2022 Best Online Master's in ESL Programs
This list is ranked by the real-world salary outcomes of graduates from online master's programs in ESL, which stands for English as a Second Language. The curricula across these programs are designed for online learners who want to develop their career teaching fundamental English skills, including reading, writing, and speaking. In an ESL program at the master's level, students are expected to have a teaching license already. While a bachelor's degree is often the minimum requirement for ESL teachers, some higher education institutions may require an ESL master's degree.
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Overview Requirement Courses Careers| Rank | School | Salary Score | Median Starting Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| St. John's University | $64,355 | ||
| Mercy College | 95 | $61,946 | |
| Wilkes University | 91 | $55,877 | |
| Concordia University - Nebraska | 90 | $53,812 | |
| Edgewood College | 89 | $52,250 | |
| Capella University | 86 | $49,521 |
2022 Online Colleges Offering ESL Degrees - Ranking Details
#1 St. John's University Learn more about how we make money. ">
- Salary Score: 86
- Median Starting Salary: $64,355
- Locations: Queens (NY)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Founded by the Catholic church, St. John's University is a medium-sized, private non-profit with the distinction of being an Asian American-serving institution. St. John's offers a 33-credit hour Master of Science in TESOL, which includes a one-semester teaching practicum. The program helps prepare graduates to teach English as a New Language (ENL) in New York State. Courses focus on creative curriculum design, best practices in teaching culturally diverse learners, and social justice.
St. John students use Blackboard to access course materials, complete assignments/exams, and interact with both classmates and instructors. Graduate students have full access to the school's support services, such as library collections, mentors, and academic resources.
#2 Mercy College
- Salary Score: 81
- Median Starting Salary: $61,946
- Locations: Dobbs Ferry (NY)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
A medium-sized, private non-profit, Mercy College has earned the distinction of being a Hispanic-serving institution. Mercy offers two tracks for its Master of Science in TESOL. The 33-credit Track I is designed for students seeking their first teaching certificate in New York State and requires a 15-week student teaching experience. The 36-credit Track II is meant for state-certified teachers and requires 20 days of fieldwork. Both tracks include courses on cultural perspectives, linguistics, and the writing process.
At Mercy, instructors and students use the Blackboard platform to access course materials. Graduate students have access to student support services, such as academic advising, tutoring, and mental health counseling.
#3 Wilkes University
- Salary Score: 68
- Median Starting Salary: $55,877
- Locations: Wilkes-Barre (PA)
- Accreditation: MSCHE
Wilkes University is a medium-sized, private, non-profit that offers a Master of Science in Education with a major in TESOL. The school's seven-week course format enables students to complete the 30-credit hour program in five semesters. The curriculum focuses on best practices in lesson planning and teaching, linguistics, program development, and the use of technology in the classroom. Several courses within the program require 15-30 hours of fieldwork experience.
At Wilkes, primarily asynchronous courses are delivered through the Desire 2 Learn platform. Graduate students have access to library services, academic advising, and other student resources.
#4 Concordia University - Nebraska
- Salary Score: 62
- Median Starting Salary: $53,812
- Locations: Seward (NE)
- Accreditation: HLC
Concordia University - Nebraska is a small, private non-profit affiliated with the Lutheran church. Students interested in ESL teaching have several options for earning an advanced degree: a Master of Education in Literacy with an emphasis in TESOL, a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in ESL, or a Master of Education in Teaching ESL. All three programs require 30 credit hours, including fieldwork experience, and most students complete their programs in approximately two years.
At Concordia, students use Blackboard to access course materials, complete assignments and exams, and interact with peers and instructors. Student resources include library access, IT support, academic advising, and career services.
#5 Edgewood College
- Salary Score: 58
- Median Starting Salary: $52,250
- Locations: Madison (WI)
- Accreditation: HLC
Edgewood College is a small, private non-profit offering an online Master of Arts in Education - English as a Second Language. With 33 total credit hours (15 core courses and 18 licensing courses), this program offers concentrations in English as a Second Language, Licensing, and Professional Educator as a Second Language. The latter is meant for educators who are looking to further their skills. A few of the program’s courses include ESL/Bilingual Program Development and Advocacy, ESL Curriculum Design & Assessment, Second Language Acquisition Content, and Supervised Field Teaching: ESL.
The program is available during each semester and includes three synchronous sessions with online learning material implemented in-between. For busy professionals, there are eight-week accelerated courses that can accommodate work schedules.
#6 Capella University
- Salary Score: 50
- Median Starting Salary: $49,521
- Locations: Minneapolis (MN)
- Accreditation: HLC
Capella University is a medium-sized, private, for-profit institution offering an online Master of Science in Education: English Language Learning and Teaching. This program prepares licensed P-12 teachers to create, facilitate, and evaluate English Language Learning programs. 46 credit hours are required to complete the program, which includes three core courses, five specialization courses, two elective courses, and one capstone project.
Online classes are structured around theoretical frameworks and engage participants in hands-on learning experiences to enhance and modernize the English Language Learning environment for their future students. Graduates may find teaching jobs in adult or youth education.
Overview of ESL Master's Degrees
Teachers interested in working with non-English speaking students often choose a career path in English as a Second Language (ESL), also known as English Language Learning (ELL). Students and entry-level professionals wanting to further their knowledge in this career can pursue a master’s degree in ESL. With this degree, students can apply for higher-level positions in ESL, which comes with a significant increase in their annual salary rate. In addition, an online Master’s in ESL is recommended for busy professionals who need schedule flexibility when working on their graduate degrees.
What Is a Master’s in ESL?
A Master’s in ESL prepares students to work with children or adults whose primary language is not English. In addition, this program can provide an ELL or ESL certification, which is sometimes required for teachers to work in certain school districts. While a master’s degree is unnecessary to become an ELL/ESL teacher, obtaining a graduate degree in ESL can lead to opportunities for career development, such as leadership roles and higher salaries.
Online master's degree programs in ESL are available to those who already have a teaching license and want to add to their knowledge and skill set. It's also for individuals who don't have a teaching background and want to begin a career as an ESL teacher.
This type of program will generally take two years to complete and consist of around 30 credit hours of study.
After earning a master's degree, graduates will be qualified to work as an ESL teacher to students from Pre-K to the twelfth grade.
Coursework often involves classes like Language Structure and Acquisition, Linguistics, Language and Culture in the Classroom, and ESL for Children. Additionally, student teaching is also usually required. After earning a master's degree, graduates will be qualified to work as an ESL teacher to students from Pre-K to the twelfth grade. Those who are looking to earn a master's as a way to become a licensed teacher will need to check with their state for any additional requirements.
What Are the Requirements for an Online Masters in ESL?
To be admitted to one of these programs, an applicant will need to have earned a bachelor's degree, and depending on the program, this degree may or may not need to be in a related field. Depending on the nature of the program, the applicant may also need to have a teaching license and work experience in the field.
The admission requirements for an online Master’s in ESL can vary depending on the institution, but the following criteria are commonly requested:
- Application fees
- GRE scores
- Letters of recommendation
- Minimum GPA of 3.0
- Official or unofficial transcripts from an accredited institution
- Teaching license
- Valid government-issued ID
- Work experience
What Courses Will You Take in an Online Masters in ESL Program?
An online Masters in ESL program provides students with an overview of the skills and knowledge to excel in the ELL/ESL field. While each institution offers a variety of courses, the majority focus on the following areas: ESL for children, linguistics, language acquisition, curriculum development, instructional planning, language assessment, and research. In addition, students may be required to complete a capstone project before graduation.
Below we list some of the most common courses offered in an online masters in ESL program:
ESL Field Experience
Becoming an ESL teacher requires the ability to communicate with students in order to deliver the best learning experiences. ESL Field Experience is a standard course within an online master's in ESL program. In this course, students receive immersive, hands-on experiences working in the ESL profession. They are supervised by teachers while conducting face-to-face interactions with children in the classroom.
Second Language Acquisition (SLA)
This course provides a detailed overview of the different theories surrounding SLA. Students learn about factors like culture, learning environments, and more, which can influence the adoption of a second language. The course equips students with knowledge to assist others in learning a second language.
Methods and Materials of Teaching ESL
This course provides students with the theoretical foundation for teaching ESL by exposing students to the current and most popular teaching methods available. Students also review techniques and strategies, such as direct method, communicative language teaching (CLT), and total physical response (TPR). Additionally, students are often required to design and present micro-teaching lessons throughout the course.
Phonology for ESL Teachers
This introductory course provides students with a deeper understanding of English phonetics and phonology. Faculty help students improve their expertise in language and speech perception. Students learn how to apply the knowledge provided in the course to teach proper pronunciation to ESL learners of all ages.
Topics in Applied Linguistics
Applied linguistics is an umbrella term for various topics within the discipline. In this course, students learn about the social contexts of language, SLA, language and culture education, discourse analysis, and much more. Depending on the program, students may be required to complete a research project for a chosen topic in applied linguistics. By the end of the course, students can identify applied linguistics theories and constructs, which can later be used to design effective lesson planning and implementation for ESL learners.
Teaching Adult Language Learners
This course teaches students how to deliver the most practical teaching experiences for adult ESL learners. Students will learn about setting goals, implementing practices, and understanding the principles needed to address the needs of adult learners from different backgrounds. At the end of the course, students better understand how to evaluate and implement the best teaching practices for adult learners.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in ESL?
With a master’s degree in ESL, graduates are eligible for many mid- and senior-level positions. For those who want to take their ESL/ELL knowledge beyond the classroom, their master’s degree in ESL provides them with opportunities to gain the expertise needed to excel in other industries.
Graduates can pursue many career opportunities, such as the ones listed below:
Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers
In this profession, teachers work with adults whose primary language is not English. Adult basic and secondary education and ESL teachers design and implement lesson plans covering basic fundamental skills, such as speaking, reading, and writing English. Additionally, these professionals can help youth graduate high school or complete their GED by improving their English language skills.
Interpreters and Translators
Interpreters and translators act as middlemen who convert verbal and written communication between two parties when there are language barriers. These professionals can work in several settings, such as hospitals, care coordination agencies, education, insurance, courtrooms, etc. Interpreters and translators primarily work part-time schedules, as the demand for these professionals can vary based on opportunities.
Instructional Coordinators
Instructional coordinators, or curriculum specialists, ensure that educational material and teaching methods meet local, state, and federal requirements. Some of their responsibilities include monitoring teachers, reviewing analytics, and meeting with school staff to discuss areas for improvement. Instructional coordinators typically work in school and government settings in a full-time position. This position is one of the highest earning professions for graduates with a master's degree in ESL.
Social Workers
These professionals assist people of all ages when it comes to finding resources that improve their health, living environment, and much more. Social workers can choose to specialize in certain areas, such as childcare, disability, or medicine. Depending on where the social worker resides, they may be required to have a license to practice. This profession can work in various settings, such as schools, hospitals, government sectors, and child welfare agencies.
School and Career Counselors and Advisors
Many students need assistance with academic advising or mental health resources while completing their studies. School and career counselors and advisors assist students by helping them improve their academic, social, and emotional skills. In addition, career counselors can provide career guidance for students looking for employment. School and career counselors and advisors can work in schools or private practices.
FAQs About Online Master’s in ESL Programs
Can You Earn a Master’s in ESL Online?
Yes, there are many master's in ESL programs you can take online, including those from the accredited schools on our rankings list. If you work part or full time, an online degree program often offers the flexibility to complete coursework at your own pace, and it's also a more affordable option in most cases.
What Major Do You Need to Teach ESL?
Students can come from different specialties to teach ESL, though certain degrees are preferred by graduate programs and hiring managers. A bachelor’s degree — specifically in specialties such as ESL, TESOL, Elementary Education, Education, Linguistics, or a related major — is recommended to teach ESL. Having a bachelor’s degree in ESL provides a solid foundation before students pursue a master’s degree in ESL.
How Much Can You Earn as an ESL Teacher?
Becoming an ESL teacher with a master’s in ESL can lead to a high earning potential for new graduates. The median annual salary for an ESL teacher is $59,720 (or $28.71 an hour). However, this rate varies depending on candidates' location, educational background, and work experience.
This website offers school details to prospective students as an informational resource. The appearance of a school listing on this website should not be interpreted as an endorsement of the school by this site.
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