Location:

Chicago, United States

Program Type:

Full Degree

Degree Level:

Master

Specialty:

Teaching English

Program Overview

Program Description:

The M.A. in Teaching English as a Second/Foreign Language gives students an understanding of the nature of language, culture, instruction, assessment, and professionalism, and their interrelationships. The M.A. in TESL/TEFL prepares one to teach English in the U.S. or overseas. Within the United States, our graduates teach ESL in public and private schools, as well as in city and community colleges and adult education programs. English language learners are the fastest growing group of students in the United States today. Careers • Pre-K- 12 public and private schools • College-level ESL instruction • Continuing adult education • Program administration • Curriculum development • Research • Publishing • Doctoral study • Government agencies • Curriculum development All students pursuing a Master of Arts in TESL/TEFL will be required to submit a graduation project (capstone). Students can choose from two options: a thesis and a non-thesis option. Course Requirements, distributed among 5 domains (30 cr.) 1. Language TESL-402 Principles of Linguistics for Teachers TESL-420 Structure of Modern English TESL-426 Advanced Linguistic Analysis 2. Culture TESL-445 Language Variation TESL-447 or another culture-related course 3 Planning, Implementing, and Managing Instruction TESL-410 Techniques of Teaching English One other course 4. Assessment TESL-468 Assessment of the Limited English Proficient Student 5. Professionalism TESL-414 Theories of Teaching ESL TESL-460 Second Language Acquisition Plus six hours of electives in the department. Students choosing to write a thesis will get six hours of thesis credit and take two fewer electives with the approval of the graduate adviser.

Additional Program Information

Accreditation:

The University has regional accreditation through the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Schools and Colleges. In addition, the university also is accredited through several disciplinary bodies.

Financial Aid:

Yes

Requirements:

Applicants must meet the general requirements for admission to the College of Graduate Studies and Research. Students entering the M.A. in TESL program are not expected to have any prior preparation or knowledge of the field. For students whose native language is English: 9 hours of college level work—or the equivalent—in one or more foreign languages, or a demonstrated proficiency in a foreign language at ACTFL level 2 or above. For students whose native language is not English: English proficiency demonstrated by a score of 95 on the internet based TOEFL (IBT), with a minimum of 20 on each of the four sections. GRE: Not required