M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Linguistics (dual major)

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum academic requirement is a 60% or higher score in the undergraduate program.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System):

  • A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required for postgraduate programs.
  • No individual band score should be less than 6.
     

• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language Internet-Based Test):

  • A minimum overall score of 79 is expected.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

• PTE (Pearson Test of English):

  • An overall score of 53 or higher is required.
     

• DET (Duolingo English Test):

  • A minimum score of 110 is the benchmark.

3. NACES credential evaluation required.

Ball State University is committed to promoting diversity and providing financial support to international students. 

1. Ball State's International Student Scholarships: Ball State University offers a variety of merit-based scholarships exclusively for international students. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and leadership qualities.

2. University-Wide Scholarships: International students are eligible to apply for university-wide scholarships that are open to all students, regardless of their nationality. These scholarships often have specific criteria and requirements.

3. Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at Ball State University offer scholarships to international students pursuing degrees within those departments. These scholarships may be based on academic performance, major, or specific achievements.

4. Study Abroad Scholarships: Ball State encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university offers scholarships to help cover the costs associated with studying abroad, promoting global experiences and cultural exchange.

5. Research and Assistantships: Some international graduate students may have the opportunity to work as research assistants or teaching assistants, which often come with a stipend and tuition remission. These roles offer valuable professional development.

6. Privately Funded Scholarships: There are external scholarship opportunities for international students provided by private organizations, foundations, and government agencies. Ball State's scholarship office assists students in identifying and applying for these external scholarships.

7. Cultural Scholarships: Ball State University may offer scholarships to students who are actively involved in promoting their own cultures and engaging in cultural exchange on campus.

8. Full-Ride Scholarships: In some cases, highly qualified international students may be eligible for full-ride scholarships that cover tuition, fees, and living expenses.

9. Community Scholarships: Local community organizations and partners sometimes provide scholarships to international students who are engaged in community service and demonstrate a commitment to the local area.

10. International Student Services Support: - Ball State's International Student Services office assists students in finding scholarship opportunities, completing applications, and meeting deadlines. They provide valuable guidance throughout the process.

11. Renewability and Eligibility: - Scholarship renewability and eligibility criteria may vary for each scholarship, and it is essential for international students to maintain academic excellence and meet specific requirements.

12. Application Deadlines: - International students should pay close attention to scholarship application deadlines to ensure they have the best chance of receiving financial aid.

Ball State University's M.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) and Linguistics (Dual Major) is a pathway to a dynamic and fulfilling career in language education and linguistics.

1. ESL/EFL Instructor: Graduates are well-equipped to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) or English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in a variety of settings, including language institutes, community colleges, and international schools.

2. Curriculum Developer: Leveraging expertise in linguistics and TESOL, individuals may contribute to the design and development of language education curricula, ensuring alignment with current pedagogical practices and linguistic principles.

3. Language Program Administrator: Graduates can take on leadership roles in language programs, overseeing operations, curriculum implementation, and teacher training. This includes positions in language schools, academic institutions, and community organizations.

4. Cross-Cultural Communication Specialist: With a dual focus on TESOL and linguistics, professionals are well-positioned to work as cross-cultural communication specialists, facilitating effective communication between individuals from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

5. Educational Consultant: Graduates may choose to work as educational consultants, providing insights and recommendations to institutions and organizations seeking to enhance their language education programs and linguistic awareness.

6. Linguistic Researcher: Those inclined towards research can pursue roles as linguistic researchers, contributing to the advancement of linguistic knowledge and understanding. This may involve academic research, language documentation, or corpus analysis.

7. Intercultural Communication Trainer: As experts in language and communication, graduates can offer training in intercultural communication, helping individuals navigate language differences in diverse global environments.

8. Corporate Language Trainer: Many multinational corporations value employees with strong language skills. Graduates may find opportunities as corporate language trainers, conducting language training programs for employees working in global business settings.

9. TESOL Program Coordinator: Graduates can take on coordination roles within TESOL programs, overseeing program logistics, student progress, and teacher support. This is common in academic institutions and language education centers.

10. Language Assessment Specialist: Professionals in this role design, implement, and evaluate language assessments. This is crucial in educational institutions, language testing organizations, and government agencies.