MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Reading
INTAKE: Feb & Sept
Program Overview
The MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at the University of Reading is an advanced, comprehensive program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the principles, theories, and methodologies used in the teaching of English as a second language. It prepares graduates to work as language educators in various educational contexts, ranging from schools and universities to private language schools and international organizations. With a focus on both theory and practice, the program allows students to develop strong pedagogical skills, enhance their language teaching expertise, and understand the complexities of language acquisition. The MA TESOL program at Reading is ideal for individuals looking to further their careers in TESOL, whether they are already teaching or are aspiring to become language educators in diverse global settings.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA TESOL program at the University of Reading is designed to provide a balanced mix of theoretical knowledge, practical teaching skills, and research insights. The core modules focus on key areas such as language acquisition, second language teaching methods, and classroom management techniques. Students will delve into topics including linguistics, phonetics, language assessment, and sociolinguistics, enabling them to understand the factors that influence language learning and teaching. The program also includes modules in English language teaching for specific purposes, such as business or academic English. Elective modules offer students the opportunity to specialize in areas that align with their career interests, such as language testing, curriculum design, or intercultural communication. Additionally, the program emphasizes the integration of technology in language teaching, preparing students to use digital tools and resources effectively in the classroom. The curriculum also includes a dissertation or a research project, allowing students to investigate a topic of interest in-depth and contribute to the academic field of TESOL.
Research Focus: The University of Reading places a strong emphasis on research within the MA TESOL program, helping students explore the latest developments in language teaching and second language acquisition. Research within the program covers a variety of areas, such as language learning processes, assessment methodologies, the impact of cultural contexts on language learning, and the role of technology in language teaching. Students are encouraged to engage with current academic debates, critically analyze existing research, and apply evidence-based practices to their own teaching. The university is home to a number of research centers and institutes, including those focusing on applied linguistics and TESOL, which provide students with access to cutting-edge research and expert guidance. Graduates of the MA TESOL program are well-equipped to undertake independent research or further studies, contributing to the advancement of the TESOL field.
Industry Engagement: The University of Reading’s MA TESOL program provides students with valuable opportunities for industry engagement, ensuring they gain hands-on experience and build strong professional networks. Students have the opportunity to observe and participate in language teaching through internships, placements, and teaching practice, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in real classroom settings. The university works closely with educational institutions, private language schools, and other relevant organizations to facilitate these industry connections. Additionally, students benefit from guest lectures, workshops, and seminars with leading experts in the TESOL field, offering them insights into the latest trends and challenges in language teaching. This industry engagement not only enhances students’ employability but also ensures that the program remains relevant to the evolving needs of the TESOL profession.
Global Perspective: The MA TESOL program at the University of Reading is designed to provide students with a global perspective on language teaching, equipping them with the skills needed to teach English in diverse international settings. The program recognizes the importance of understanding cultural differences, language policies, and educational practices across the globe. Students will examine how different regions approach language teaching, the challenges of teaching English as a global language, and the role of English in non-English-speaking countries. The diverse student body at the University of Reading adds an international dimension to the learning experience, with peers from various linguistic and cultural backgrounds contributing unique insights into the field. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to teach English in various international contexts, including in countries where English is taught as a second language, as well as in English-speaking countries with diverse immigrant populations.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25850
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Available for students from Commonwealth nations pursuing a master's or PhD. Covers tuition fees, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
Great Scholarships: A collaboration between the British Council and UK universities. Provides funding of up to £10,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Alumni Discount for Postgraduate Students: If you are a University of Reading graduate, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount for further studies.
The MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program at the University of Reading provides students with comprehensive knowledge and practical experience, preparing them for diverse careers in the field of English language teaching. Graduates are equipped with essential skills in language instruction, assessment, and curriculum development, making them highly employable in educational institutions, private language schools, and global organizations. With an emphasis on research, industry engagement, and global teaching perspectives, the program opens up a wide range of career opportunities across various sectors.
ESL (English as a Second Language) Teacher: The most common career path for MA TESOL graduates is becoming an ESL teacher. Graduates can teach English to non-native speakers in schools, universities, private language schools, and online platforms. As an ESL teacher, they will develop lesson plans, deliver classes, assess students' progress, and create a supportive learning environment for language acquisition. Graduates are equipped to teach students of all ages, from young learners to adults, and in various settings, including intensive language programs and community language education.
English for Specific Purposes (ESP) Instructor: Graduates of the MA TESOL program can specialize in teaching English for specific purposes, such as business English, academic English, or English for medical professionals. ESP instructors work with learners who require English skills tailored to their professional or academic needs. For example, business English instructors teach employees communication skills required in corporate environments, while academic English instructors support students preparing for university-level study in English-speaking institutions. This specialization provides an excellent opportunity for those with expertise in a particular field to combine their knowledge of TESOL with their industry experience.
Curriculum Designer/Developer: MA TESOL graduates can pursue careers in curriculum development, where they design language teaching materials, textbooks, and educational programs. Curriculum designers ensure that the content aligns with educational standards and meets the needs of diverse student populations. They also develop assessments and teaching strategies to enhance the learning process. Graduates can work for educational publishers, language schools, or governmental education departments to create effective and engaging language curricula.
Language Program Coordinator/Manager: For those interested in management roles, the position of language program coordinator or manager is an excellent option. In this role, graduates oversee language teaching programs, manage a team of teachers, and ensure the effective delivery of English language courses. Responsibilities include budgeting, scheduling, developing training programs for teachers, and liaising with other departments or external organizations. Language program coordinators are employed in educational institutions, private language schools, and international organizations.
Educational Consultant: Graduates of the MA TESOL program can work as educational consultants, advising schools, universities, and private organizations on best practices in language teaching and learning. Educational consultants assess existing teaching practices, recommend improvements, and help institutions implement new teaching strategies, curricula, and assessments. They may also work with educational technology companies to develop innovative digital tools for language learning.
Language Assessor/Examiner: Language assessors are responsible for evaluating learners' English language proficiency. Graduates can become certified language examiners for English language proficiency tests such as IELTS (International English Language Testing System), TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language), or Cambridge English exams. These roles require in-depth knowledge of language assessment frameworks and test design, as well as the ability to provide constructive feedback on language proficiency. Language assessors typically work with language testing centers, educational institutions, or as freelance professionals.
Teacher Trainer: Teacher training is an exciting career option for MA TESOL graduates who wish to support and guide other language teachers. Teacher trainers develop and deliver professional development programs for ESL teachers, providing training on language teaching methods, classroom management, and assessment strategies. Graduates may work for universities, government education departments, or professional organizations that offer TESOL certification programs.
Online Language Tutor/Teacher: As online language learning continues to grow, MA TESOL graduates can take advantage of the growing demand for online ESL teachers. By teaching English remotely, graduates can work with students from around the world, offering flexible schedules and the ability to teach from any location. Online language tutors typically work with individual students or small groups, using digital platforms to deliver lessons, assign tasks, and provide feedback. This career path is ideal for graduates looking for work-life flexibility and those passionate about reaching a global audience.
International Development Worker (Education Focus): For graduates interested in international development, a career in education-focused NGOs or government agencies can be highly rewarding. International development workers in education may work on projects that promote language learning and literacy in underserved communities around the world. These professionals develop and implement English language programs, train local teachers, and help improve access to quality education. Graduates with a passion for global development can find opportunities with organizations like the UN, USAID, or international NGOs.
Academic Researcher/PhD Candidate: For graduates interested in furthering their academic careers, the MA TESOL program provides a solid foundation for pursuing a PhD in TESOL, applied linguistics, or education. Academic researchers in TESOL conduct studies on language acquisition, teaching methods, assessment tools, and other related topics. PhD candidates often go on to become university lecturers, publishing their research in academic journals, and contributing to the advancement of the field.
