Master of Education in Teaching English as a Second Language

Concordia University's College of Education, in conjunction with the Department of International Studies, offers a Master of Education in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL). This 30-33 hour Master's program is a combination of theory and practice offered for the teacher not working in a K-12 classroom, but primarily in other venues that work with second language learners.

Program Objectives

In addition to meeting the objectives for all M.Ed. programs, successful foreign candidates in the M.Ed. in TESL will:

  • Gain expertise in teaching English as a foreign or second language
  • Develop an appreciation and understanding of English and its structure
  • Learn the latest theories and techniques for teaching a second language
  • Develop competence in using English as well as improvement in their ability to teach a foreign language

American students who complete this program will:

  • Possess the qualifications to teach in ESL programs in community colleges or universities, social service agencies, and churches
  • Possess the additional knowledge and skills to help them seek employment in foreign countries as teachers of English as a second language

This degree does not meet requirements for state public school certification. Candidates who are interested in teaching TESL in K-12 public schools in the United States should already have completed a teacher certification program. Option B is recommended for K-12 licensed teachers.

M.Ed. in TESL Core Courses (27)

  • EDU 534 Professional Planning Seminar (1)
  • EDU 535 Theories of Teaching & Learning (3)
  • EDU 546 TESL Methods (3)
  • EDU 539 Linguistics (3)
  • EDU 541 Curriculum & Technology (2)
  • EDU 547 TESL Assessment (2)
  • EDU 585 Practicum (3)
  • EDU 544 English Grammar & Structure (3)
  • EDU 545 Strategies for Teaching English (3)
  • EDU 601 Education Research (3)
  • EDU 597 Professional Assessment Seminar (1)

Option A: Thesis (3)

In addition to the core courses, candidates will add either EDU 698 Action Research or EDU 699 Thesis.

Option B: Electives/Non-thesis (6)

In addition to the core courses, candidates will add six credits of electives. Choose two:

  • EDU 538 ESOL Methods (3)
  • EDU 540 Multicultural Counseling & Education (3)
  • EDU 595 Community of Learners (3)

Students in the non-thesis option will also complete a substantive research project as part of EDU 597. The guidelines for the project will be given to candidates in this option prior to EDU (601.)

Option C: International Education Component (3)

Students in this option will complete a EDU 587, TESL International Immersion Practicum. Students will spend a minimum of four weeks abroad teaching ESL. In addition, students will write a paper that they will present and defend for completion of the credits. International teachers cannot use their current employment for this option.

The international practicum follows similar guidelines to other College of Education practica. A Concordia University advisor monitors the student's work by computer and telephone, communicating with both the student and the student's on-site mentor/supervisor.