advancement or upgrade their qualifications, and non-degree students interested in gaining basic teaching or tutoring skills, by offering a variety of separate courses, from introductory to advanced.
The M.A. in TESOL encompasses the goal of the certificate program plus the additional goal of broader academic training. Teachers are equipped for work in and beyond the classroom in administration, training, course design, etc.
The focus of the TESOL programs is post-secondary and adult education. Those interested in K–12 ESL in U.S. schools should consult with the School of Education.
The M.A. in TESOL is offered both on-campus and online, with three specializations offered:
