Frequently Asked Questions
No. The M.A. in TESOL is designed for both credential and non-credential students. A California teaching credential is required for most K–12 public school teaching positions, but it is not required for admission to the M.A. in TESOL.
Yes. Students apply separately to the credential program and the M.A. in TESOL. Depending on the credential pathway and approved program plan, selected credential courses may satisfy M.A. in TESOL elective requirements, and credential field experience may fulfill the TESOL practicum requirement.
No. The teaching credential program and the M.A. in TESOL have separate application and admission processes.
The program requires 30 semester units: six core TESOL courses and four approved electives.
Completion time depends on course load, course sequencing, and whether a student is also completing a credential. Many students complete the M.A. in approximately two years while attending part time.
Courses are generally scheduled in the late afternoon or evening. Approximately half of the program’s courses are offered in a hybrid format. Course formats and schedules vary by semester.
No. The program includes in-person and hybrid courses and is not a fully online degree.
Many students work while enrolled. Evening and hybrid scheduling is intended to support working professionals, but students should review the demands of each semester with the Graduate Advisor.
Yes. The program includes a required TESOL practicum. Approved credential field experience may satisfy the practicum requirement for eligible credential students.
The M.A. in TESOL does not require California credential student teaching. Students pursuing a separate teaching credential must complete that credential program’s fieldwork and student-teaching requirements.
M.A. in TESOL students complete a comprehensive examination as the culminating experience.
A limited number of appropriate graduate units may be considered for transfer, subject to University policy, course equivalency, recency, and prior approval. Students should consult the Graduate Advisor before assuming that a course will transfer.
Graduates pursue work in adult education, community colleges, universities, K–12 multilingual education, intensive English programs, international schools, language institutes, curriculum and assessment, teacher education, program administration, educational technology, and related fields. Position requirements vary by employer.
The M.A. in TESOL provides graduate preparation relevant to community college ESL instruction. Minimum qualifications and hiring requirements are determined by individual colleges and districts, so applicants should review current job announcements and district policies.
Yes, when the program is open to international applicants for the selected term. International applicants must meet the University’s application, academic-record, visa, and English language proficiency requirements.
The program does not require the GRE.
Schedule an appointment with the TESOL Program Coordinator and Graduate Advisor using the advising link below.