Program Overview

Master's Degree (MA) in Teaching English as a Second Language

The Master's degree in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) is ideal for individuals who are passionate about helping non-native speakers develop proficiency in English to succeed academically and professionally. Graduates can pursue careers as ESL teachers, curriculum developers, or language program directors, working in K-12 schools, universities, adult education centers, or international education programs to enhance language acquisition and cultural integration.

Program Overview

The Department of Modern and Classical Languages offers a Master’s degree (36 cr.) and a Graduate Certificate (12 cr.) in TESL. The TESL Program is dedicated to developing professional English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers for a career in education. The faculty work closely with learners to deepen their understanding of second language learning, teaching methods, and the English language. We orient teachers to learner-centered pedagogy which requires teachers to be empathetic to learners’ needs, understanding of how and why people learn, and skilled at second language teaching methods and techniques.

Our Accreditation

This program is accredited by the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), recognizing our commitment to high standards in teacher preparation. This accreditation assures prospective students that our program meets rigorous benchmarks for quality, continuous improvement, and positive impact in the field of education.

Program Details

• Offered by: College of Arts and Sciences
• Credit Hours: 36
• Credential: MA
• Tuition / Credit Hour:
  • Resident: $825.50
  • Non-Resident: $2,060.50

Admission Requirements

Please view the Graduate School's Admission Requirements. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.

Application Requirements

Please view the application requirements for the Graduate School. If there are Program Specific Requirements listed below, those will also apply.

Application Deadlines

Domestic

• Fall: 07/24/2026
• Spring: 12/12/2025

International

• Fall: 04/15/2026
• Spring: 09/15/2025

Plan to Pursue Licensure Outside of Kentucky

If you plan to obtain professional licensure outside of Kentucky, please refer to the Licensure page to confirm whether the program meets the educational requirements for professional licensure in your state of interest.

Explore Funding Options

As a graduate student, there are additional opportunities for student funding. Once you are admitted into a degree-bearing graduate program at UK, you can apply for a wide variety of financial assistance, including assistantships and fellowships. These opportunities can be tied to your program’s availability, so you should inquire with your program director about opportunities available within your program.

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