M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 70

1. Academic Qualifications: A bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is required for admission to a postgraduate program at CSUN. Applicants must have completed their undergraduate education with strong academic performance.

2. Minimum GPA: CSUN typically looks for a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or its equivalent. 

3. English Language Proficiency: 

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 is required, with no individual band score below 6.5.
• TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 85 is required.
• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 64 is required.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 105 is required.

California State University, Northridge (CSUN), is committed to supporting international students in their pursuit of higher education. The university offers a range of scholarships and financial aid options to help alleviate the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. International Achievement Scholarship: CSUN's International Achievement Scholarship is designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievement. Eligibility is based on academic excellence, and recipients can receive up to $5,000 per academic year.

2. The Dream US Scholarship: This scholarship is specifically aimed at undocumented students, including those with DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) status. It provides financial support to help cover tuition and other educational expenses.

3. Intensive English Program (IEP) Scholarships: CSUN offers scholarships to international students who enroll in the Intensive English Program (IEP). These scholarships are awarded based on merit and help students improve their English language skills.

4. Privately Funded Scholarships: CSUN administers several privately funded scholarships that are available to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria related to academic major, community involvement, or other factors.

5. Study Abroad Scholarships: CSUN encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. The university offers scholarships to help offset the costs associated with studying abroad, including program fees and travel expenses.

6. External Scholarships: CSUN also assists international students in identifying external scholarship opportunities. These scholarships may be offered by government agencies, foundations, and international organizations.

7. Athletics Scholarships: CSUN has a competitive NCAA Division I athletics program. Talented international student-athletes may be eligible for athletics scholarships based on their sports achievements.

8. Cultural Scholarships: Some cultural organizations and clubs on campus may offer scholarships to international students who are actively engaged in promoting and celebrating their cultures.

9. Graduate Assistantships: For international graduate students, CSUN provides opportunities for graduate assistantships that offer a stipend and may include tuition remission. These positions allow students to gain valuable experience while pursuing their degrees.

10. Research Assistantships: - International graduate students can also explore research assistantship positions that provide financial support while contributing to research projects in their field of study.

Application Process: To be considered for scholarships at CSUN, international students typically need to complete the scholarship application provided by the university. Each scholarship may have specific eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements.

The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) program at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) is a prestigious and specialized graduate program that prepares educators to address the unique linguistic and cultural needs of English language learners. Graduates of this program are equipped with the expertise and skills needed to pursue diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the field of TESL and English language education.

1. English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher: Many graduates become ESL teachers, working in K-12 schools, language institutes, community colleges, or adult education programs. They provide English language instruction to students of various proficiency levels and backgrounds.

2. English Language Program Coordinator: Graduates may take on roles as program coordinators or administrators, overseeing English language programs and ensuring their effective implementation. They manage curriculum development, teacher training, and program evaluation.

3. TESL Instructor: Some graduates choose to work as TESL instructors in universities or language schools. They may teach future ESL teachers, helping them develop the pedagogical skills necessary for effective language instruction.

4. Educational Consultant: Graduates can work as educational consultants, providing expertise to schools, organizations, and language programs on best practices in TESL, curriculum development, and assessment.

5. Content Developer: Content developers create educational materials, textbooks, and online resources for English language learners. They ensure that materials are culturally sensitive and engaging.

6. Adult Education Instructor: Graduates can teach English to adults in adult education programs, community centers, or immigrant and refugee support organizations, helping adult learners improve their language skills.

7. International Education: Some graduates work in international education, assisting international students with language acquisition and cultural adjustment as English language specialists.

8. Language Assessment Specialist: Language assessment specialists design and administer language proficiency tests and assessments, ensuring their validity and reliability.

9. Online English Tutoring: With the growth of online education, graduates may choose to work as online English tutors, providing individualized instruction to students worldwide.

10. Corporate Language Trainer: Some graduates find opportunities in the corporate world, providing language training to employees of multinational companies to enhance their communication skills.

11. Nonprofit Organizations: Graduates may work for nonprofit organizations that focus on immigrant and refugee services, providing language instruction and support to newcomers.

12. Private Language Schools: Private language schools often hire TESL graduates to teach English to international students who are seeking to improve their language skills for academic or professional purposes.

13. Research and Curriculum Development: Graduates with a research interest can pursue careers in research and curriculum development, contributing to the advancement of TESL pedagogy and materials.

14. Doctoral Studies: The M.A. program can serve as a foundation for those interested in pursuing doctoral studies in TESL, applied linguistics, or related fields, opening doors to academic and research careers.