MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

The MA Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) course at Birkbeck University of London is designed for individuals who want to become qualified teachers of English as a foreign language. The course covers the latest theories and practices in TESOL, including language teaching methodologies, assessment and evaluation, and curriculum design. Students will learn how to create engaging and interactive learning materials, teach diverse language learner needs, and use technology to support language learning. The course also includes a practical component, where students will gain teaching experience through observation and participation in language classes. Upon completion of the course, graduates will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed as TESOL teachers in a variety of settings, including language schools, universities, and community organizations.

Additional Information

The MA TESOL course at Birkbeck University of London is accredited by the Teaching English Association (TEA) and meets the standards set by the UK Government's Office for Standards in Education (Ofsted). The course is delivered by experienced teachers and scholars in TESOL, and students will have access to state-of-the-art language teaching facilities. Graduates of the course can pursue careers as language teachers, teacher trainers, or language program managers.

Unlock Your Potential as a TESOL Professional at Birkbeck University of London

Birkbeck University of London is a world-renowned institution for TESOL education, with a long history of producing highly qualified and sought-after TESOL professionals. The university's location in the heart of London provides students with unparalleled access to language learning resources, including language schools, cultural institutions, and language exchange events. Birkbeck's commitment to innovation and excellence in TESOL education ensures that graduates are well-prepared for success in a rapidly changing global language landscape.

This course is specially structured to bridge the gap between theory and practice and help you reflect on the important balance between them. You will develop knowledge in key areas of research and gain further confidence in your own practice through appreciating individual and cultural styles of learning and communication. By advancing your knowledge of current literature and carrying out your own research for course assignments, you will be able to engage critically and constructively in debates relating to many aspects of language teaching.

Our MA uniquely offers you:

a focus on the multilingual and multicultural contexts of language learning and teaching

the opportunity to learn with students from all over the world and share experiences with locally based teachers to gain insight into a range of language teaching contexts in the UK

the chance to choose between your dissertation pathways - an empirical research investigation of an aspect of language teaching and learning or an independent library-based project on a relevant topic of your choice.

An important feature of this MA is its flexibility. You can follow your professional interests and choose to study aspects of teaching English and graduate with an MA TESOL, or you can focus on the teaching of languages other than English and graduate with an MA in Language Teaching.

Graduates of all programs can also pursue career paths in the local and national government, the charity sector, public relations and the media, marketing, lexicography and translation, and tourism/hospitality. Possible professions include:

language teacher (TESOL)

• secondary/further/higher education lecturer

• publisher

• translator

• speech and language therapist

• community development worker

• youth worker

• special educational needs teacher.

We offer a comprehensive Careers Service - Birkbeck Futures - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education, and future ambitions.

Usually at least a second-class honors degree (2:2) or above, or international equivalent, in a relevant subject and/or relevant professional training and language teaching experience. An interview may be required.

20 hours of work permit weekly for international students.