M.A. in English
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in English at UNCW is a flexible and student-centered program...
M.Ed. in Teaching English as a Second Language (K-Grade 12)
Wilmington, North Carolina
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The M.Ed. in TESL (K-12) at UNCW is an intensive, flexible program, often offered in a distance education format, including fully online options, to accommodate working professionals. The program aims to equip educators with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and cultural competencies necessary to effectively teach English to non-native speakers in diverse K-12 classroom settings. Successful completion of the 33-credit hour program prepares candidates to take the Praxis II in English as a Second Language and obtain North Carolina K-12 certification in ESOL (English to Speakers of Other Languages). The program emphasizes small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty, fostering a strong learning community.
Curriculum: The curriculum provides a comprehensive understanding of second language acquisition, linguistics, and effective pedagogical strategies for English Language Learners. Core courses typically include "ESL Issues: Culture, Policy & Advocacy," "Second Language Acquisition: Research & Theory," "Methods for Second Language Learners," "English as a Second Language Assessment," and "Linguistics for Teachers." The program also incorporates an action research project or comprehensive portfolio as a culminating experience, allowing students to apply their learning to real-world educational contexts. The curriculum also integrates field experiences in diverse K-12 schools, culminating in a full-time student teaching internship under the guidance of mentor teachers and faculty supervisors, providing invaluable hands-on experience.
Research Focus: UNCW's "High Research Activity" classification is reflected in the M.Ed. in TESL program's emphasis on research-informed practice. The program trains educators to be reflective practitioners who can critically analyze and synthesize research in second language acquisition and teaching. Faculty members are actively engaged in research related to teaching English language learners, cultural responsiveness in education, linguistic accommodations, and issues affecting immigrant families in schools. Students are encouraged to engage with existing research and to develop their own inquiry skills, often culminating in research projects that address specific challenges or opportunities within ESL education. This focus ensures that graduates are prepared to implement evidence-based instructional strategies.
Industry Engagement: The Watson College of Education maintains extensive partnerships with over 2,000 teachers and 12 school districts across Southeastern North Carolina. This robust network facilitates significant industry engagement for M.Ed. in TESL students. The program includes required field experiences in K-12 schools, providing direct interaction with English Language Learners and immersion in real classroom environments. The full-time student teaching internship offers practical, supervised experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge under the guidance of experienced mentor teachers. These direct connections with schools ensure that the curriculum remains relevant to current educational needs and that graduates are well-prepared for immediate employment in the field.
Global Perspective: The M.Ed. in TESL at UNCW inherently embraces a strong global perspective, as it focuses on preparing educators to work with students from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Courses delve into the cultural, social, and policy issues impacting English language learners, often drawing on global contexts and trends in migration and language education. The program's curriculum emphasizes cultural sensitivity, advocacy for ELLs, and understanding the linguistic needs of students from various nationalities. Furthermore, the program prepares graduates not only for teaching in the U.S. but also offers a foundation for those interested in teaching English as a foreign language (EFL) abroad in positions that do not require U.S. teacher certification, thus promoting a truly global outlook on language education.
Location
Wilmington, North Carolina
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 24198
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
The University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) offers a variety of scholarship opportunities designed to support and attract talented international students. These scholarships aim to make education more affordable while recognizing academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement.
Merit-Based Scholarships: UNCW provides merit scholarships for international students based on academic achievements, standardized test scores, and other criteria. These awards can significantly reduce tuition costs and are often renewable for multiple years based on maintaining good academic standing.
International Student Scholarships: Specific scholarships are available exclusively for international students, such as the International Student Scholarship which rewards outstanding academic performance and leadership qualities. Eligibility and award amounts vary each year, encouraging prospective students to apply early.
Departmental Scholarships: Many academic departments at UNCW offer scholarships targeted to students within their programs, including international students. These scholarships recognize excellence in fields such as business, marine science, and the arts, and often require separate applications or nominations.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: UNCW encourages international students to explore additional funding options through external organizations, governments, and private foundations. The university’s financial aid office provides guidance on locating and applying for these scholarships.
A Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Teaching English as a Second Language (K-Grade 12) from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) prepares highly specialized and culturally sensitive educators to serve the growing population of English Language Learners (ELLs). This advanced degree not only leads to state licensure but also equips graduates with sophisticated linguistic knowledge, pedagogical strategies, and a deep understanding of the diverse needs of non-native English speakers. The comprehensive training, including significant field experience, makes UNCW graduates highly sought after in a variety of educational and related professional settings.
K-12 ESL/ESOL Teacher: The most direct career path, where graduates teach English to ELLs in public or private elementary, middle, or high schools. They are responsible for developing language proficiency across all skill areas (reading, writing, speaking, listening) and integrating content area instruction.
ESL/ESOL Program Coordinator/Lead Teacher: With advanced knowledge and leadership skills, graduates can oversee ESL programs within a school or district, managing curriculum, assessing student progress, supporting other ESL teachers, and advocating for ELL needs.
Curriculum Developer (ESL/Language Arts): Graduates can work for school districts, educational publishers, or language learning companies to design and develop specialized English language learning curricula and instructional materials for K-12 students.
Instructional Coach/Professional Development Trainer: Drawing on their expertise in second language acquisition and teaching methodologies, graduates can train and mentor other teachers on best practices for supporting ELLs in mainstream classrooms.
Assessment Specialist (ESL): These professionals focus on designing, administering, and interpreting assessments for English Language Learners, ensuring accurate measurement of language proficiency and academic progress.
Bilingual Education Teacher: For graduates who are also proficient in another language, this role involves teaching academic subjects to students in both English and their native language, often in dual-language immersion programs.
Adult ESL Instructor: While the K-12 focus is primary, the skills are transferable to adult education settings, teaching English to immigrants, refugees, or international students in community colleges, language institutes, or non-profit organizations.
International School Teacher (English Language/Subject-Specific): The M.Ed. in TESL can be a strong qualification for teaching English or even content subjects in English in international schools around the world, particularly in countries where English is not the native language.
Online ESL Instructor: The demand for online English language instruction is high. Graduates can work for online language learning platforms or as independent tutors, providing virtual instruction to students of all ages globally.
Educational Consultant (Focus on ELLs): Graduates can work as consultants for school districts, educational organizations, or even private families, advising on effective strategies, resources, and policies for supporting English Language Learners.
