The Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) offers prospective and experienced teachers of English as a second or foreign language a 33-unit master’s degree program comprising courses in language acquisition theory, English grammar and pronunciation, intercultural communication, sociolinguistics, language teaching methods, observation and practice in classroom teaching, language assessment, and program design.
The TESOL programs at Azusa Pacific University prepare present and future educators, international and domestic, with the competencies and perspectives needed to teach English in a manner marked by professional excellence, intercultural sensitivity, integrity, and compassion. To this end, the department offers an 18-unit undergraduate TESOL minor, an 18-unit graduate certificate in TESOL, a 6-unit graduate certificate in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL), and a 33-unit master’s degree in TESOL—all taught by experienced Christian faculty who are motivated to serve God and their students, and who engage students in practical training grounded in theory and research.
Required for the TEFL certificate.
TESL 589 is required if the thesis option is chosen; if the portfolio option is chosen, TESL 589 can be taken as an elective.
TESL 590 may be repeated for credit.
To complete the program, students choose either to create a professional portfolio or write a thesis. Students who choose the portfolio must enroll in TESL 580 and develop a portfolio that demonstrates competence in each of the TESOL program learning outcomes. Students who elect to write a thesis must enroll in TESL 589 or a comparable course in research methods. Most students who elect to write a thesis will also enroll in TESL 590 as their elective. After completing the thesis, students must provide an oral defense.
Students may begin TESOL studies in summer, fall, or spring.
The program is offered in an 8-week session format: Fall 1, Fall 2, Spring 1, Spring 2, Summer 1, and Summer 2. A Summer 2 elective is offered online. Full-time students typically enroll in two courses per 8-week session and can complete the entire program of 11 courses (33 units) in approximately six sessions (as little as 16 months). Part-time students taking one course each term can complete the program in about three years. Students may move between full-time and part-time study as needed. The time limit for completing all degree requirements, including coursework and corequisites, is eight years.
Students in the TESOL master’s degree programs may take up to four courses in a different format—on campus or online. The program director’s approval is required prior to enrollment.
University graduate admission and program-specific requirements must be met before an application is complete (see Admission to the University). Program-specific application requirements are available online.
International students should contact Graduate and Professional Admissions for application procedures.
Students who successfully complete this program shall be able to:
