Enrolling in a master’s in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) online program can lead to many excellent opportunities. Graduates can pursue great-paying careers locally and abroad by learning how to teach English as a second language. This article discusses the top online TESOL graduate programs available now.
ESL teachers are increasingly in demand in elementary, middle, and secondary education. American universities actively recruit foreign students who require English instruction. Many international businesses also employ English language teachers. It’s becoming a common practice that enables smooth communication in a cross-cultural workplace.
There are plenty of opportunities to teach English as a second language both domestically and in countries around the world. So it’s easy to see this is a profession that will expand career options for those with an advanced degree in the field.
Online Opportunites for Teaching English as a Second Language Programs
There are many schools offering online graduate degrees in Teaching English as a Second Language. These programs are designed for busy working professionals like you. Online degree programs allow students to learn from anywhere in the world. And the flexibility of these programs means you can complete your studies at your own pace. But which online colleges are best for master’s TESOL programs? For students who want to pursue a master’s degree in TESOL online, we have compiled a list of the best programs in the nation.
Top Teaching English as a Second Language Master’s Programs Online Methodology
When developing our ranking for the best online Teaching English as a Second Language graduate programs, we considered many factors. First, we consulted the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). From there, we created a list of all US colleges offering online graduate degree programs in TESOL. We ensured that each school was regionally accredited. And we looked for those accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation. Next, we looked at details such as:
- Acceptance Rate
- Graduation Rate
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio
- Length of Program
Once we narrowed our list down to the 25 top online graduate programs for the online TESOL master’s degrees, we ordered them by cost. The rates listed are in-state graduate tuition prices per academic year. The cost for non-resident students may differ.
Our list begins with the most affordable online Teaching English as a Second Language programs and ends with the most costly ones. However, please note that all the schools on our list offer many financing options. There are lots of ways to pay for your graduate degree, including financial aid, scholarships, and grants!
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Top TESOL Masters Programs Online
| School | Tuition | Score | |
| 1. | Kennesaw State University | $5,238 | 100 |
| 2. | Southeast Missouri State University | $5,858 | 99.75 |
| 3. | Western Governors University | $7,452 | 99.50 |
| 4. | University of Southern Maine | $7,776 | 99.25 |
| 5. | Liberty University | $7,847 | 99.00 |
| 6. | Campbellsville University | $8,473 | 98.75 |
| 7. | Concordia University | $8,650 | 98.50 |
| 8. | University of Northern Iowa | $9,053 | 98.25 |
| 9. | Wilson College | $9,270 | 98.00 |
| 10. | University of Kansas | $9,989 | 97.75 |
| 11. | Hamline University | $10,120 | 97.50 |
| 12. | Grand Canyon University | $10,621 | 97.25 |
| 13. | University of Alabama-Huntsville | $10,632 | 97.00 |
| 14. | Northern Arizona University | $10,724 | 96.75 |
| 15. | California University of Pennsylvania | $11,108 | 96.50 |
| 16. | Trevecca Nazarene University | $11,235 | 96.25 |
| 17. | Arizona State University | $11,720 | 96.00 |
| 18. | Biola University | $12,006 | 95.75 |
| 19. | University of Maryland Baltimore County | $12,222 | 95.50 |
| 20. | University of Missouri-St. Louis | $12,528 | 95.25 |
| 21. | Eastern University | $13,716 | 95.00 |
| 22. | Azusa Pacific University | $16,571 | 94.75 |
| 23. | Mercy College | $16,974 | 94.50 |
| 24. | St. Johns University | $30,666 | 94.25 |
| 25. | University of Southern California | $60,446 | 94.00 |
Reviewing the Quickest Online Master’s TESOL Programs
Kennesaw State University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Marietta, Georgia
Kennesaw State University students can enroll in a MAT in Teaching English as a Second Language that is 100 percent online. This 39-credit-hour program is designed to be completed in four to seven semesters. So students can finish up their online master’s in TESOL in as little as 18 months. This completion time makes it among the fastest master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages program on our list.
This TESOL online master’s is for students with a bachelor’s degree without certification or an educational background. Successfully completing the program qualifies participants for initial teaching certification. The program focuses on teaching linguistically and culturally diverse K-12 students. Some of the core courses include:
- Cultural Issues for ESOL Teachers
- Psychological Foundations of Education
- Applied Linguistics for ESOL Teachers
- Methods and Materials for Teaching ESOL
- Assessment of English Language Learners
- Collaborative Practices with Families, Schools & Communities
- Language, Power, and Pedagogy
- Content Area Reading and Writing for English Learners
- Curriculum Development for Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Learners
- Effectively Supporting Students with Exceptionalities in Inclusive Settings
The last two semesters comprise a year-long clinical intensive. Students will find placements within schools in their area.
KSU also has a second option for those interested in a Master’s in TESOL who already have a teaching certificate. It’s a TESOL M.Ed. program. This program is 100 percent online as well. And it enrolls a new cohort of teachers each summer. It is designed to be completed in two years.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $5,238
Score: 100
Southeast Missouri State University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Southeast Missouri State University offers a master of TESOL online. It’s offered through the College of Humanities & Social Sciences. This master’s in TESOL online is the perfect option for those who want to make an impact in an increasingly diverse world.
This online teaching English to speakers of other languages program requires a total of 33 credits and takes an average of two years. However, students will consult with their advisors to construct a program that aligns with their goals. Some of the courses in this online Master’s in TESOL include:
- Sociolinguistics
- Theories of ESL/EFL Learning
- Methods and Curriculum Design for ESL/EFL
- Research Methods in Teaching English as a Second Language
- Approaches to the Teaching of Grammar
- Materials Development & Assessment Tools for TESOL
- Foundations in Linguistics
All students in the program will complete a practicum at a site of their choosing. During this hands-on experience, they will create a curriculum based on the needs of the ESL students there.
This online master’s in TESOL prepares teachers to teach ESL for K-12 students as well as at the college or university level. All participants will have personal attention from experienced faculty. They will also receive preparation and guidance for their career search.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $5,858
Score: 99.75
Western Governors University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Salt Lake City, Utah
Western Governors University offers an online MA in English as a Second Language online. It’s one of the fastest teaching English to speakers of other languages programs available. And 62 percent of students finish it within 17 months. The program serves as a direct path to ESL or ELL certification. Those who complete the program will graduate with the skills and knowledge needed to become valuable educators in the field. The online master’s is also recognized by the TESOL International Association.
A total of 11 courses are needed to complete the program. Some of these include:
- Language Production, Theory, and Acquisition
- Theories of Second Language Acquisition and Grammar
- Planning, Implementing, and Managing Instruction
- Assessment Theory and Practice
- Professional Role of the ELL Teacher
Additionally, all students will complete a supervised teaching experience during the program. They will also participate in 15 hours of video observations.
Students have access to program mentors to assist them throughout the program. You will build a degree plan with your program mentor to work toward your specific professional goals. Classes are asynchronous. So you will study on your own schedule as time allows. Once you’ve finished a course, you will complete an assessment to demonstrate mastery of the materials.
The TESOL masters online program has start dates on the first of every month. So you can jump in whenever you’re ready to begin. Financial aid and scholarships are available for this online master’s.
Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Tuition: $7,452
Score: 99.50
University of Southern Maine
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Online Master’s in Education in TESOL
Portland, Maine
The University of Southern Maine offers a fast online master’s TESOL program that candidates can complete in just ten months. It’s designed to help meet the needs and goals of a wide range of ESL professionals working in the field. That includes those who want to teach locally and abroad. The program is rooted in literacy theory and teaches best practices that students can apply in the classroom immediately. Additionally, this online Teaching English as a Second Language program demonstrates a 100 percent pass rate on the state Praxis ESOL Exam.
A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete the program. Some of the courses include:
- Linguistic and Cultural Diversity in the Classroom
- Aspects of the English Language
- Content-Based Curriculum for English Language Learners
- Research Methods and Techniques
- Aspects of Reading for Multilingual Learners
- Teaching Writing to Multilingual Learners
- Testing and Assessment
There are multiple start dates per year for this online Master’s in TESOL. This allows students to fit their studies conveniently into an already-busy schedule. No GRE is required. However, students must have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum GPA of 2.5 to apply for the online master Tesol program.
Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition: $7,776
Score: 99.25
Liberty University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Lynchburg, Virginia
Liberty University offers a fully online MA in Teaching English as a Second Language that can be completed in as little as 12 months. The online master’s provides graduates with a broad range of skills in linguistics and second language acquisition. In addition, students gain the knowledge to work with students from various language backgrounds. And they learn how to create fun learning environments to help their ESL students thrive.
Courses are delivered in eight-week sessions via Canvas. The required courses include:
- English as a World Language
- Cultural Anthropology
- Second Language Acquisition
- Introduction to Teaching English as a Second Language
- Methods & Materials for TESL
- Curriculum, Testing, & Assessment
- Teaching Grammar, Lexicon, & Pronunciation
- Applied Linguistics
Liberty also offers an MA in Linguistics TESL program that takes 1.5 years to complete. This program is excellent for those who want to pursue careers in AI, translation, military intelligence, and more. The online master’s focuses on advanced topics in the following areas:
- Semantics
- Pragmatics
- Phonetics
- Phonology
- Morphology
- Syntax
Both programs are asynchronous, allowing you to complete your assignments whenever you like. While there are deadlines for some of the work, you choose when and where you want to log in and study. It’s the perfect solution for busy working professionals who need flexibility.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $7,847
Score: 99.00
Campbellsville University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Campbellsville University offers an excellent MA in TEFL program. The program takes between 36 and 39 credit hours and takes approximately two years to complete. The degree provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to teach ESL in the US and internationally. Entirely online, it is led by expert instructors with real-world experience. Students can choose from a thesis or non-thesis option. Courses are eight weeks long and include the following:
- Introduction to Linguistics
- Language and Culture
- Linguistic Phonetics
- Contrastive Analysis
- Second Language Acquisition
- ESL/EFL Assessment
- Materials and Methods I: Speaking, Listening, and Pronunciation
- Materials and Methods II: Reading, Writing, and Grammar
- Discourse Analysis
- Modern English Grammar
Students will also complete a practicum course designed to provide hands-on experience during this online master’s. Upon successful completion, students will be prepared for a variety of careers. Examples include:
- ESL Instructor For Adult Learning
- Private Tutor
- ESL Teacher Abroad
- Assistant In ESL Classroom
- TESOL Teaching Material Writer/Editor
- ESL/TESOL Program Director
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $8,473
Score: 98.75
Concordia University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Seward, Nebraska
Concordia University offers an excellent online M.Ed. in TESOL program. The online master’s provides all the skills and knowledge needed to teach English language learners in a variety of settings. Students will learn culture, linguistics, theory, and leadership skills as they progress. Then, they will apply those skills to a practicum to gain hands-on experience.
The 30-credit hour program can be completed in 18 to 24 months. Classes are 100 percent online and offered in eight-week sessions. Some of the courses for the master in TESOL online include:
- ESL/ELL Instruction
- ESL/ELL Curriculum and Assessment
- Linguistics for Educators
- Language and Culture
- Research Evaluation and Design
- Second Language Acquisition
- Teaching ESL Writing
- Word Study: Decoding, Comprehension & Fluency
- Serving and Leading in Community and World
All candidates will complete a 45-hour practicum. During this clinical component, they will work with one or more ESL students in their own area schools or classrooms.
This online master’s degree prepares students to work with adult learners and K-12 students in the US and internationally. And if you already have an M.Ed., you can complete a 15-credit ESL endorsement in just ten months.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $8,650
Score: 98.50
University of Northern Iowa
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Cedar Falls, Iowa
The University of Northern Iowa offers an excellent online MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. This program prepares graduates to assist others in using English. And students will learn the skills need to work in business, cultural settings, and K–12 classrooms. In addition, it offers a direct opportunity for international and multicultural experiences.
The 33-credit master’s TESOL online program is designed to be completed in as little as 18 months. Courses are delivered using Zoom conferencing sessions and the Blackboard learning management system. Some of the online master’s courses include:
- Introduction to Linguistics
- Approaches to Language Learning and Teaching
- Cultural Aspects of Language and Language Teaching
- Introduction to Graduate Study in TESOL/Applied Linguistics
- Seminar in Language: Bilingualism and Bilingual Education
- Principles and Practices in Language Teaching
- Phonetics, Phonology, and Language Teaching
- English Grammar: Form and Function
All candidates in this online master’s will work closely with a program coordinator. The coordinator will assist in navigating the course sequence and help monitor the student’s work. Additionally, students have access to services such as:
- Personalized academic advising
- Student accessibility services
- The Learning Center
- The Rod Library
- Tech Support
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $9,053
Score: 98.25
Wilson College
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Wilson College offers a flexible online Master in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages program that is highly flexible. Students can complete all their courses online or choose a blended format and take some of them on campus. There are three options for this program:
Master’s Degree Without Certification: For those who are already certified and want to advance their knowledge in the field.
Master’s Degree With ESL Certification: For those who want to gain PK-12 Pennsylvania ESL certification.
ESL Certification Only: a 15-credit option for educators desiring PK-12 Pennsylvania ESL.
The online Master’s in TESOL is designed to be completed in about 18 months and requires 33 credits. Some of the required courses include:
- Best Practices and Effective Teaching
- Technology Integration for the Classroom Summer
- Language and Culture
- Applied Linguistics for TESOL
- Instructional Methods and Assessment
- Educational Research and Design
- Contemporary Issues in Education
- Differentiated Instruction
Wilson College has an impressive 13:1 student-to-faculty ratio. And most classes have less than 20 students. This means you will get plenty of direct interaction with your professors. In addition, the courses are asynchronous, so you can schedule your studies around your busy life. And if you need help, the school offers top-notch career services, students support, and wellness services.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $9,270
Score: 98.00
University of Kansas
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Lawrence, Kansas
The University of Kansas offers a 24-month online Master’s in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. The program helps students understand the basics of English language instruction in both EFL and ESL contexts. It also teaches bilingual education, linguistic analysis, and many other skills. There are three tracks available for this online master’s:
- Teacher Track (M.S.E.)
- Non-Teacher Track (M.S.E.)
- Licensure Endorsement-Only Track
Some of the courses in the program include:
- Foundations Of Curriculum And Instruction
- Understanding Research In Education
- Reading And The English Language Learner In Prek-12
- Multicultural Education
- Methods Of Tesol
- Assessment In Tesol
- Second Language Acquisition For Tesol Educators
- Problems In Second Language Instruction
- Linguistic Analysis For Tesol Educators
This 30-credit-hour program involves ten courses. And each class takes ten weeks to complete. Students will learn from the school’s renowned faculty in an innovative online format. This format has some unique features that make this one of the best online TESOL programs we’ve seen. For example, students participate in live video discussions. This allows them to share and collaborate with peers around the world. And custom software virtually simulates a real school district. In the simulation, students interact with a diverse range of students who have different learning needs. Additionally, you’ll be able to track the progress of your online master’s through the software.
All students complete a practicum experience. This involves a supervised teaching experience at an approved location in the student’s region. You will also create an online working instructional portfolio. This portfolio can then be applied to your work in the classroom.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $9,989
Score: 97.75
Hamline University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Online or Hybrid TESOL Master’s Degree
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Hamline University offers a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Master’s Degree that can be completed online or in a hybrid format. This is an excellent option for students who want to complete at least some of their studies on campus. Participants will learn to enhance their students’ second language acquisition skills. They will also learn to promote economic and social equity and access during this program.
This fast TESOL program can be completed in as few as 20 months and requires 36 credits. A few courses in the online Master’s in TESOL include:
- Linguistics for Language Teachers
- Language and Society
- Pedagogical Grammar and Discourse
- Exploring Learner Language and Second Language Acquisition
- Advanced Linguistic Analysis
- Research Design
The program is offered in two concentrations. They include one concentration for teaching adults and one for teaching K-12 learners. Some of the courses in the concentrations include:
- Teacher Leadership in TESOL
- Testing & Evaluation of English Language Learners
- English as a Second Language Methods Part II
- English Teaching Practices
- Course Design and Assessment
Students can choose either a thesis or Capstone project to culminate the program. This research project will be connected to the student’s professional goals.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,120
Score: 97.50
Grand Canyon University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Phoenix, Arizona
Students who want to study at Grand Canyon University can enroll in a Master’s in Teaching English as a Second Language. The program is available to acting teaching professionals but does not lead to licensure. However, it prepares students in best practices for teaching second language acquisition to students. All applicants must have access to a K-12 classroom with English language learners ELLS to complete the assignments.
A total of 32 credit hours are needed to earn this online master’s degree. And it takes about 18 months from start to finish. Courses are offered in a six-week format. Some of the core courses include:
- Introduction to Educational Research
- Brain-Based Learning
- Foundations of Instruction for English Language Learners
- School, Community, and Family Culture
- Linguistics
- Literacy in Bilingual Settings
- English Language Learner ELLS and Bilingual Curriculum and Methods of Instruction
- English Language Learner ELLS and Bilingual Assessment
- Methods of Teaching and Evaluating English Language Learners ELLS with Exceptionalities
All participants complete a three-credit practicum. It requires a total of 110 hours of practice-based and observational experiences. Students will work directly in their classrooms with English language learners ELLS or bilingual students.
The degree is offered through the College of Education. And it is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,621
Score: 97.25
University of Alabama-Huntsville
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Online Master of Education: ESOL Concentration
Huntsville, Alabama
The University of Alabama-Huntsville offers an online M.Ed with a concentration in Teaching English as a Second Language. This online master’s program focuses on supporting the needs of learners whose native language is not English. A total of 33 semester credits are needed to complete the program. It takes approximately 18 months. Instruction is delivered via UAH’s learning management system. Some of the courses include.
- Applied Multiculturalism
- Introduction to Applied Educational Research
- Introduction to Differentiated Instruction
- Advanced Cognitive Psychology
- Critical Issues in ESOL
- Using Assessment to Guide Differentiated Instruction
- Advanced English Grammar Studies: Applied English Linguistics
- Differentiated Strategies for Research & Teaching of English Language Learners
- Introduction to General Linguistics
- Advanced English Grammar Studies
Students in this program are required to complete a 300-hour internship demonstrating their ability to teach second language acquisition. They will meet with their advisor to design and plan the internship during the beginning of the program. The practicum will occur at their place of employment or an approved site near where they live.
To be considered for admission to the online master’s, students must:
- Hold a current teaching certificate in any area.
- Have a bachelor’s degree.
- Pass the GRE/MAT requirements or have three years of successful teaching experience. Alternatively, they may have a 3.0 cumulative GPA or another master’s degree.
Cohorts begin every May and August. Some students may be allowed to start in January with prior approval.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $10,632
Score: 97.00
Northern Arizona University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Flagstaff, Arizona
Students at Northern Arizona University can enroll in an online Master of Arts in AL/TESL. The online program combines practical training in teaching ESL with a theoretical foundation in linguistics. One of the significant benefits of this online master’s program is that it prepares students for a potential career abroad.
The degree has three tracks:
- Language Teaching: Prepares students for a full range of ESL and EFL teaching careers.
- Applied Linguistics: Prepares students for Ph.D. level study in applied linguistics
- Language Teaching for Practicing Teachers. Ideal for K-12 teachers who have already earned teacher certification.
A total of 37 credit hours are needed to complete the program. Students can expect to finish in about two years. Some of the courses include:
- Introduction to Language and Linguistics
- Sociolinguistics
- Fundamentals of Second Language Teaching
- Assessment for Second Language Skills
- Research Methods in Applied Linguistics
- ESL Methods and Materials: Listening & Speaking
- ESL Methods and Materials: Reading and Writing
- ESL Curriculum and Administration
- Cross-cultural Aspects of Language Learning
Over 90 percent of graduates of this program have obtained ESL/EFL teaching positions. NAU also offers an accelerated BA-MA program. Students can earn their BA in English and MA in AL/TESL in as few as five years.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $10,724
Score: 96.75
California University of Pennsylvania
Master’s in TESOL Online:
California, Pennsylvania
California University of Pennsylvania offers an online 30-credit ESL Master’s Degree. This program can be completed in as little as five consecutive semesters or 18 months. It’s designed to give students the skills to teach English to non-native speakers in the US or abroad. In addition, students will learn how to work across languages and cultures with the growing ESL population. The online master’s program prepares you to work with both adults and children in a variety of settings.
Some of the required and elective courses in this program include:
- Standards-Aligned Curriculum, Assessment, and Instruction
- Foundations of ESL Education
- Sociolinguistics
- Language Acquisition and Development
- Supporting Second Language Learners, Families, and Community
- Instructional Design and Strategies for Gifted Education
- Online Technologies in Education
- Strategies for Inclusive Classrooms
- Psychology of Growth and Development
PennWest California professors all have top certifications. They have years of practical experience teaching ESL in the US and internationally. Participants will complete their studies on their own schedules. However, they will still have plenty of opportunities to collaborate with fellow students online. And they will receive personal advising via email or telephone.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $11,108
Score: 96.50
Trevecca Nazarene University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Nashville, Tennessee
Trevecca Nazarene University offers a 100 percent online Master of Education in ESL. It’s designed for teachers who want to teach ESL in the K-12 setting. But it is also ideal for non-licensed professionals who plan to pursue a career as ESL specialists. There is also an endorsement option for students who prefer only to pursue certification. Both paths prepare students for the Praxis exam.
A total of 30 credit hours are needed to complete the program. And it can be finished in as little as 16 months. Students will also complete 30 hours of hands-on experience in ESL classrooms. Some of the required courses for this online master’s include:
- Teaching the Exceptional Learner
- Psychological Foundations of Learning
- Language Acquisition and Learning
- Trends, Models, and Methods in Instruction
- Authentic Language Curriculum Design
- Methods of Assessment and Evaluation for ESL
- Technology and Language Learning
The coursework is a blend of theory and practical application. Taught by TNU’s experienced professionals, it’s one of the best TESOL programs we’ve found.
While students in the program study remotely, they are never alone. Trevecca’s cohort model ensures that all participants are supported while they work toward common goals.
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Tuition: $11,235
Score: 96.25
Arizona State University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Tempe, Arizona
The online Master’s of TESOL at ASU is a 30-credit hour program. This fast TESOL program can be completed in one academic year with a heavy workload. However, students can complete the degree at their own pace. This practical program focuses on language, learning, research methods, and teaching. Graduates of the program will gain the skills and knowledge to succeed in various TESOL-related careers. They will be prepared for teaching jobs both locally and internationally. Courses are offered in 7.5-week sessions. Some of the topics covered include:
- Computer-Assisted Language Learning
- Curriculum Design
- Intercultural Rhetoric
- Language and Identity
- Language Testing and Assessment
- Learning Transfer
- Materials Development
- Nonnative English Speakers in TESOL
- Second Language Phonology
- Second Language Writing
- World Englishes
A 150-hour practicum internship is required. It consists of a supervised independent study completed over 15 weeks. This comes out to about 10 hours of onsite internship experiences per week. The work site must have a clear TESOL focus. It requires approval from the Director of Internships. Students will also complete the following:
- A professional TESOL e-portfolio
- Weekly group reflection work
- Final academic paper
Additionally, students will have several virtual meetings with the instructor throughout the semester.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $11,720
Score: 96.00
Biola University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
La Mirada, California
Biola University offers an Online Master of Arts in TESOL program. It’s designed to give individuals the skills to teach EFL/ESL in the US or abroad. Graduates will have the knowledge to instruct students of varying ages and skill levels. There is a strong focus on adult and young adult ESL learners in this course. The program also offers two additional specializations within the degree:
- M.A. in TESOL with Elementary ESL/EFL Specialization
- M.A. in TESOL with Young Learners Specialization
If taken full-time, students can complete this program in just four semesters. Part-time students can finish in six to eight semesters. Completing this degree in 16 months makes this program among the fastest master’s in TESOL degrees available. A total of 36 credit hours are needed. Some of the courses include:
- Teaching Second Language Reading and Writing
- Topics in TESOL: English for Academic Purposes
- Structure of English
- Materials Evaluation & Preparation
- Teaching English to Young Learners
- Course Design in TESOL
- Vocabulary Learning & Teaching
- Ethics, Values & Intercultural Communication for TESOL Professionals
- Second Language Acquisition
- English Language Teaching Methods
- Language Testing and Assessment
The program has start dates in August, January, and May. Financial Aid, scholarships, and grants are available for TESOL students:
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and Universities Commission
Tuition: $12,006
Score: 95.75
University of Maryland Baltimore County
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Baltimore, Maryland
The University of Maryland offers an online Master of Arts in TESOL. The program provides teachers with a practical and theoretical foundation in the following:
- Language Acquisition
- Educational Linguistics
- ESL/EFLMethods
- Cross-Cultural Studies
- Assessment
- Curriculum Development
The program includes three options: thesis, P-12 certification, or general track. It can be taken on-campus, online, or as a blended hybrid program. A total of 39 credit hours are needed to complete the program. Some of the course options include:
- Instructional Systems Development
- Teaching Reading and Writing to Beginning Learners of English
- Educational Linguistics
- Intercultural Communication and Sociolinguistics for TESOL
- Methodology of Teaching English as an Additional Language
- Language Assessment
- Structure of English for TESOL
- Second Language Acquisition
- Technology, Language, and Intercultural Communication
- Approaches to English Language Teaching for Adults
- Multilingualism
Additionally, the university offers a four-course Post-Baccalaureate TESOL Certificate. It is provided through the Department of Education. And it’s presented in cooperation with the Division of Professional Studies.
All students will complete a practical internship. The practicum will involve clinical field experience teaching in an instructional setting. The setting will depend on the student’s goals. It will also depend on whether they are planning to pursue certification.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $12,222
Score: 95.50
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Online Master of Education in Secondary Education WithTESOL Concentration
St. Louis, Missouri
USML offers an online Master of Education in Secondary Education with a TESOL concentration. It prepares teachers with the skills to teach English to linguistically diverse students. The core classes meet the state requirements for those with teaching certification. However, the entire program requires 30 credit hours. Some of the courses include:
- Examining History, Community, and Social Justice in Education
- Instruction, Learning, and Assessment
- Teacher Action Research I
- Foundations Of Teaching English To Speakers Of Other Languages
- Principles of Second/Foreign Language Acquisition
- Cross-Cultural Communication in the Classroom
- Assessment for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Methods and Materials for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- Methods and Materials for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Candidates are also required to complete a practicum. The practicum will provide valuable hands-on experience in the field.
Admission to the program is based on GPAs in the undergraduate major. Candidates must have a GPA of at least 2.75 in each of the three GPAs. However, students with GPAs below 2.75 may still be admitted on restricted status. The GRE is not required.
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition: $12,528
Score: 95.25
Eastern University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Online Master of Education in TESOL
St David’s, Pennsylvania
Students at Eastern University can enroll in an online Master of Education in TESOL. It is designed for those already certified in English as a Second Language Program Specialist (PK-12). However, those seeking TESOL expertise without a certificate can also complete the program.
Courses are 100 percent online. And depending on the courseload, students can complete the program in 12-18 months. All candidates will have an individualized program of study. The workload will depend on the number of credits transferred into the program. A total of 30 credit hours are needed for completion. The required courses include:
- Teaching English as a Second Language
- Theories of Second Language Acquisition
- Multicultural Education
- Language Testing and Materials Development
- Education in a Global Context
- Linguistics
- Early Literacy Foundations
- Research Design
All participants will also complete a 50-hour Capstone portfolio project. This field experience can be completed in the student’s own location with supervision. Courses are both synchronous and asynchronous. This allows for regular interaction between students, peers, and faculty members. Students in this program can also add an additional Autism Training module to broaden their teaching skills.
Eastern also offers an online Certification in ESL Program Specialist for PK-12. This program is for students who have already obtained an Instructional I certification. It takes approximately one year to complete.
Both programs offer multiple start dates in August, January, May, and June.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $13,716
Score: 95.00
Azusa Pacific University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Azusa, California
Azusa Pacific University offers a fully online TESOL Master’s Program that can be completed in just 18 months. It’s an asynchronous program that students can work on anywhere. All you need is a computer and a reliable internet connection. Candidates complete coursework on their own schedule. However, courses are completed sequentially in a cohort model. This allows participants to share a sense of community. Some of the required courses include:
- Critical Perspectives on Christianity and English Language Teaching
- Language Learning through Technology
- Second-language Acquisition
- Teaching English Grammar
- Teaching English Pronunciation
- Intercultural Communication and Language Teaching
- Sociolinguistics and Language Teaching
- Second-language Pedagogy
- Reflective Teaching
- Language Program Design
Students can begin the program during the summer, fall, and spring semesters. To graduate, candidates will complete an online portfolio. The portfolio will be submitted for review to demonstrate their mastery of the program. Three faculty members will review it and either approve it or suggest revisions. Additionally, students must complete conference and foreign language corequisites before graduating.
Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
Tuition: $16,571
Score: 94.75
Mercy College
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Online Master of Science in TESOL
Dobbs Ferry, New York
This online MS in TESOL program is offered through Mercy College in New York. The program leads to initial professional certification. Track one is a 36-credit program for those seeking their first teaching certificate. And track two is a 33-credit program for students who already have a NYS teaching certificate in another content area. Some of the courses in the curriculum include:
- Child and Adolescent Literature
- Linguistics and Language Development
- Cultural Perspectives and the Teaching Process
- The Teaching of Writing and the Writing Process
- Theory and Practice in Bilingual Education
- Education Evaluation and Assessment
- Modern English Structure
- Methods and Materials of Teaching TESL
- Approaches to Literacy Instruction in Early Childhood through Adolescence
- Theory and Practice of Second Language Acquisition for Students with Disabilities
- Education in Today’s Schools
All students will complete a semester-long capstone experience in a local school. This clinical teaching and observation experience involves 10-15 hours of fieldwork.
Students who pursue this program will be equipped to pursue a wide range of TESOL-related careers. Graduates will be prepared to teach in schools, programs, and corporations in the US and abroad.
Students do not need a degree in education to apply for the program. A liberal arts bachelor’s degree is sufficient. However, those seeking certification must have 12 credits in a foreign language before applying.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $16,974
Score: 94.50
St. John’s University
Master’s in TESOL Online:
Online TESOL, Master of Science in Education
Queens, New York
St. John’s University offers a Master of Science in TESOL that is entirely online. This master’s requires a total of 33 credit hours to complete. Students can finish in as little as 18 months. This is a research and standards-based graduate program. And it is designed for educators who want to work with linguistically diverse learners. It focuses on both critical and creative pedagogy and best teaching practices. And it teaches multi-modal curriculum design and planning. The program prepares candidates to become competent, caring professionals in the field.
Some of the courses in this program include:
- Foundations of Bilingual and Second Language Education
- Psychology and Sociology of Language and Bilingualism
- Human Development in Cross-Cultural Perspective
- Literacy Development for First and Second Language Learners
- Content Area Instruction for Linguistically/Culturally Diverse Learners
- Linguistics for Teachers of English Language and Exceptional Learners
- Advanced Technology in Education
Students can complete this program from anywhere with a computer and internet connection. The classes are asynchronous, so you can log in to the virtual classrooms anytime. Although it’s online, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities to engage with classmates and instructors. Assignments and lectures are delivered via Blackboard.
St. John’s online students enjoy all of the excellent services as on-campus students. They have access to the same academic resources, mentoring, and career services. And the online courses are identical to those taught on campus. In addition, online students are eligible for scholarships and financial aid.
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $30,666
Score: 94.25
University of Southern California
Master’s in TESOL Online:
MAT–TESOL Online Degree Program
Los Angeles, California
The University of Southern California offers an online Master of Arts in Teaching-TESOL program. A total of 24 units are required to earn the degree. Full and part-time paths are available. And the program can be completed in 16 to 28 months. California residents can also add a World Languages Credential. Students take weekly, live online classes. However, there is also plenty of self-paced coursework. Some of the courses in this program include:
- Applied Linguistics for English Language Educators
- Theories of Language Learning and Teaching
- Assessment and Instruction for Diverse Language Learners
- Social Foundations of Language Education
- Approaches and Strategies for Language Teaching
- Technology Enhanced Language Instruction Design and Practice
Students will complete a 600-hour clinical practice seminar. The seminar will take place at a school or site in your own community over two terms. Students will also complete a teaching practice course. The course develops skills in lesson planning, curriculum development, and classroom management.
Candidates can expect strong career support services during and after the program. All students will be connected with a career services specialist. The specialist will help them in their job search. Students can also access mock interviews, job sourcing, hiring webinars, and more. These services are designed to help students find satisfying employment upon graduating.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Tuition: $60,446
Score: 94.00
This concludes our ranking of the top affordable master’s in TESOL programs online.
NPCO Staff, December 2022
