M.A.

TESOL
First Choice,
Only
Choice
Program Facts
Delivery Method:
Blended
Start Term:
Fall, Spring, Summer
Completion Time:
3-6 Months
Credits:
9

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Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (M.A.)

About Our TESOL Program

As demand for English language instruction grows both globally and locally, the need for highly trained TESOL professionals is rising fast—especially in Pennsylvania, where the language school industry is projected to grow by 22% by 2025. With more U.S. immigrants reporting limited English proficiency, there’s a pressing need for educators who can meet the unique challenges of adult English language learners. Slippery Rock University’s MA TESOL program prepares you to make an impact through advanced, interdisciplinary training that blends theory, practice, and cultural understanding. Graduates are equipped for careers in higher education, community literacy, global TESOL settings, and instructional design helping learners thrive while advancing their own global career goals.

Why Get a TESOL Degree?

  • Have scheduling flexibility with online, blended, and once-weekly evening courses designed for working professionals.
  • Choose your path and complete the general or experiential track in just 16–24 months.
  • Learn across disciplines with courses from four academic departments that broaden your expertise.
  • Earn more than a degree, as the curriculum includes two stackable graduate certificates to boost your credentials.
  • Complete your practicum your way by gaining hands-on experience locally or abroad.
  • Learn from experts — all faculty hold doctoral degrees and bring real-world TESOL experience to the classroom.
ESL icon and language icons
2022 Masters in English Language Learning Award Badge
2023 Masters in English Language Learning Award Badge
2024 Masters in English Language Learning Award Badge
2023 Best Online Masters Programs Award
2022 Masters in English Language Learning Award Badge
2023 Masters in English Language Learning Award Badge
2024 Masters in English Language Learning Award Badge
2023 Best Online Masters Programs Award



Career Outcomes

A Master of Arts in TESOL is an advanced credential that prepares you for leadership roles in the rapidly growing field of English language education. With the language school industry in Pennsylvania projected to grow by 22% by 2025, an M.A. degree positions you for the most competitive and impactful roles. This program equips you not just to teach, but to lead—you'll gain the skills to develop curriculum, administer language programs, and train other educators in universities, community organizations, and corporate settings, both at home and abroad. This degree prepares you for advanced roles such as:

  • University or Community College ESL/EFL Instructor
  • Director of an English Language Program
  • Curriculum Developer or Instructional Designer
  • TESOL Teacher Trainer
  • International Student Advisor or Program Coordinator
  • Language Assessment Specialist
  • Corporate Language and Communications Trainer
  • ESL Coordinator for a school district or community organization

During my time in the TESOL program, I was able to immerse myself into linguistic studies and teaching approaches while simultaneously spending time applying newly learned skills in the field.

Sarah Cancroy ‘19
Student Alumni
Slippery Rock University

Requirements

What are the admission requirements for this program at SRU? Check out the requirements in the dropdowns of this section!

Program Director / Coordinator

Graduate Coordinator
Dr. Marnie Petray
Languages, Literatures, Cultures and Writing
724.738.4577
marnie.petray-covey@sru.edu

Email graduate.admissions@sru.edu or call 724.738.2051 for information regarding this program’s graduate application deadlines.

Attention: To apply for admission, please use the following link to apply now.

  • $25 Application Fee
  • Two Electronic Recommendation Forms
  • A 1-2 page Personal Statement explaining your personal and professional goals for TESOL study.
  • Official undergraduate and graduate transcripts. (Official transcripts must be sent by the institution via electronic transcript e-share to graduate.admissions@sru.edu or via mail. Faxed copies will not be considered official).
  • Undergraduate transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.75 in English, modern languages, linguistics, applied linguistics, education, or a related field.
  • SRU current/Alumni/former students, click here to order your official SRU final transcript and have it sent to graduate.admissions@sru.edu.
  • GRE not required.
  • International students should check with Global Engagement to review all international documents and visa status at graduate.intl@sru.edu.

If you are requesting review of your graduate transcripts for transfer of credit, please complete the transfer of credit form and submit to the Office of Graduate Admissions with official graduate transcripts. Please review SRU's transfer of credit policy.

Please note: For more information, visit www.sru.edu/graduate. Transfer course evaluation information can be found on our graduate website.

Resources from SRU

From application tips to academic information and support, we provide the guidance and tools you need to start strong and stay on track. Our resources are here to help you make the most of your SRU experience.

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