What Will I Learn in an ESL Degree Program?

An ESL degree program offers specialized education in teaching English as a second language. In many ESL programs, you will find that the curriculum is similar to that of a regular teaching degree, but there is an added concentration in courses that prepare you to teach English as a second language. Courses typical to an ESL teaching program include English grammar, material selection, literature and linguistics, student evaluation and educational methodology. You can specialize in a certain type of ESL teaching, such as adult education, private tutoring or primary schools.

BA in ESL	MA in ESL Studies

What Can I Do With an ESL Degree?

There is a great need for people to become bilingual, and ESL teachers can find work in many different situations. Most often, ESL teachers will work in elementary or secondary schools, especially in areas with a large number of immigrants wishing to learn English. If you choose to work in a secondary or primary school, you will typically need to earn a teaching certificate in order to begin work. There are also needs for adult ESL classes, offered in a classroom or private tutoring situation. You may find additional positions in higher education, such as community colleges or universities.

What Is the Career Outlook for ESL Degree Students?

With a growing rate of immigration to the U.S., ESL teachers here can expect a healthy job market. There should be strong job creation for teachers all over the country, but the best opportunities will be found in high immigration areas, such as Miami, New York, Chicago, Houston and Los Angeles. ESL teachers will enjoy job opportunities that are more plentiful than other teachers, as ESL is in great demand in schools. There are also opportunities abroad for ESL teachers, as the world continues to become more globalized and people increasingly seek to learn English. An average salary for an ESL teacher is about $47,000.