MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Are you interested in a career in English Language Teaching? Studying an MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at the University of Hertfordshire will give you an in-depth knowledge of this global language and the skills to teach it, opening up opportunities for you to become part of the growing international academic and professional English Language Teaching community.

Our MA TESOL is a one-year full-time, or two-year part-time, course for graduates in English or related subjects such as Education or Languages, with little or no teaching experience, who want a practical preparation in English Language Teaching at postgraduate level.

A key feature of this MA TESOL is its practical teaching element. Supported throughout by our experienced staff, you will first observe and then participate in practice teaching sessions right from the start of the two taught semesters, teaching international students who are studying at the University of Hertfordshire.

Teaching these volunteer students in small groups, you will build your skills in lesson planning, preparing case studies and delivering and receiving detailed peer and teacher feedback.

Alongside your guided classroom teaching you will follow a comprehensive range of modules that link language teaching theory and practice, enabling you to develop academic research skills while gaining a strong foundation in English Language Teaching.

Our small group teaching ensures you’re fully supported by your tutors, with opportunities to reflect on your teaching practice from theoretical and research-based perspectives, appropriate for Masters-level study.

The module Linguistic Analysis for Language Teaching will provide an in-depth analysis of the phonology, grammar and pragmatics of spoken and written English to enhance your knowledge of the language. Teaching English as an International Language will enable you to explore how English has been used around the world, how it continues to develop to meet localised needs, and the implications of this for English Language Teaching.

Course & Syllabus Design in English Language Teaching will equip students interested in setting up language schools or tutoring businesses with key skills. 

Research Methods and Dissertation Skills will help prepare you for your dissertation in the final semester.  The dissertation will allow you to explore your choice of subject – located within the field of TESOL – in depth, bringing theory and practice together.

The equivalent of a good (i.e. minimum 55% classification grade) 2:2 honours degree in a field related to language, english or education. Applicants with degrees in other subjects may be considered, but candidates may be required to complete a selection activity which may include:  

Submission of a short written discussion of a topic related to english language

You'll also need to provide a work or academic reference, as well as a personal statement.

A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 (6.5 in writing, no sub-section below 6.0) or equivalent for those whose first language is not English. 

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.5 in Writing and 6.0 in all other bands.

As a graduate of this MA TESOL you will be qualified for jobs teaching English at a range of levels in most countries of the world. You will be able to take on positions of responsibility at course design and course management levels.

This MA opens doors to senior level posts in language schools, including Director of Studies positions, as well as university teaching (i.e. EAP/ESP) for UK-based students. The wide range of careers available also include materials writing, TESOL examining or teaching English to refugees (ESOL).

Recent Herts MA TESOL graduates have set up online tutoring businesses, while other graduates are working for the Refugee Council in Hertfordshire and in local Further Education colleges.