Best Online Master’s in ESL Programs
Discover the benefits of getting an online master’s degree in ESL, including potential career paths, salary ranges, and program costs.
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As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the demand for English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers continues to grow. In the U.S., an estimated 5 million public school students were English learners in 2020, and the number continues to increase, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). With this in mind, there has never been a better time to pursue a career in this field.
Whether you’re already a teacher looking to advance your career or someone interested in entering the field of ESL, earning an online master’s degree in the subject can provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in this growing industry.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of earning this degree, the cost of programs, and potential salary ranges for graduates.
Best Online Master’s in ESL Programs
How We Rank Schools
Albizu University-Miami
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Albizu University - Miami delivers an online master of science in TESOL with an exceptional student education concentration. By completing this 30-credit program, candidates learn to use interventions and methodologies that enhance language acquisition among students with limited to no English proficiency. Coursework is delivered through the Blackboard platform.
The degree plan includes courses like cross-cultural communication and understanding, instructional strategies for learning disabilities, and applied linguistics. Candidates also examine best practices in ESOL testing and evaluation. To earn their online master's degree in English language learning, students must complete one full year of residency.
Application requirements consist of a minimum 3.0 GPA and two recommendation letters. CAU grants up to six transfer credits for prior college coursework completed with a "B" grade or higher.
63%
$13,112
67%
$13,112
- Acceptance Rate
- 100%
- Students Enrolled
- 787
- Institution Type
- Private
Azusa Pacific University
- Azusa, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Azusa Pacific University offers more than 150 undergraduate and graduate degrees, many of which students can earn remotely. Program options include an online master of arts in TESOL designed for aspiring and experienced educators. Through an innovative curriculum, candidates develop crucial theoretical foundations and prepare for diverse teaching environments and scenarios.
Coursework includes second language acquisition, intercultural communications, and language program design. Candidates also learn to teach English grammar and pronunciation to students of all ages and backgrounds. Similar to other master's in English language learning programs, the APU track culminates with a comprehensive portfolio presentation.
Distance learners can enroll in the fall or spring. Applicants need a regionally accredited bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. They must also submit a statement of purpose, a resume or statement of experience, and two recommendation letters.
36%
$17,180
84%
$17,180
- Acceptance Rate
- 79%
- Students Enrolled
- 6,487
- Institution Type
- Private
Concordia University-Nebraska
- Seward, NE
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Concordia University - Nebraska delivers 17 fully remote academic programs through Blackboard. Graduate offerings include an online master of education in TESOL accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. Through accelerated eight-week courses, candidates may earn their degree in as few as 18 months.
The curriculum covers topics in research-based educational practices; curriculum, instruction, and assessment; and theories and second language acquisition. Students also examine English linguistics, with focus on the elements applicable to language teaching and learning. They gain hands-on experience by completing a 45-hour practicum.
This online master's in English language learning program does not require standardized test scores. Applicants must submit a 500-750 word personal statement that details their professional background and career objectives. Concordia allows graduate students to fulfill 25% of their degree requirements with transfer credits.
25%
$7,650
78%
$7,650
- Acceptance Rate
- 90%
- Students Enrolled
- 3,423
- Institution Type
- Private
Harding University
- Searcy, AR
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Located in Searcy, Arkansas, Harding University offers an online master of education in elementary education with a TESL specialization. This 35-credit program prepares candidates with advanced knowledge of subject matter and pedagogy, and allows them to work for schools, government agencies, and private companies. Distance education is delivered through the Canvas platform.
The curriculum includes classes like human growth/development, education in an urban setting, and school law and policy. Students also explore the instructional applications of technology. They complete the program by taking a comprehensive exam.
This online master's in English language learning program requires applicants to have a valid teaching license. They also need a minimum 2.75 GPA and adequate GRE/MAT/PLT scores. Additional admission materials include three recommendation letters.
29%
$13,036
87%
$13,036
- Acceptance Rate
- 100%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,608
- Institution Type
- Private
Newman University
- Wichita, KS
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Newman University enrolls 3,400 students across 50 academic programs, including an online master of science in education with a concentration in ESOL curriculum and instruction. Distance learners can graduate in under two years by taking accelerated eight-week courses through Canvas.
The master's in English language learning curriculum totals 33 credits and includes coursework like cultural diversity, advanced instructional methods, and applied linguistics. Students also explore leadership theories and coaching techniques. They develop hands-on skills by completing an intensive practicum experience.
Applicants need an active Kansas teaching license. They must also have a regionally accredited bachelor's degree earned with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Admission materials consist of two professional recommendations and a 300-word writing sample explaining their personal education philosophy.
32%
$9,000
71%
$9,000
- Acceptance Rate
- 48%
- Students Enrolled
- 2,787
- Institution Type
- Private
University of Maryland-Baltimore County
- Baltimore, MD
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Maryland - Baltimore County is a renowned public research institution that enrolls about 13,600 students each year. Graduate candidates may enroll in an online master of arts in TESOL program. Distance learners can complete a fully remote curriculum or create a hybrid learning experience by taking some classes on campus.
In lieu of the general track, master's in English language learning candidates can pursue thesis and P-12 certification options. Courses include instructional systems development, linguistics for ESOL/bilingual educators, and research designs in education. Students also examine the grammar of American English.
UMBC offers fall, spring, and summer entry dates, and accepts applications on a rolling basis. Applicants need a minimum 3.0 GPA and must submit a statement of purpose and three recommendation letters.
66%
$12,960
85%
$22,266
- Acceptance Rate
- 72%
- Students Enrolled
- 13,906
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Northern Iowa
- Cedar Falls, IA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Based in Cedar Falls, the University of Northern Iowa delivers more than 50 career-focused graduate programs. The catalog includes an online master of arts in TESOL/Spanish that totals 33 credits. This non-thesis program prepares graduates to teach English and Spanish to speakers of other languages in academic and professional settings.
Required courses include phonetics, phonology, and language teaching; second language acquisition; and forms and functions of English grammar. Candidates round out degree work with a teaching portfolio presentation and a comprehensive exam. This online master's in English language learning program boasts a high success rate, with 90% of students finding employment after graduation.
Applicants must submit a personal statement, a writing sample, and three recommendation letters. UNI does not require GRE scores. The university offers a variety of financial aid, including graduate assistantships and scholarships.
48%
$10,030
82%
$21,502
- Acceptance Rate
- 87%
- Students Enrolled
- 9,283
- Institution Type
- Public
University of Southern California
- Los Angeles, CA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
The University of Southern California serves more than 47,000 students each year on campus and online. Distance learners may pursue an online master of arts in teaching - teaching English to speakers of other languages. Through a curriculum that emphasizes culturally responsive instructional strategies, candidates are prepared to work as TESOL teachers in the U.S. and abroad.
Coursework covers topics in applied linguistics for English language educators and social foundations of language education. Candidates also explore assessment and instruction for diverse language learners. This online master's in English language learning program allows students to augment their training by earning an English language development credential or a gifted education certificate.
Applicants must possess a regionally accredited bachelor's degree and a minimum 3.0 GPA. Additional materials include a 250-word personal statement, a resume or CV, and 2-3 recommendation letters. They also need to pass a timed writing assessment.
30%
$66,640
97%
$66,640
- Acceptance Rate
- 10%
- Students Enrolled
- 47,147
- Institution Type
- Private
Webster University
- Saint Louis, MO
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- Accredited
Webster University maintains its flagship campus in Saint Louis, Missouri, and enrolls over 11,400 students annually. Graduate candidates may enroll in an online master of arts in TESOL program to develop the theoretical knowledge and instructional skills needed to teach non-native speakers. The 33-credit curriculum covers core topics like language and culture, principles and practices of language testing, and material development in language classrooms.
Students take advanced classes in either an ESL/EFL or a K-12 English language learner emphasis. The former track allows candidates to earn a Missouri ELL certification by taking an additional 21 credits of coursework. All master's in English language learning candidates engage in practicum training.
Webster offers full admission to applicants with at least a 2.5 GPA. Candidates with a GPA of 2.0-2.49 may enroll on a provisional basis.
73%
$13,140
69%
$13,140
- Acceptance Rate
- 96%
- Students Enrolled
- 4,873
- Institution Type
- Private
Why Should You Get an Online Master’s Degree in ESL?
- Flexibility: Online programs are designed to accommodate the schedules of busy working professionals and those with family responsibilities. You can typically access course materials and complete assignments at your own pace, making it easier to balance your studies with other commitments.
- Career Advancement: An advanced degree in ESL can boost your teaching salary and help you meet state-mandated teaching qualifications. This can lead to more job opportunities and potential promotions. In fact, data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) shows that those with master’s degrees earned over $200 more each week than those with a bachelor’s degree in 2022.
- Leadership Opportunities: A master’s degree in ESL not only prepares you to teach but also to assume leadership roles in your school or district. You could become an instructional coordinator, curriculum developer, or even an academic advisor.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Typically, online programs are more affordable than their traditional counterparts. Enrolling in an online course can save you money on housing and commuting fees. Plus, online programs offer more flexibility, so you can work while earning your degree.
How Much Does an Online Master’s Degree in ESL Cost?
The cost of an online master’s degree in ESL can vary significantly based on several factors, including the specific school and program. The following table displays the average annual cost of tuition and fees at different kinds of institutions.
| Institution Type | Average Annual Tuition and Fees (2021-2022) |
|---|---|
| Public Schools | $12,596 |
| Private Schools | $28,017 |
What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in ESL?
With an online master’s in ESL, you can choose from various careers — both in and out of the classroom. You can find roles at K-12 and postsecondary settings or at nonprofits, working with underserved communities. You can even work in government agencies, working both domestically and internationally.
Popular positions for ESL graduates include:
- Adult education teacher
- Academic advisor
- Corporate trainer
- Instructional designer
- Curriculum leader
- ESL textbook editor
- ELL program manager
According to the BLS, the jobs for ESL teachers are projected to decline over the next decade. So broadening your horizons by gaining experience outside the classroom might help your chances of securing a job after graduation.
Meanwhile, the BLS projects jobs for corporate trainers, instructional designers, and academic advisors to grow in the coming years.
How Much Can You Make With a Master’s in ESL?
It’s no secret that teachers don’t choose their profession to become rich. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t make a fair salary with a master’s in ESL. The following table displays the average annual salaries for workers with different types of master’s degrees.
| Degree | Average Annual Salary (2024) |
|---|---|
| MAT in ESL | $50,000 |
| M.Ed. in ESL | $55,000 |
| MA in ESL | $60,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions About an Online Master’s in ESL
Online master’s programs in ESL are respected. These courses of study offer rigorous curricula similar to in-person programs and can lead to career advancement opportunities. They provide flexibility for working professionals and can help them meet state requirements, potentially increasing salary.
The best way to ensure a program is reputable is to check its accreditation status. Typically, a program must be accredited for students to transfer credits and qualify for federal financial aid.
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