Graduate Direct Entry - Master of Arts - Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Program Description

The Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MA/TESOL) Program prepares students for a career as an ESOL teacher or language specialist who helps students develop skills for diverse and global societies. The program also offers opportunities, especially at Gonzaga's English Language Center (ELC), for current and future foreign language teachers who want to more deeply explore how language is learned and taught.

Courses integrate theory and practice to build knowledge on language and its use, the interrelationships of cultures, teaching methods and language acquisition. Students will work collaboratively with faculty and classmates to explore new ideas on learning and teaching. Hands-on projects and other field-based learning opportunities prepare students to plan, teach, reflect, research and lead in schools and the community.

The multicultural learning community is made up of students of all backgrounds, professional goals and language abilities, and there is a partnership with Gonzaga Global for students who wish to work on their language skills before joining the program. This exposure to diverse perspectives will help students better understand issues of second language acquisition and learning and teaching in a global society.

Gonzaga also encourages student and faculty research and critical reflection on the form and substance of language learning and teaching. Through these projects, students could help contribute to the field’s understanding of language, the factors of communication and community building.