Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), MA

Overview

The Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (M.A. in TESOL) prepares professional teachers of English as a foreign language with the knowledge and skills necessary to teach effectively in a variety of settings. This degree specializes in teaching both children and adults and prepares graduates for leadership roles in the field of teaching English as a Second Language. In addition, students take six hours of intercultural studies to prepare for living and teaching in another country and/or culture.

Objectives

The M.A. in TESOL equips students to:

• Understand the major concepts of linguistics and English syntax.
• Apply knowledge of linguistics and Second Language Acquisition (SLA) theory to practical classroom instruction.
• Teach listening, speaking, reading, and writing at all levels of proficiency.
• Develop appropriate curriculum for all ages and levels of English Language Learners (ELLs).
• Demonstrate the integrity and quality of Christian educators.
• Assess all areas of language skills for the purpose of proficiency, placement, and achievement testing.
• Understand the dynamic cultural forces which affect teaching and ministry.

Admission Requirements

• Students must fulfill the general admission requirements of the university (see the Admissions section for details).
• Students must have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.5 or scores above the 50th percentile on the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE).
• M.A. in TESOL international students whose first language is not English must score 100 on the internet-based test, 250 on the computer-based examination, or 600 on the paper-based examination of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL).

Time Limitation

The time limit for completion of all requirements is ten years, measured from the date a student begins coursework in the M.A. in TESOL program.

Transfer Policy

Course credits earned at another institution may be counted toward the M.A. in TESOL degree, but a minimum of one-third of the course credits required for the degree must be taken at Columbia International University. Transfer credit must be approved by the student’s advisor and dean.

Completion Requirements

• A minimum GPA of 2.5.
• Read the entire Bible following admission, including selections assigned in Bible courses. This requirement must be completed six weeks prior to graduation.

This degree is offered in two different formats: Program 1 for college graduates with no previous studies in Bible or theology, and Program 2 for college graduates who have at least 15 semester hours of Bible, theology, or Church history. If a student does not have at least 15 semester hours of Bible, Theology, or Church history but can document equivalent competency in these areas (i.e. through previous life experience and study), then admission with Program 2 status will be considered on a case by case basis.

Students who complete the M.A. in TESOL degree receive a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) certificate upon graduation.

The M.A. in TESOL is available fully online. Please contact Admissions for further information.