M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 60

Academic Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is required for admission to postgraduate programs at UCO.
• The minimum academic requirement is a GPA (Grade Point Average) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, which is equivalent to 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency Requirements:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall score of 6.5 with no band less than 6.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 79.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 53.

The University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) offers a range of scholarships to support international students in pursuing their higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, encourage diversity, and provide financial assistance. 

1. Global Broncho Scholarship: The Global Broncho Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship for undergraduate international students. The scholarship amount varies and is awarded based on academic achievement.

2. International Student Academic Scholarship: This scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate international students. It recognizes outstanding academic performance and provides financial support.

3. Ambassador's Scholarship: The Ambassador's Scholarship is awarded to outstanding undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to promoting diversity and cultural understanding.

4. Honors College Scholarship: The Honors College at UCO offers scholarships to academically talented international students who participate in the Honors College program.

5. Athletic Scholarships: International students with exceptional athletic abilities may be eligible for athletic scholarships if they participate in UCO's NCAA Division II sports programs.

6. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at UCO offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. These scholarships are often based on academic performance, major, or other criteria.

7. UCO Foundation Scholarships: The UCO Foundation administers a wide range of scholarships funded by donors and organizations. These scholarships cover various academic disciplines and criteria.

8. Cultural Diversity Scholarship: UCO recognizes the value of cultural diversity and may offer scholarships to international students who contribute to a more diverse and inclusive campus community.

9. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate international students may have the opportunity to work as graduate assistants, which often include a stipend and/or tuition waivers.

10. Study Abroad Scholarships: - UCO encourages international students to explore study abroad opportunities. Scholarships may be available to support their international educational experiences.

11. Specific Country Scholarships: - UCO may have scholarship programs that are specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions.

12. Research and Teaching Assistantships: - Some academic departments may offer research and teaching assistantships to graduate students, providing valuable experience and financial support.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program at the University of Central Oklahoma (UCO) prepares educators to meet the diverse linguistic and cultural needs of English language learners (ELLs). 

1. ESL Teacher: Graduates can pursue roles as ESL teachers in K-12 schools, adult education programs, or language institutes. They play a crucial role in helping ELLs develop English language proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.

2. University-level ESL Instructor: Some graduates may choose to teach English for Academic Purposes (EAP) or ESL courses at the university level. This role often involves working with international students preparing for academic studies in English-speaking institutions.

3. ESL Program Coordinator: Graduates may take on leadership roles as ESL program coordinators, responsible for designing and implementing language programs, assessing student needs, and collaborating with other educators and administrators.

4. Curriculum Developer: With a strong understanding of language acquisition principles, graduates may contribute to the development of ESL curriculum materials, textbooks, and online resources.

5. Language Assessment Specialist: Graduates can work in roles focused on language assessment, designing and evaluating tests that measure English language proficiency. This is particularly relevant in settings where standardized testing is used to assess language skills.

6. Educational Consultant: Some individuals choose to become educational consultants, advising schools, districts, or educational organizations on best practices for language instruction, language policies, and strategies for supporting ELLs.

7. Intercultural Communication Specialist: Given the emphasis on cultural understanding in TESL programs, graduates may find opportunities as intercultural communication specialists, facilitating communication and understanding between individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.

8. ESL Program Administrator: Graduates with leadership skills may take on administrative roles within ESL programs, overseeing the day-to-day operations, managing resources, and ensuring compliance with relevant educational standards.

9. Private Language School Instructor: Many language schools, both domestically and internationally, seek qualified TESL professionals. Graduates may choose to work in these settings, providing language instruction to a broad range of learners.

10. Online ESL Instructor: With the growing demand for online education, graduates may explore opportunities as online ESL instructors, delivering instruction to students worldwide through virtual platforms.