Master of Arts in TESOL

The Master of Arts in TESOL at Western Sydney University is for people who want to teach English to speakers of other languages, whether in Australia or overseas. Over two years full time, you study how language works, how people learn a second language, and how to plan lessons and assess learners. You also look at the relationship between language and culture, and at how English is used in different parts of the world. The course is delivered through units of study, each worth a set number of credit points, and you need to complete the required total to graduate. Teaching is organised into semesters, with some units offered in more than one session. You can usually choose between a coursework pathway and a research pathway, which may include a minor thesis.

What you study

Core units cover second language acquisition, teaching methodology, syllabus and materials design, and assessment. You also study linguistics and grammar for teachers, and intercultural communication. Later units let you specialise, for example, in teaching young learners, teaching English for academic purposes, or using technology in language teaching. If you take the research pathway, you write a supervised thesis on a topic in TESOL. The exact list of units is set by the university and can change, so check the official course page for the current structure.

How the degree is structured

A master's degree in Australia normally takes one to two years. This one is two years full time. It sits at level 9 on the Australian Qualifications Framework, above a bachelor degree and below a doctorate. You earn credit points for each unit you pass; the number of credit points per unit and the total needed for the award are set by the university. Some students enter with a teaching qualification or relevant work experience and may be eligible for credit for prior learning, which can shorten the course. If you are considering that, ask the university before you enrol.

Practical experience and who it suits

TESOL is a practical field, so the course includes opportunities to observe and practise teaching, often through a practicum or supervised teaching component. Western Sydney University has strong links with schools and community organisations in Greater Western Sydney, and many students do their placement in that region. The degree suits several groups: experienced teachers who want to add a TESOL qualification, people with a language or linguistics background who want to move into teaching, and professionals who work with migrant and refugee communities. It also suits those planning to teach English overseas. If you intend to teach in Australian schools, check the registration requirements of the relevant state authority, because a TESOL master's alone may not lead to teacher registration. If you are an international student, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight while your course is in session, and you may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) after you finish. Tuition is published on the CRICOS register under course code 092787J. Confirm fees, intake dates, English requirements and unit details on the official university page before applying.

• English language teacher in Australian language schools, TAFE and community colleges
• EAL/D teacher or classroom support in primary and secondary schools (check state registration requirements)
• Teacher of English as a foreign language overseas, including in Asia, the Middle East and Europe
• Lecturer or tutor in English language programs at universities and pathway colleges
• Curriculum developer or materials writer for language publishers and online providers
• Language assessor or examiner for English proficiency tests
• Adult literacy and numeracy teacher in community education
• Education officer or program coordinator in migrant and refugee settlement services
• Corporate language trainer in government, business and industry
• Researcher or PhD candidate in applied linguistics and TESOL