Master of Education in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)

The Master of Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program prepares exemplary educational leaders in the field of second language teaching and learning. Faculty are dedicated to providing candidates with in-depth knowledge of theories of second language acquisition and methodologies, which promote second language literacy and learning at all educational levels. Program faculty share the philosophy that teaching and learning is a lifelong process, as expressed by many educators. Our program models this philosophy by supporting the development of lasting professional relationships among classmates, graduates, and faculty. The theoretical and practical training offered in our master’s program allows students and graduates to work and teach in variety of language settings. We guide our students to construct their own educational philosophies within a framework which recognizes and values the many ways learners participate in and contribute to classroom learning communities.

Graduates of this program will be able to:

• Articulate theories, processes, and principles of second language acquisition and second language literacy.
• Examine the linguistic, sociocultural, cognitive, and psychological foundations of language and literacy.
• Identify instructional strategies and materials that promote the acquisition of language and literacy for English language learners (ELLs).
• Evaluate informal and formal assessments for ELLs.
• Engage in reflective analysis of personal beliefs and systematic inquiry into diverse cultures in order to construct a pedagogy in which diversity is an explicit part of the curriculum.
• Integrate technology to enhance the learning opportunities of ELLs.
• Conduct research in second language learning and teaching.

Applicants seeking admission to the graduate program in TESOL must submit the following directly to the Office of Graduate Admissions:

1. Graduate Application
2. Application fee
3. Official transcript(s) from the baccalaureate degree granting institution
4. One letter of recommendation
5. Writing sample (i.e. 1-2 page letter of intent describing reasons for choosing to pursue a M.Ed. in TESOL, etc.)

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) marketable skills initiative is part of the state’s 60x30TX plan and was designed to help students articulate their skills to employers.  Marketable skills are those skills valued by employers and/or graduate programs that can be applied in a variety of work or education settings and may include interpersonal, cognitive, and applied skill areas.

The MEd in TESOL is designed to provide graduates with the following marketable skills:

• Cross-cultural communication skills.
• Intercultural competence skills.
• Critical awareness and thinking skills.
• Reflective practitioners.