Our Best College Values award is intended to highlight programs of study that are not only of reputably high quality, but that are affordable and pay off in the long run as well. At a time when the cost of a college education is higher than it has ever been, and a degree from a reputable school may be more important than ever, the stakes have never been higher when choosing a college. This BCV award is here to help make this decision a little easier.
For our 2016 online Master’s in Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages award winners we have selected 25 regionally accredited colleges and universities with above average reputations according to U.S. News and World Report and have ranked them according to our weighted methodology that aggregates the publicly available data of U.S. News scores, tuition rates, return on investment according to Payscale.com, graduation rates, and cohort default rates to produce an overall score of 1-100. The top 25 programs that come out of this process are those that are named our award winners.
Individuals with an advanced degree in education will enjoy better salaries, more advanced positions and career opportunities, and will benefit from intellectual and professional development that will improve teaching practice. Overall, getting a Master’s degree is an excellent way to advance in your career in education and being that growth in job opportunities for teachers is expected to vary from good to excellent in the next 10 years depending on the locality, grade level and subject taught according to the U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, candidates with advanced degrees will be best positioned to fill the top positions that will open.
In our increasingly globalized world, the demand for TESOL professionals is greater than ever before.
Yet, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, teachers of English as a second language (ESL) are in short supply. For professional educators working or interested in working with children or adults at various stages in their acquisition of the English language, a Master of Education in TESOL is a great option to increase your educational knowledge base skill set and career opportunities. This ranking will help you find a program of study that provides both a balance of reputation and affordability and the flexibility of online study for those already immersed in the demanding work of the education profession.
It should be noted that in building our ranking we take both in and out-of-state tuition into consideration. However, it is always the case that attending college in your state of residency will always be more affordable and ultimately provide a better return on investment than attending an out-of-state school. Where applicable, any program on this list offered through a public college or university that is in your state of residency should be considered among those at the top of the list.
We hope that this award proves to be a valuable resource as you move through the difficult process of selecting a school that meets all of your various needs. We wish you the best.
Note: Tuition rates listed are estimates and total tuition costs will vary from student to student and program to program based on a number of factors. Additionally, for those requiring state certification to advance into desired career positions, check state regulatory guidelines and authorizations before enrolling in a program outside of your desired state of employment to ensure that specific criteria for certifications will be met by the program of study. Generally speaking, certification is required for those who seek positions teaching children in schools; however, a teaching license is not needed to become an English language teacher who desires to work with adult populations.
#1. Texas A&M University
Located in College Station, Texas A&M university is the fourth-largest university in the United States. The university opened in 1876 as an Agricultural and Mechanical college. Today, Texas A&M enrolls over 64,300 students. It is widely considered a top university nationally and globally. TAMU is recognized particularly for its research contributions to animal cloning and petroleum engineering. The university has established a strong online presence with 40 plus online graduate degrees and certificates being offered in the Agricultural & Life Sciences, Dentistry, Education & Human Development, Engineering, Public Service, Nursing, Mathematics, and more. Online graduate education programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The Master’s in Applied Linguistics with emphasis in TESOL offered through Texas A&M University provides a broad range of classes to prepare students for an active role in teaching English to speakers of other languages. The program can be completed entirely online. Students seeking a Master’s in Applied Linguistics with emphasis in TESOL have the option to choose either a 30 hour program that includes a Thesis, or a 36 hour non thesis program that includes additional course electives.
Accreditation: Texas A&M University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $4,110
#2. University of Missouri
The University of Missouri was established in 1839 and is located in Columbia, Missouri. Mizzou is a member institution of the prestigious Association of American Universities and is designated as a “Doctoral/Research Extensive” university by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university enrolls over 35,400 students in a full range of academic programs at the bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral levels. The University of Missouri has a strong online presence and offers 30 online graduate degrees. The online degree offerings include programs in Education, Agricultural Education, Public Health, Gerontology, and Biomedical Sciences. U.S. News & World Report ranks highly the online bachelor’s programs, and online graduate education programs.
The Master of Education in Learning and Teaching with an Emphasis in TESOL offered through the University of Missouri is intended for those who are currently teaching or who are interested in teaching English as a Second/Foreign Language (ESL/EFL) in a variety of educational settings. Please note that this option does not confer a license to teach in U.S. public schools. All master’s students will be required to complete a practicum upon completion of the TESOL focus courses. Students currently teaching English language learners may take the 16-week practicum in their own classroom with online supervision by a TESOL instructor. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Missouri is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $11,649
#3. University of Georgia
Established in 1785, The University of Georgia is a public land-grant and sea-grant research university located on 759 acres in Athens, Georgia and is considered a public Ivy as well as being classified as a research university with “Very High Research Activity” by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. The University of Georgia enrolls over 35,100 students and in addition to traditional residential degree programs offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs online in business administration, education, writing, health sciences, internet technology, and more. Online programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report at #5 in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs, and #3. in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
The Master of Education in TESOL and World Language Education offered through the University of Georgia’s College of Education is designed to engage students in the complexity of language acquisition, communication among people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, education policy and social justice, and the instruction of emergent bilingual students. The program features a variety of field experiences and service-learning opportunities available in local schools or abroad. Many TESOL courses in the program are offered both online and in face-to-face formats. The degree culminates in a final portfolio demonstrating the student’s knowledge of their particular area of study. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Georgia is regionally accredited by the Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $12,132
Out-of-State: $35,100
#4. University of Cincinnati
Founded in 1819 the University of Cincinnati is a public research university and part of the University System of Ohio. Enrolling over 43,600 students, UC is the second largest university in the state of Ohio. The University of Cincinnati offers a wide range of online degree options at the associate’s, bachelor’s, and mater’s levels including programs in education, criminal justice, human services, information technology, health sciences, engineering, nursing, and more. The online programs at the University of Cincinnati rank highly in almost every category of U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
The online University of Cincinnati Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages program prepares students to embrace the concept that different languages and cultures are practiced at home. Along with this, the program will help students find effective ways to leverage this knowledge in their English instruction. The curriculum of the University of Cincinnati online Master of Education program strives to be at the forefront of educational innovation. Complemented by peer groups, a unique community of learning develops. A minimum of 33 credits are required to complete the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Cincinnati is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are regionally accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $15,246
#5. Lamar University
Lamar University is a public university located in Beaumont, Texas. The university was founded in 1923 and today enrolls nearly 15,000 students. The online programs were established in 2009. LU is recognized as a top National University by U.S. News and World Report and has high ranking programs in a number of different academic disciplines including its online graduate education programs. Lamar University offers eight online master’s degrees. The online degree offerings include Education, Health Promotion, Engineering Management, Nursing, and Criminal Justice. U.S. News & World Report highly ranks Lamar’s online bachelor’s programs, graduate education programs, and graduate nursing programs.
The Master of Education in Teacher Leadership with a Specialization in ESL online program offered through Lamar University introduces teachers to the design, methodologies and techniques of scientifically based educational research in making informed decisions that positively impact student achievement with particular emphasis on serving the needs of students with a primary language other than English. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Lamar University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $9,900
#6. Regis University
Regis University is a private Jesuit Catholic university, founded in 1877 now located in Denver, Colorado. Regis offers a variety of degrees and programs for undergraduate and graduate students as well as online programs. Regis University is a nationally-recognized, award-winning school with a mission in charity and community service. The university enrolls over 9,200 students and offers extensive online degree options in environmental sciences, education, behavioral sciences, nursing, pharmacy, physical therapy, computer and information sciences, and more. Regis’ online programs are highly ranked in almost every category of Best Online Programs by U.S. News & World Report.
Regis University’s Master of Arts in Education in Teaching the Linguistically Diverse is available with online classes and provides students with the latest research on how students develop as bilingual learners. Graduates will be prepared to help culturally and linguistically diverse students succeed academically and to fill future leadership roles in the school setting and beyond. The master’s degree requires between 33 and 35 credits for completion.
Accreditation: Regis University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council.
Tuition: $16,490
#7. Kansas State University
Kansas State University is a doctoral university located in Manhattan, Kansas. Founded in 1863 as a land-grant college, K-State is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state of Kansas. The university enrolls over 24,000 students and has branch campuses in Salina and Olathe. K-State offers a wide range of undergraduate programs as well as 65 master’s degrees and nearly 50 doctoral degrees. Kansas State University also operates an extensive online campus that is nationally recognized as a leader in innovative distance education technology. The online MBA programs, graduate education programs, and graduate engineering programs are all ranged highly by U.S. News & World Report.
Kansas State University Global Campus offers an online Master of Science in Curriculum and Instruction with specialization in English as a Second Language open to licensed teachers. The program is designed for educators seeking to increase their knowledge and learn new strategies for working with culturally and linguistically diverse students, and to assist students in continuing to make academic progress while they learn the English language. The program has been developed for teachers at all grade levels and content areas. A minimum of 31 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Kansas State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $16,399
#8. Valley City State University
Valley City State University is a public university located in Valley City, North Dakota and member of the North Dakota University System, enrolling over 1,300 students annually. Established as a Normal School, or Teacher’s College in 1890, VCSU still remains dedicated to producing some of the best educators in the upper midwest with Education and Teaching being among the most popular majors. VCSU offers a number of fully online degree options at the bachelor’s and master’s levels primarily in education. U.S. News & World Report highly ranks VCSU’s online programs in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
Valley City State University’s online Master of Education with ELL concentration is designed to provide in-service teachers with the cultural and linguistic pedagogy needed to address the ELL needs of students. Students complete two courses each semester and complete the degree in two years. In addition to course work an action research report, field experiences, and an oral presentation of a comprehensive capstone portfolio are required. A minimum of 34 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Valley City State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Tuition: $12,648
#9. University of Texas of the Permian Basin
The University of Texas of the Permian Basin (UTPB) was founded in 1973 and is located in Odessa, Texas. UTPB is part of the University of Texas system and did not begin accepting underclassmen – freshmen or sophomores – until 1991. UT Permian Basin is part of the University of Texas Online Consortium, which means that some of their distance degrees are offered in collaboration with other online University of Texas System universities. UTPB has online program offerings at the bachelor’s and master’s levels in education, business, public administration, child and family studies, communication, and more. UTPB’s online bachelor’s programs, MBA programs, and graduate education programs are all highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
The Master of Arts in Bilingual and/or English as a Second Language Education offered by UTPB is designed to prepare individuals in teaching, supervision or curriculum management. Students are offered the flexibility of choosing between two options; Bilingual education or ESL education. The Bilingual option is designed to prepare individuals who are proficient in Spanish for enriching careers educating in a bilingual environment. During their coursework, students examine a variety of topics, including cultural diversity, philosophical perspectives on teaching and learning, and the history and politics of bilingual education. Students choosing the ESL option learn effective strategies in teaching students whose native language is other than English. Students wishing to pursue this option do not need to be proficient in Spanish. 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Accreditation: The University of Texas of the Permian Basin is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs is education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $8,964
#10. University at Buffalo SUNY
The University at Buffalo was founded as a private college in 1846 but became part of the State University of New York System in 1962 and is the largest university in the system by enrollment with almost 30,000 students. UB is also the largest public university in the northeastern United States and has the largest endowment and research funding in the SUNY system. UB classifies as a research university with “Very High Research Activity” according to the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education. UB offer online degree programs primarily in education and is ranked highly by U.S. News & World Report in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
The Online Master of Education in TESOL offered through University at Buffalo’s School of Education prepares the graduate to teach in college level ESL (English as a Second Language) programs, adult level ESL programs for immigrants and refugees in the United States, and all levels internationally. Historically, the Ed.M. in TESOL has been considered the terminal professional degree for those who seek opportunities to teach ESL at all levels internationally and at the adult and college level in the United States. Students develop a practical approach underpinned by current theory and research in the fields of applied linguistics, educational theory, best practices in pedagogy, and second language acquisition. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: University at Buffalo SUNY is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Graduate education programs are recognized by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council.
Tuition
In-State: $14,949
Out-of-State: $30,525
#11. Concordia University Chicago
Concordia University Chicago is a private liberal arts university in the Lutheran tradition located in the Chicago suburb of River Forest, Illinois. The university was founded in 1864 and enrolls over 5,200 students. The school was founded as a teacher’s seminary and to this day, education remains Concordia’s largest academic program. The university offers a range of online degree programs at the associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels in organizational management, information systems, education, health sciences, religion, business administration, and more. Online programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” “Best Online MBA Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
Concordia University Chicago offers a Master of Arts in ESL designed for certified educators who wish to pursue an online program with a concentration in teaching and learning ESL/ESOL to become an accomplished ESL/ESOL teacher. This program leads to Illinois licensure in ESL. Candidates may also earn a graduate certificate in TESOL from Concordia-Chicago by taking five additional courses to receive skills and knowledge in teaching adult language learners in a variety of contexts and settings. Master’s students are required to implement an action research, self-study or other practitioner research projects. Data collection and analysis to inform researchers’ perspective as it relates to pertinent educational issues. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Concordia University Chicago is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $13,950
#12. George Washington University
George Washington University in the nation’s capital, is named for the first U.S. president. It has ten undergrad and graduate colleges and schools, plus campuses in Foggy Bottom, Mount Vernon, and Virginia. GWU is known to be one of the nations most politically active schools. It enrolls over 21,400 students. The online offering for GWU includes associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in arts, business, communication, education, engineering, law, health sciences, nursing, public policy, security, and more. Online programs are ranked highly in almost every category of U.S. News & World Report’s online rankings including #9 in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
George Washington University’s online Master of Arts in Special Education for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Learners leads to K-12 certification, equips current educators with the knowledge and skills to effectively understand and address the cultural, language, social and learning needs of a variety of students whose diversity and exceptionalities impacts their school success. The program is designed to train educators who are able to address a full continuum of needs of culturally and linguistically diverse exceptional students. This program provides advanced training options for current educators in related fields to increase their credentials and professional development. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: George Washington University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $26,400
#13. University of Nebraska Kearney
Established in 1905 as the state normal school, the University of Nebraska at Kearney is part of the University of Nebraska system. UNK’s campus spans 258 acres and boasts 32 buildings, not all of which are academic, but historical. UNK enrolls approximately 7,000 students. The university’s “eCampus” offers online undergraduate and graduate degree programs and has been recognized as one of the top online universities in the U.S. Online degree offerings are offered in a wide variety of disciplines including: education, biology, english, history, and more. UNK is ranked #25 in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs” by U.S. News & World Report.
The online Master of Arts in Education in Curriculum & Instruction with emphasis in English as a Second Language offered by the University of Nebraska Kearney is designed for public school teachers who would like to become certificated in K-12 English as a Second Language (ESL). The curriculum consists of a core of four courses in curriculum and instruction and eight courses in the ESL concentration. The ESL concentration area will qualify graduates for adding and ESL K-12 endorsement to the Nebraska Teaching Certificate. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Nebraska at Kearney is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $10,260
Out-of-State: $16,344
#14. Arizona Sate University
Arizona State University is a public research university with campuses across the city of Phoenix, Arizona. The university has the distinction of being ranked No. 1 among the “Most Innovative Schools in America” by U.S. News & World Report. The university is the largest public university in the U.S. by enrollment with over 82,000 students. The school is classified as a research university with very high research activity by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education and is ranked among the top research universities in the U.S. based on research output, innovation, development, research expenditures, number of awarded patents and awarded research grant proposals. In addition to its residential based degree programs, ASU offers extensive online study options leading to degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels in subjects including: art, business, communication, education, engineering, health, language, legal studies, science & math, sustainability, technology, and more. Among U.S. News & World Report’s online rankings, ASU ranks highly in every category including rankings among the top 5 in “Best Online MBA Programs,” Best Online Graduate Business Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs,” and is ranked among the top 60 in all rankings.
The Mary Loui Fulton Teachers College at Arizona State University offers an online Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction with a English as a Second Language concentration designed to prepare graduates to teach English language learners in a variety of settings, including U.S. schools. This program caters to professionals with a wide range of roles, including both new and experienced teachers, administrators, policymakers and community workers. Graduates will gain strategies for developing ESL skills across reading, writing and listening and for involving community and families as partners. You will also leave the program with a historical perspective of English learners in the U.S. and context of past and current policy towards ESL. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Arizona State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Tuition: $16,950
#15. Regent University
Regent University is a private Christian institution located in Virginia Beach, Virginia. The university was founded by Pat Robertson in 1977. In addition to its traditional on-campus programs, Regent offers distance education which includes 53 online bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Business, Communication, Divinity & Theology, Education, Government, and Law. U.S. News and World Report highly ranks the university’s online bachelor’s programs online business and MBA programs and online graduate education programs.
Regent University’s School of Education offers an online Master of Education in TESOL program designed for individuals who have a desire to teach the English language to children and/or adults who are learning English as a second or foreign language. Courses emphasize TESOL methodology, linguistics, intercultural/cross-cultural education, second language acquisition, literacy instruction and assessing student achievement. Individuals pursuing the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) approved TESOL Program – PreK-12 ESL Endorsement Track must be licensed classroom teachers. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Regent University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the Teacher Education Accreditation Council.
Tuition: $18,975
#16. Emporia State University
Located in the city of Emporia, Kansas, Emporia State University is a public university founded in 1863 as a Normal School for the preparation of teachers in the region. The university enrolls over 6,000 students in degree programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels through four colleges and schools. The Teachers’ College is one of only four post-secondary institutions in the nation to be identified as an “exemplary model teacher education program” by Arthur Levine in his 2006 national study. ESU has also established a wide range of online degree offerings in a variety of academic disciplines including: accountancy, art therapy, biology, business, counseling, psychology, education, english, nursing, library sciences, music, and more. The university’s online programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report in “Best Online MBA Programs,” “Best Online Graduate Business Programs,” and “Best Online Education Programs.”
Offered online, the Master of Arts in TESOL at Emporia State University’s Teachers College is designed to serve the increasing need for Teaching English as a Second and/or Foreign Language nationally at the college and public school levels and internationally in private and public institutions. The program offers in-depth graduate study in the areaa of applied linguistics. Some of the courses offered are: TESOL Methodology, Language Assessment and Evaluation, Sociolinguistics, Second Language Acquisition, Cross-Cultural Communication, TESOL Research Methods, Computer-Assisted Language Learning in TESOL, and more. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Emporia State University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Programs in education are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $11,484
Out-of-State: $15,732
#17. University of North Dakota
Established by the Dakota Territorial Assembly in 1883, six years before the establishment of the state of North Dakota, the University of North Dakota is still located in Grand Forks. The campus sits on over 550 acres. U.S. News & World Report ranked UND among the top 100 public universities in the country. UND offers a wide variety of bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees online in subjects including: education, social work, nursing, occupational therapy, engineering, business, communication, aerospace sciences, and more. Online program are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” “Best Online MBA Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Business Programs.”
The University of North Dakota offers an online Master of Education in English Language Learner Education designed to prepare students to teach English to speakers of other languages and serve culturally diverse students in K-12 education settings. Completion of UND’s online coursework leads to eligibility for the North Dakota ELL teacher endorsement and may completely or partially fulfill ELL, ESL or TESOL endorsement requirements in other states. Graduates will be prepared in the design and implementation of instruction that integrates English language development with academic learning and will be able to assess language proficiency levels of ELL/ESL students and use assessment results to plan instruction as well as understand the needs of all ELL/ESL students from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The program additionally includes an optional focus in Rural ELL/ESL Education—a unique feature of this particular program. A minimum of 35 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of North Dakota is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $14,105
#18. University of Northern Colorado
Established in 1889 as the State Normal School of Colorado, the University of Northern Colorado is a public research university located in Greeley, Colorado, with a strong background in teacher education. The university offers over 100 undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, humanities, business, human sciences, and education all with a strong emphasis in liberal arts education. The university offers nearly 50 graduate programs primarily in education. UNC online offers many degree options in disciplines such as American sign language, audiology, biological sciences, business, counseling, education, nursing, sociology, and more. UNC is recognized with high rankings in online bachelor’s programs and graduate education programs by U.S. News & World Report’s online program rankings.
The online Master of Arts in Teaching in Culturally and Linguistically Diverse program offered by the University of Northern Colorado’s School of Teacher Education was created to prepare teachers to serve the growing number of English language learners in their classrooms, and to address the critical shortage of teacher who can effectively educate students who are learning English as a new language. The program is designed to prepare students to meet the learning needs of culturally and linguistically diverse learners throughout Colorado and the United States and is based on the philosophy that emergent bilingual students can achieve academic success when educators and schools provide effective language instruction that promotes and supports academic growth. This program will provide students with the knowledge and classroom skills needed to meet the diverse language and academic needs of these learners. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Northern Colorado is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $19,470
#19. California University of Pennsylvania
California University of Pennsylvania is a public university located in the town of California, Pennsylvania. Founded in 1852 as a normal school for the preparation of teachers in the region, Cal U is a member institution of the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education. The university offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Cal U offers a wide range of academic programs and additionally offers a Global Online program which has been highly acclaimed as one of the top online colleges in the United States. Online programs offered include degrees in: athletic training, clinical mental health counseling, school psychology, business, social work, education, and more. U.S. News & World Report highly ranks Cal U’s online programs in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” “Best Online MBA Programs,” “Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
California University of Pennsylvania’s online Master of Education in English as a Second Language is for certified teachers interested in gaining a master’s degree or an additional certificate in ESL. The curriculum is aligned with the Pennsylvania Department of Education ESL Program Specialist Standards and Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Standards. Graduate students in the ESL program will apply knowledge in the following domains: language, culture, instruction, assessment, and professionalism. In each of these domains educators will be challenged to develop professionalism in language education, promote individual language rights, provide accessible and high quality education, develop collaboration in a global community, engage in research and reflective practice for educational improvement, and cultivate a respect for diversity and multiculturalism. The master’s degree requires a minimum of 33 credits for completion and includes the option of adding a professional certification for an additional 6 credits.
Accreditation: California University of Pennsylvania is regionally accredited by the Middle State Commission on Higher Education. Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Tuition $15,510
#20. Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University’s main campus is situated in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A nonsectarian research university, NSU is the nation’s eighth-largest not-for-profit private university. NSU was established in 1964 and today enrolls over 24,100 students. The campus also hosts the “University School of Nova Southeastern University”, a college preparatory school that serves grades Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12. Nova Southeastern University offers a wide variety of fully online degree options at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels in academic disciplines including business administration, education, entrepreneurship, criminal justice, health sciences, human resource management, marketing, nursing, psychology, and more. Online programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report in “Best Online Graduate Business Programs,” “Best Online Graduate Criminal Justice Programs,” “Best Online Graduate Education Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.”
Nova Southeastern University’s Fischer College of Education offers an Educational Specialist degree with a specialization in TESOL designed to prepare educators as experts on issues, trends, and policies of teaching English as a second language. Coursework for the program is offered through convenient online delivery. This specialization provides educators with skills for assessment and evaluation, as well as an international scope of English language acquisition. Course content for an Ed.S. in TESOL is research based and infuses best practices in education. The degree culminates with a field based project designed to engage the candidate in a problem-solving experience designed to improve or enhance an educational situation. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Nova Southeastern University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $22,140
#21. Concordia University Nebraska
Located in Seward, Nebraska, Concordia University is a private university affiliated with the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod as one of the ten schools in the Concordia University System. The university was established in 1894 and today enrolls over 2,300 students in degree programs offered through three colleges. Concordia University Nebraska offers degree completion and graduate degree programs online in healthcare administration, human services, public health, business administration, education, computer science, and more. Concordia University ranks highly in “Best Online Graduate Education Programs” according to U.S. News & World Report.
Concordia University Nebraska offers an online option of delivery for its Master of Education in TESOL that offers the in-depth knowledge and training to help you teach English language and literacy to the widest range of learners. The program works to develop ELL professionals who can support ELLs’ academic success by teaching language through academic content. Traditional and Fast Track progression are available for the program to be completed in 24 or 18 months respectively. A 45 hour practicum is required which is met by fulfilling hours at various points in the program and all hours must be completed by the end of the capstone course. A minimum of 36 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Concordia University Nebraska is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education Programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $25,092
#22. Northern Arizona University
Northern Arizona University is headquartered in Flagstaff, Arizona, and was founded as the Northern Arizona Normal School in 1899. The school began offering bachelor’s degrees in education in 1925, and during WWII, briefly became a Navy V-12 program training site. NAU has 36 satellite campuses in the state of Arizona, and its main campus in Flagstaff is surrounded by the largest contiguous ponderosa pine forest in the United States. NAU offers a variety of online degree programs in academic disciplines including: administration, communication, education, English, human relations, nursing, and more. U.S. News & World Report highly ranks its online programs in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
Northern Arizona University’s online Master of Education in Bilingual and Multicultural Education—ESL degree program prepares graduates to provide English as a Second Language (ESL) instruction, language support, and cultural education in the classroom and other environments and meets the Arizona ESL Endorsement requirements. Graduates will be prepared for a career as an English as a second language (ESL) classroom teacher, ESL resource teacher, or a teacher responsible for providing ESL instruction and support in the regular classroom or special settings. Candidates gain the knowledge, skills and dispositions for developing ESL skills across reading, writing, and listening, and for involving community and families as partners. A minimum of 30 credits are required.
Accreditation: Northern Arizona University is regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $19,980
#23. University of Memphis
Founded in 1912 in Memphis, Tennessee, the University of Memphis currently enrolls over 21,400 students and is the flagship institution of the Tennessee Board of Regents system. U of M offers a wide variety of online degree programs in subjects including English, art history, criminal justice, computer science, journalism, education, business administration, engineering, or more. Online programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report in “Best Online MBA Programs,” “Best Online Graduate Education Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Nursing Programs.”
The Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language offered online through the University of Memphis is designed to develop expertise in second language acquisition, cross-cultural issues, language policy and planning, and second/foreign language instruction. Unique opportunities exist for short-term teaching experiences in the Czech Republic through this program. A minimum of 33 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Memphis is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $19,140
#24. University of Massachusetts Boston
Located in Boston, The University of Massachusetts Boston is an urban public research university associated with the University of Massachusetts system. The school was founded in 1852 and today enrolls over 16,700 students through seven academic Colleges. UMass is the only public university in Boston. Online degree programs are offered through UMass Online in a variety of academic disciplines including: Global Affairs, Linguistics, Critical & Creative Thinking, History, Education, Counseling and Therapy, Nursing, and more.
The University of Massachusetts Boston’s online Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program includes concentrations in bilingual education, ESL instruction for English language learners, and foreign language pedagogy, which includes English as a Foreign Language. Courses are offered in basic theoretical linguistics, applied linguistics, and interdisciplinary areas of psycholinguistics and sociolinguistics. These courses provide students with a thorough understanding of the linguistic, cultural and ideological considerations that govern language acquisition and use. The program is thus designed to enable students to understand the diversity of issues inherent in the study of language so that they are well prepared to teach and do research in applied linguistics. A minimum of 30 credits are required for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: The University of Massachusetts is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition
In-State: $20,130
Out-of-State: $38,880
#25. Mercy College
Mercy College is a private, nonsectarian liberal arts college located in New York State. Founded in 1950, Mercy College’s main campus is located in Dobbs Ferry, New York and spans 55 acres alongside the Hudson River. The college began including distance education in the late 1980’s, and now offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate degrees that can be completely entirely online in subjects including: behavioral science, business administration, homeland security, computer information systems, education, English, nursing, psychology, and more. Mercy College’s online programs are highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report in “Best Online Bachelor’s Programs,” and “Best Online Graduate Education Programs.”
The Master of Science in TESOL at Mercy College is offered online and is designed to provide graduates with the content and pedagogical skills to teach a second language. The degree may lead to initial or professional certification in the state of New York. Track I candidates (initial) must complete the 15-week New York State required student teaching experience. Track II candidates (professional) must complete 20 days of clinical practice experience within an ESL Pre-K–12 school environment. Professional Certification in New York State requires three years of teaching experience. A minimum of 36 credits are reuiqred for completion of the degree.
Accreditation: Mercy College is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Education programs are recognized by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education.
Tuition: $30,312
