Program Overview

Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

The Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MTESOL) degree at The University of Waikato provides dedicated pathways for both new and experienced teachers. This program unlocks global opportunities with a TESOL qualification.

Program Details

• Points and Duration: 180 points, 1.5 years
• Locations: Hamilton, Online
• Area of Study: School of Education
• Start Dates: Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)

Why Study the Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages?

In this program, students develop the knowledge and skills needed to teach English to speakers of other languages via one of two study pathways: pre-service or in-service. Students have the option to choose a teaching practice paper, which puts them in the classroom, micro-teaching with peers and formal teaching with learners, as well as papers in applied linguistics, second language acquisition, and education theory.

Career Opportunities

• Teach ESOL in NZ or Abroad
• Private Tutor
• Teacher Trainer
• Teach within Language Schools
• Language support for migrants and refugees
• Materials development
• Language assessment development
• Doctoral studies

Degree Information

Plan Your Study

The MTESOL degree is offered in two pathways: in-service and pre-service. The in-service pathway is designed for teaching professionals who have at least two years of teaching experience and wish to further their understanding of TESOL teaching and how languages are learned and taught.

Year 1

• APPLN564 Second Language Acquisition: Theory and Research (30 points)
• APPLN566 Pedagogic Linguistics for TESOL (30 points)
• Choose a paper from List A or B
• APPLN501 Research Methods in Applied Linguistics (30 points)

Year 2

• Choose a paper from List A or B
• APPLN585 TESOL Research Report (30 points)

List A

• APPLN562 Second Language Teaching Practicum
• APPLN565 Second Language Testing and Programme Evaluation
• MTESL503 Multilingualism in Language Education: Theories, Practices, Policies, and Critical Perspectives

List B

• DINST521 Critical Studies in Disability and Inclusion
• MNMGT511 Managing People and Projects
• DLRNG500 Debates in Digital Learning and Educational Technology
• MAORI571 Decolonising Theory and Indigenous Studies
• 500 level EDLED (Education Leadership) Papers - 30 points only

Entry Requirements

Admission normally requires:

1. IELTS 6.5 or equivalent English language
2. A bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline (education, language studies, English, language teaching, and humanities) with a B grade average, or professional experience equivalent to 3-5 years full-time work or volunteer experience in an area relevant to the degree.

Fees and Scholarships

• Estimated Fees: $9,640 per year (domestic students)
• Domestic Tuition Fees: Approximate annual tuition fees and costs for domestic students enrolled in one year of full-time study.
• Scholarships: Visit the Scholarship finder for more information about possible scholarships.

What Our Students Are Saying

"I've never felt so supported in a learning environment. Waikato recognised my experience, encouraged me from day one, and made online study feel personal and connected. It's reminded me that growth is always possible, no matter your path." - Sandra Pringle, Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.