Depending on the source of information, English is either the 2nd or 3rd most spoken language in the world as far as native-born speakers. When you factor in non-native English speakers (that is, people who picked up English after other languages), that pushes English to the 2nd most spoken language in the world — a fairly significant jump. It is also a significant language of business in many countries, and thus there is a steady demand for English teachers for bilingual/ multilingual speakers around the world and here in the USA. As well, as of fall 2015, in the United States, nearly 10% of public school students were classified as ELLs (English Language Learners) – and higher in specific states.
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Whether you want to stay stateside or travel the world and teach English to school-age children, college students or adults, an online master’s degree in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) or similar might be the perfect graduate degree for your career.
Careers in TESOL/ TEFL/ TESL
These Education/ English degrees go by a number of similar names: TESOL; TEFL; TESL; and so on (see Terminology, below). For convenience, we may use the term TESOL as an umbrella term in this article. Below, we look at 25 of the best, most affordable, accredited, online masters degrees in English language learning studies for speakers born into other languages. The list directly below provides a partial list of potential careers or work environments for graduates of such online degree programs, compiled from the Web sites of the 25 colleges in this ranking. The online masters degree rankings start after the Methodology section.
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- Assistant, ESL classroom
- College ESOL Instructor
- Consultants (federal and state government agencies)
- Corporate Trainer (multinational companies)
- EFL Teacher
- ELL Teacher
- ELL/ESL Specialist
- ESL Curriculum Developer
- ESL Curriculum Supervisor
- ESL Instructor, English language training institutes
- ESL Instructor, adult learning
- ESL Instructor, immigrant- and refugee-centric non-profit organizations
- ESL Professor
- ESL Specialist
- ESL Teacher (elementary, secondary)
- ESL instructor (adult learning)
- ESL/TESOL Program Director
- ESOL Specialist
- ESOL Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Employee Development Coordinator
- English Instructor
- English Tutor
- Foreign Language Teacher
- Instructional Coach
- Instructional Mentor (to other teachers)
- K-12 ELL Teacher
- Language Advocate
- Language Consultant
- Overseas Teacher/Administrator
- Peace Corps Volunteer
- Private Tutor
- TESOL Teaching Material Writer/Editor
- Tutor (schools, homes)
Affordable Degrees Ranking Methodology
Data for the colleges listed in this online master’s degree ranking article comes from NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) and IPEDS (Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System) Data Center, both maintained by the U.S. Dept of Education.
- Step 1: Query NCES for public U.S. institutions offering “distance” graduate programs in either “Teaching English or French as a Second or Foreign Language, Other” or “Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor”.
- Step 2: Refine the results with data from IPEDS, of colleges offering relevant online master’s programs.
- Step 3: Combine the two resulting data sets based on IPEDS ID.
- Step 4: Sort the candidate colleges initially on the basis of institutional average graduate tuition.
- Step 5: Select the first 25 institutions that offer relevant online/ hybrid/ blended masters programs (e.g., filter out candidates that either only offer a grad certificate, or which no longer offer a program despite being listed as such in NCES.
- Step 6: For each of the final 25 institutions, find/ estimate the in-state program cost, using tuition, per-credit fees, per-course, and/or per-semester fees. (Excludes books, lab costs, housing, food, transportation and any additional fees.)
- Step 7: Sort descending, by estimated in-state cost.
NOTES:
- Actual tuition for a master’s in TESOL/ English language learning studies at a given institution may vary from what is listed here when fees or any institutional financial aid is factored in. Verify all costs and requirements before applying to any college/ university.
- The estimated in-state cost listed for each ranked college is based on graduate tuition plus per-credit, per-course, and per-semester fees when available.
- For programs in which cost is explicitly stated and includes fees without a breakdown, we have used this cost as is.
- For programs in which the tuition is variable on number of credits/ courses taken per semester and/or duration to complete, we have assumed six credits maximum per semester and calculated cost on that basis. (Six credits per semester potentially qualifies a student for FAFSA financial aid.
- For programs with variable credits based on track options, estimated cost is based on the minimum credit requirement.
- For programs with costs varying by semester, we’ve used the latest Spring or Fall rates, as available, or Summer rates otherwise.
- While we’ve applied the above rules to estimate program cost, some institutions listed may offer a lower cost through per-term tuition options.
- Some costs listed are only approximations based on information available from each institution’s Web site. There may be additional fees and incidental costs (books, food, lodging, transportation, etc.), and overall charges are subject to change.
Terminology and Acronyms
This is a partial list of terms and acronyms relevant to education-related degrees, particularly for language. Note: CAEP is a newer accrediting body and currently part of NCATE (see both below), and replaces both NCATE and TEAC. In the ranking entries in this article, we have left intact the reference to either based on usage by each institution.
- AAQEP – Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation
- CAEP – Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation
- ELL – English Language Learning
- ESOL – English Speakers of Other Languages
- FLA – First Language Acquisition
- IELTS – International English Language Testing System
- LEP – Limited English Proficient (refers to a category of students)
- NCATE – National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Accreditation (founded 1954)
- NGO – Non-Governmental Organization (non-profit)
- SLA – Second Language Acquisition
- SLI – Second Language Instruction
- SLT – Second Language Teaching
- SOL – Speaker of Other Languages
- TEAC – Teacher Education Accreditation Council (founded 1997)
- TEFL – Teaching English as a Foreign Language
- TESL – Teaching English as a Second Language
- TESOL – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
- TLP test – Target Language Proficiency test
- TOEFL – Test of English as a Foreign Language
Best, Most Affordable Online Masters Degrees in TESOL/ English as a Second or Foreign Language
See bottom right corner of infographic to expand to full-screen mode.
25. Spring Arbor University
Spring Arbor, Michigan
Spring Arbor University (SAU, est. 1873) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Free Methodist Church. In addition to this main campus, it serves students at multiple learning centers in Michigan and Ohio, and offers low-cost associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
SAU has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) with two tracks: K-12 (for certified teachers); Adolescent and Adult Education (for professionals).
This is a top-value, 33-credit, 100% online master’s degree program requiring no GRE/GMAT score for admission. It is designed for either American teachers or other ESL specialists intending to teach English, either locally or in other countries, either in educational settings (middle school, high school, community college) or a ministry-based setting. Students may hold any bachelor’s degree, and graduates qualify for the ESL Endorsement. (Michigan residents in the K-12 track qualify for state endorsement after completing 24 credits of core courses.)
Sample online courses include: Linguistics for Teachers of English; Cross Cultural Competence in Communication; Assessment and Evaluation of Language Minority Students and Programs.
- Cost: $20,274.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 3,436
- #grads: 1,629
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
24. Hamline University
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Hamline University (HU, est. 1854) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the United Methodist Church. It offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
HU has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA-TESOL) with two Concentration options:
- Teaching Adults – includes 8-credit certificate course or two 4-credit courses
- Teaching K-12 – for those seeking a K-12 ESL teaching license
This is an inexpensive, 36-credit, online master’s program delivered by the School of Education within the College of Liberal Arts offering a choice of Capstone or Thesis tracks, and expected to take at least 20 months (six terms). For admission, non-native speakers will require either a suitable TOEFL or IELTS score, or proof of a bachelor’s degree obtained from “an English-language university.” Additional admission requirements include proof of acquisition of a language other than English, either at the high school or college level.
Graduates of the K-12 track typically find employment in formal school settings in the USA, but also outside of school. Graduates of the Adult track may teaching in higher education (community college, university) stateside or globally, or through international corporations, non-profits, language schools (private), community programs and so on.
Sample core online courses include: Linguistics for Language Teachers; Language and Society; Exploring Learning Language and Second Language Acquisition.
Alternatives: Online grad certificates in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL); MA in English as a Second Language (ESL) for additional licensure.
- Cost: $19,764.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 3,526
- #grads: 1,420
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
23. McDaniel College
Westminster, Maryland
McDaniel College (MC, est. 1867) is a private, nonprofit institution. It offers affordable bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
MC has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master’s degree in Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
This is a low-cost, 36-credit, 100% online program which aligns with standards for both NCATE and TESOL, and which meets certification requirements for Maryland state. Students will have a choice of completing a TESOL Portfolio or Thesis Research in TESOL. Admission requirements include holding college credit (grad or undergrad) in cross-cultural studies (3 credits) and a modern foreign language (6cr). Individuals without a teaching certificate must have grad or undergrad credit in foundations of education (3cr) and Reading Methods at the Secondary Level (6cr). Graduates of this TESOL program may find career opportunities as ESOL, EFL or foreign language teachers, or government or corporate roles related to teaching or interacting with SOLs.
Sample online courses include: Foundations in English Learner Education; Assessment of English Learners; Methods in Teaching Reading to English Learners in the Content Areas.
- Cost: $19,060.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2,780
- #grads: 1,177
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
22. Sam Houston State University
Huntsville, Texas
Sam Houston State University (SHSU, est. 1879) is a public institution and a member of the Texas State University System. It offers economical bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
SHSU has one low cost online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Education (MEd) in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
This is an affordable, 30-credit, online, CAEP-accredited, master’s degree program delivered by the Department of Language, Literacy and Special Populations within the School of Teaching and Learning. It is aligned with TESOL standards and is aimed at ESL/ EFL teachers and awards a certificate in SLI. Graduates of the program will be qualified to teach ESL/EFL courses regardless of the age of the learner, from children to adults. Note: Cost per credit decreases with more credits taken per semester.
Sample online courses include: 2nd Language Acquisition and Development; Applied Linguistics in ESL/EFL Settings; ESL / EFL Methodology.
Alternatives: Online graduate certificate in Second Language Instruction.
- Cost: $1,8112.50 (estimated in-state program cost based on five semesters of six credits)
- #students: 21,213
- #grads: 2,715
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
21. University of Kansas
Lawrence, Kansas
University of Kansas (KU, est. 1865) is a public institution and a member of the Kansas State University System. It serves students at multiple campuses plus online and offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
KU has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Science in Education (MSE) degree in TESOL with two Track options:
- Teacher – for those holding initial teaching licensure in any state
- Non-Teacher – For educational professionals not seeking licensure, including administrators, advocates, consultants, government employees in TESOL-related roles
This is a high-value, 30-credit, online, NCATE/CAEP-accredited master’s degree program delivered by the School of Education and expected to take at least two years. Students will complete ten 8-week courses, including a master’s project and a practicum/ supervised teaching experience. The Teacher track prepares educators for both child (early childhood, PK-12) and adult English language learners. The Non-teacher track prepares graduates for relevant TESOL roles in administration, advocacy, consulting, government, etc.
Sample online courses include: Multicultural Education; Methods of TESOL; Assessment in TESOL.
Alternatives: Online graduate certificate program in TESOL (18-credit licensure endorsement-only option).
- Cost: $17,850.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 27,690
- #grads: 8,094
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
20. University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, Iowa
University of Northern Iowa (UNI, est. 1876) is a public institution governed by the Board of Regents State of Iowa. It offers best-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degree programs.
UNI has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts (MA) degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
This is an affordable, online master’s degree program with non-thesis (33-credit) or thesis (36-credit) tracks and includes a practicum.
Graduates of this low-priced, online master’s program collectively are both educators (English teachers in other countries, K-12 licensed U.S. teachers, community college English teachers, Intensive English program teachers worldwide) and advocates/ consultants (government, Egos) who are evaluating and/or developing curricula for English teaching programs.
Sample online courses include: Cultural Aspects of Language and Language Teaching; Introduction to Linguistics; Introduction to Graduate Study in TESOL/Applied Linguistics.
Alternatives: ESL Endorsement (standalone program); online MA in Teaching English in Secondary Schools (TESS); on-campus MA in TESOL/Spanish.
- Cost: $17,253.00 (estimated in-state program cost for 33 credits)
- #students: 11,187
- #grads: 1,651
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
19. Saint Cloud State University
Saint Cloud, Minnesota
Saint Cloud State University (SCSU, est. 1869) is a public institution and a member of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System. It offers high-quality associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – with over 60 grad programs alone.
SCSU has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts (MA) in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) with two Emphasis options: Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL); K-12 English as a Second Language Licensure (ESL).
This is an inexpensive, 36-credit, online master’s degree program delivered by the Department of English and offering a choice of thesis or “starred” papers (two). The online degree program prepares educators teach English both locally in the USA and internationally, and emphasizes SCSU’s own focus on cultural diversity into the degree. It is taught by faculty with teaching experience from around the world. High school or college experience learning a second language, plus an intro course in linguistics are amongst the requirements for admission. Admitted students seeking K-12 ESL licensure may be eligible for a TEACH Grant. Licensure-track grad students require completion of prior Minnesota teacher licensure exam ESL tests.
Sample online courses include: Seminar in TESL Methods; Theories in Second Language Acquisition; Seminar in Child Bilingualism.
Alternatives: MA in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL, licensure); graduate certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL, 9 credits, non-licensure).
- Cost: $17,000.00 (estimated in-state program cost based on listed full-time online total; lower for on-campus)
- #students: 13,928
- #grads: 1,800
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
18. University of Georgia
Athens, Georgia
University of Georgia (UGA, est. 1785) is a public institution and one of the oldest institutions in the country amongst publics. A member of the University System of Georgia, it offers low-priced bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UGA has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in TESOL and World Language Education.
This is a top-value, 36-credit, hybrid master’s degree program with some courses offered online. It is delivered by the College of Education and is NCATE-accredited. Topics covered include bilingualism, education policy, intercultural communication, language acquisition complexity, social justice. Non-native-English-speaking applicants will be considered on the basis of TOEFL or IETLS scores, or if they have either a bachelor’s degree in English linguistics and literature, or a master’s from a college with English instruction.
Sample online courses include: ESOL Service Learning; ESOL Methods for Adult Learners; Bilingualism and Bilingual Education.
Alternatives: Grad certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL); EdS in Education – TESOL.
- Cost: $16,650.00 (estimated in-state program cost, based on six semesters of six credits each)
- #students: 38,652
- #grads: 9,041
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
17. Wilmington University
New Castle, Delaware
Wilmington University (WilmU, est. 1968) is a private, nonprofit institution. It offers high-value associate’s through doctorate level degree programs.
WilmU has one affordable online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Science degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MS-TESOL).
This is a low-cost, 33-credit, 100% online master’s degree program with 8-week classes (or accelerated 7-week classes) and a fieldwork requirement. Grad students learn from program faculty who are active TESOL practitioners. The program is designed for both individuals with some previous language teaching experience and those with none. Typical career roles for graduates include curriculum developer, English tutor, ESL specialist, or a leadership role at an English language learning institute.
Sample online courses include: Theories of Language Learning; Foundations of TESOL Methods; Linguistics for TESOL. A Capstone in Teaching English is part of the curriculum.
Alternatives: Graduate certificate in ESOL; dual master’s program in Master of Education in Reading/ ESOL Literacy.
- Cost: $16,104.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 14,786
- #grads: 5,744
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
16. Carson-Newman University
Jefferson City, Tennessee
Carson-Newman University (CNU, est. 1851) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Tennessee Baptist Convention. It serves students at multiple locations plus online and offers economical associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
CNU has one low-cost online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Teaching English as a Second Language/International.
This is a high-value, 36-credit, online master’s degree program with a choice of thesis or non-thesis tracks, and requiring completion of a practicum. Expected timeline is at least 20 months (five semesters) and an ESL Endorsement is included. Typical career roles for graduates of this MEd include curriculum developer, curriculum supervisor, instructional coach or teacher mentor, amongst others.
Sample online courses include: Language and Culture; Introduction to TESL; English Phonology.
Alternatives: on-campus Master of Arts in Teaching: English as a Second Language (MAT-ESL) K-12 with or without licensure.
- Cost: $15,840.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2,560
- #grads: 786
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
15. Troy University
Troy, Alabama
Troy University (Troy, est. 1887) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher training institution. It serves students at two campuses plus online and offers top-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs – with over 70 online programs alone.
Troy has one low cost online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: Master of Science degree in Second Language Instruction (MS-SLI).
This is an inexpensive, 31- to 33-credit, 100% online master’s degree program with a choice of thesis or non-thesis (capstone) tracks, both with 9-week terms and a practicum requirement.
Admitted students have a bachelor’s degree in education, English, journalism, linguistics, psychology, sociology or some other language-related subject. This best-value, online master’s degree program is intended for anyone planning to teach either second-language acquisition or to train other such teachers, whether the language will be English or something else. This is a particularly useful skill for people involved in media, tourism, trade, etc., in a global capacity.
Sample online courses include: Introduction to Linguistics; Survey of Sociolinguistics for Second Language Teachers; Principles, Techniques and Materials in SL Teaching.
- Cost: $15,314.00 (estimated in-state program cost for 31 credits)
- #students: 16,981
- #grads: 3,529
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
14. Concordia University-Nebraska
Seward, Nebraska
Concordia University-Nebraska (CUN, est. 1894) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Lutheran Church–Missouri Synod. A member of the Concordia University System, CUN was originally founded as a teacher training school. It offers top-quality bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
CUN has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
This is an affordable, 36-credit, 100% online, NCATE/CAEP-accredited master’s degree program that is expected to take at least 24 months (8-week courses taken one course at a time, or 18+ months with some 2-course terms), and with a 45-hour practicum. It caters to the need for ESOL teachers both the in USA and elsewhere, for students who will be of any age range and background.
Sample online courses include: ESL/ELL Instruction; ESL/ELL Curriculum and Assessment; Linguistics for Educators.
- Cost: $15,300.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 2,424
- #grads: 588
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
13. Wilson College
Chambersburg, Pennsylvania
Wilson College (WC, est. 1869) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Presbyterian Church. It offers high-value associate’s through master’s level degree programs.
WC has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) with two Track options:
- No Certification (Project)
- ESL Certification (Practicum, Thesis) – leads to Pennsylvania PK-12 ESL certification
This is an economical, 30-credit online master’s degree program designed for PK-12-certified educators, with a choice of non-certification (project) or ESL certification (thesis) that is expected to take as little as one year. A practicum is required for the latter track. The program has no fees, only tuition, which may be reimbursed by the student’s school district. Graduates of the master’s will improve their teaching skills towards leadership through coursework, research and classroom practice.
Sample online courses include: Teaching English Language Learners; Applied Linguistics for TESOL; TESOL Instructional Methods and Assessment.
Alternatives: ESL certificate program (15 credits, includes practicum).
- Cost: $15,000.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 1,499
- #grads: 455
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
12. University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB, est. 1969) is a public institution and a member of the University of Alabama System. It offers low-cost bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UAB has one high-value online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) degree in English as a Second Language (ESL) with three Track options, plus language options (English, French and English, Spanish and English).
- Traditional – for teaching P-12; needs Class B certification in any field (elementary, secondary, special education)
- Alternative – for teaching P-12; needs Class B certification in a language
- TESOL – for teaching ESL to adult language learners in the USA
This is an inexpensive, 33- to 42-credit, online master’s degree program delivered by the School of Education. To acquire the state certification requires that a student be resident. The first two tracks are for educators who will teach ESL at the P-12 level. The TESOL track can be for either teaching ESL to American adults, or for teaching English to any age group in other countries.
Sample online courses include: Second Language Acquisition; Teaching ESL in a Multicultural Society; Grammar for ESL Teachers.
Alternatives: Online Educational Specialist (EdS) in TESOL; online graduate certificate in Teaching Multilingual Learners.
- Cost: $14,850.00 (estimated in-state program cost for 33 credits)
- #students: 21,923
- #grads: 8,087
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
11. SUNY College at Brockport
Brockport, New York
SUNY College at Brockport (Brockport, est. 1835) is a public institution and a member of the State University of New York System (SUNY). It offers economical bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
Brockport has one of the lowest-cost online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
This is a minimum 30-credit, 100% online, CAEP-accredited master’s degree program with a Practicum (20 days minimum) and 25-hour field experience (K-12 setting). The program requires NY state certification (B-2, 1-6 or 7-12) and prepares educators for a role as either an certified ESOL specialist stateside (school or district) or to teach English globally.
Sample online courses include: Methods for Teaching and Assessing English Language Learners; Diversity in Education; Methods, Materials and Cultural Perspectives in TESOL/Bilingual Education.
Alternatives: Online graduate certificate in TESOL (for master’s degree holders with NY state certification B-2, 1-6 or 7-12).
- Cost: $14,130.00 (estimated in-state program cost for 30 credits)
- #students: 8,287
- #grads: 1,230
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
10. Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, Georgia
Kennesaw State University (KSU, est. 1963) is a public institution and a member of the University System of Georgia. It offers high-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
KSU has one low cost online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL).
This is an affordable, 36-credit, fully-online, NCATE-accredited master’s degree program delivered by the Bagwell College of Education and typically expected to take 18-24 months. The MEd covers collaborative practices, curriculum development, teaching strategies (reading, writing), etc., and awards a state ESOL Endorsement after the 2nd semester. Graduates of the program will be prepared for the needs of their students, who will typically be “culturally and linguistically diverse.”
Sample online courses include: Cultural Issues for ESOL Teachers; Applied Linguistics for ESOL Teachers; Language Development and Literacy for English Learners.
Alternatives: online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in TESOL, designed for bachelor’s degree holders with neither an education background nor teacher certification.
- Cost: $13,788.00 (estimated in-state program cost based on six semesters/ two years)
- #students: 35,420
- #grads: 3,146
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
9. Valley City State University
Valley City, North Dakota
Valley City State University (VCSU, est. 1890) is a public institution and a member of the North Dakota University System. It offers low-priced bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
VCSU has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in Teaching English Language Learners (ELL).
This is a top-value, 34-credit, 100% online, CAEP-accredited master’s degree program which requires practicum/ field experience and an oral presentation of a capstone portfolio, as well as an action research report. The MEd prepares educators for the specific needs of ELL learners, taking into consideration the necessary cultural and linguistic pedagogy.
Sample online courses include: Authentic Assessment Strategies and Evaluation of ELLs; Methods of Teach English and Academic Content to ELLs; Second Language Theory and Practice.
Alternatives: MAT with ELL concentration.
- Cost: $13,673.10 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 1,547
- #grads: 143
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
8. Southeast Missouri State University
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO, est. 1873) is a public institution originally founded as a teacher training school. It offers low-cost associate’s through master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
SEMO has one affordable online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA-TESOL) with three capstone options:
- Thesis with oral defense
- Non-thesis graduate paper and comprehensive exam
- Portfolio and comprehensive exam
This is a high-value, 36-credit, 100% online master’s degree program with a practicum requirement. The MA builds the grad student’s understanding of language acquisition (first and second), linguistics, literacy acquisition (2nd language and beyond). Graduates will be prepared as ESOL teachers for an array of students (pre-school, K-12, college/ university, adult learners) and may work with immigrants and refugees stateside, or citizens in other countries.
Sample online courses include: Sociolinguistics; Theories of ESL/EFL Learning; Methods-and Curriculum Design for ESL/EFL.
- Cost: $13,140.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 11,071
- #grads: 1,030
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
7. Trevecca Nazarene University
Nashville, Tennessee
Trevecca Nazarene University (TNU, est. 1901) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. It offers high-quality associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
TNU has one low-cost online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Education (MEd) degree in English as a Second Language (ESL).
This is an affordable, 30-credit, 100% online, NCATE-accredited master’s degree program with a practicum/ field experience and a total expected timeline of 3-4 semesters (typically 16 months). Graduates of this MEd build on skills and knowledge such as assessment, culture, curriculum design, language acquisition, linguistics and technology. Career roles typically involve guiding their ELL students to build their reading, writing and speaking skills in English. This could be in academic, professional or civic settings.
Sample online courses include: Teaching the Exceptional Learner; Language Acquisition and Learning; Authentic Language Curriculum Design.
Alternatives: ESL Endorsement only option (13 credits) for existing masters degree holders.
- Cost: $13,050.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 3,927
- #grads: 1,616
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
6. University of Southern Maine
Portland, Maine
University of Southern Maine (USM, est. 1878) is a public institution and a member of the University of Maine System. It offers affordable bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
USM has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Science in Education (MSEd) degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) with two tracks: Regular; Initial K-12 ESL Certification..
This is a low-cost, 30-credit, online, CAEP-accredited master’s degree program expected to take at least 10 months (blended option available). It claims a 100% pass rate on the Praxis ESOL Exam for certification. Graduates of this program typically are K-12 teachers or adult educators stateside, or teach English in other countries. Typical careers for graduates of this program include college ESOL instructor, K-12 ELL teacher, overseas teacher/ administrator, and peace corps volunteer, amongst others.
Sample online courses include: Linguistic and Cultural Diversity in the Classroom; Teaching Writing to Multilingual Learners; ESL Testing and Assessment.
Alternatives: Grad certificate in Advanced Study in English as a Second Language.
- Cost: $12,900.00 (listed in-state program cost based on stated tuition)
- #students: 8,140
- #grads: 1,750
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
5. Olivet Nazarene University
Bourbonnais, Illinois
Olivet Nazarene University (ONU, est. 1907) is a private, nonprofit institution affiliated with the Church of the Nazarene. It offers economical bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
ONU has one low cost online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Art in Education (MAE) with English as a Second Language Endorsement.
This is a high-value, 32- to 33-credit, online master’s degree program expected to take 23 months (8-week courses), which combines ESL and C+I (Curriculum and Instruction) courses and requires completion of five 20-hour, course-specific practicums. Topics covered include: assessment; educational best practices; learning styles; technology integration. Graduates of this MAE typically work with ELL students from a diversity of cultures and backgrounds.
Sample online courses include: Methods and Materials for Teaching ESL; Cross-Cultural Studies for Teaching Limited-English Proficient Students; Theoretical Foundations of Teaching ESL and Bilingual Students. A creative project is required for the C+I portion of the degree.
Alternatives: Online MAE with Bilingual Endorsement track; 19-credit ESL/ Bilingual Endorsement only; MAEd in English Language Learners (Indiana Only).
- Cost: $12,335.00 (estimated in-state program cost for 19 ESL credits, 14 C+I credits)
- #students: 4,655
- #grads: 1,424
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
4. Campbellsville University
Campbellsville, Kentucky
Campbellsville University (CU, est. 1906) is a private, nonprofit, independent Christian institution originally affiliated with the Kentucky Baptist Convention. It offers low-priced associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
CU has one cheap online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language:a Master of Arts (MA) degree in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).
This is an affordable, online, non-licensure, NCATE-accredited master’s degree program with choice of non-thesis (36-credit) or thesis (39-credit) tracks, and expected to take 18-24 moths (8-week courses). A practicum is required for both tracks. Topics cover grammar, pronunciation, listening, reading, writing, and general second language acquisition concepts. Graduates will be prepared to be EFL teachers at college level stateside, and at any of three levels of education (elementary, secondary, university) internationally.
Sample online courses include: Introduction to Linguistics; Language and Culture; Second Language Acquisition.
Alternatives: Online graduate certificate in TESL.
- Cost: $11,214.00 (estimated in-state program cost for 36 credits)
- #students: 11,470
- #grads: 7,450
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
3. Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, Arkansas
Arkansas Tech University (ATU, est. 1909) is a public institution. ATU comes in third in our ranking of best, most affordable online master’s degrees in teaching of English as a second/ foreign language. It serves students at two campuses plus online and offers high-value associate’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
ATU has one inexpensive online/ hybrid program in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA-TESOL).
This is a low-cost, 30-credit, online master’s degree program with optional TESL or TESOL practicum. Students not taking the latter must take a MA TESOL exam instead (available three times per academic year). Graduates of this MA typically find post-secondary teaching careers both in the USA and in other countries.
Required endorsement courses are: Second Language Acquisition; Teaching English as a Second Language; ESL Assessment; Teaching People of Other Cultures.
- Cost: $11,197.50 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 12,101
- #grads: 950
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
2. Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, Utah
Western Governors University (WGU, est. 1997) is a private, nonprofit institution. WGU earns second place in our ranking of affordable, accredited, online masters degrees in teaching of English as a second or foreign language. It offers economical bachelor’s and master’s level degrees, plus certificate programs.
WGU has one of the least expensive online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts (MA) degree in English Language Learning (ELL) – PreK-12.
This is a best-value, 30-credit, online, CAEP- and AAQEP-accredited master’s degree program (requires teaching license), which over 60% of grads complete within 18 months. (Note: Cost varies based on number of terms to complete.) A practicum/ field experience is required. Graduates of this MA may be eligible for ELL or ESL certification in their state of residence. Typical career roles include teaching English at a PK-12 level.
Sample online courses include: Language Production, Theory and Acquisition; Theories of Second Language Acquisition and Grammar; Professional Role of the ELL Teacher.
- Cost: $11,055.00 (estimated in-state program cost for three terms)
- #students: 121,437
- #grads: 32,516
- Has housing: No
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
1. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC, est. 1946) is a public institution and a member of the University of North Carolina. UNCC wins first place in this college ranking of affordable, accredited, online master’s degrees in teaching of English language studies for speakers of other languages. It serves students at multiple campuses plus online and offers high-value bachelor’s through doctorate level degrees, plus certificate programs.
UNCC has one of the cheapest online/ hybrid programs in English as a 2nd/ foreign language: a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) – Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL).
This is a low-cost, 39-credit, 100% online, CAEP-accredited master’s degree program delivered by the Cato College of Education, which can be taken full- or part-time, and which incorporates the UNCC TESL grad certificate. The program incorporates UNCC’s online graduate certificate in TESL. After completing these 15 credits, grad students earn the certificate and then complete the remaining program, which includes an internship in Student Teaching. This approach allows students who have already earned the certificate to complete a master’s and eventually earn an M license.
Career outcomes for grads include teaching in educational settings such as K-12 schools (public, private), language training institutes, multinational companies, immigrant- or refugee-centric nonprofits, government consulting positions, etc. Current K-12 teachers who are looking to gain an M license and teach TESOL should consider UNCC’s MEd in Curriculum and Instruction – TESL, covered elsewhere in our Curriculum and Instruction ranking article.
Sample online courses include: Planning for K-12 Instruction; Methods in Teaching English as a Second Language; Authentic Assessment.
Alternatives: online MEd in Curriculum and Instruction – TESL (33 credits); Online Grad Certificate in TESL.
- Cost: $9,828.00 (estimated in-state program cost)
- #students: 29,710
- #grads: 5,323
- Has housing: Yes
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
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