English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) (K – Adult)

The Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction: English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) (K – Adult) is designed for educators who wish to teach English to learners whose native language is not English.  Focusing on students aged elementary through adult, with emphasis on needs unique to ESOL learners. The coursework capitalizes on the uniqueness of each learner and focus on creating vibrant learning communities.

This Master in  Education degree program is for educators at all stages of their career who want to help students of all ages learn to read, write, and speak English more effectively. Get started on your application for the Master of Education degree with a concentration in ESOL today. To speak with an enrollment specialist call: 1 (877) 251-4405 or start your application here.

ESOL vs. ESL: It is hotly debated at conferences and forums, and in education journals around the world, whether the needs differ between students designated ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) and those designated ESL (English as a Second Language). Concordia University has defined ESOL- and ESL-focused courses as appropriate for students who need to learn English fluency because they are living in a country where English is spoken widely as the native language, and as the language of commerce and education.

Total Comments (18)

  1. Alice says:

    I would like to be able to teach English at the community college level. Would the ESOL degree work for that even if the student’s native language is English?

    • admissions says:

      Alice, Please review English Language Development (ELD). This program seems to be a better fit based on your career choice. The essential linguistics and language development in ELD applies to all ages. Click here: ELD. Thank you.

  2. Bianca says:

    What is the difference in the Reading and Adolescent Literacy concentrations?

  3. Stephanie says:

    Is it necessary to already be a certified teacher to enter this program? I hold a BA in English and am currently teaching English as a second language in China. I am from the United States.

  4. Sara says:

    I currently teach ESL for grades K-5. I eventually would like to teach adults. Would this be the correct path to take? I would like to get my master’s completely online. I realize it is not a certificate or license—but it will cover through adults, correct?!

    • admissions says:

      Sara, The ESOL is K-adult and this program is 100% online, so it may be a great fit for you. Feel free to give us a call and we will learn together if this is the right program for you. Thank you.

  5. john says:

    I am wondering if the M.Ed ESOL can be completed entirely online, or is a campus stay required to obtain the degree?

    I am aware that the program can be completed in 1 year, but is it possible to take a little longer than that if the 5 week classes are too intense?

    • admissions says:

      John, Yes, the Master’s degree is 100% online. The program is structured for one-year, with 3 one-week breaks throughout the year. This program is designed for educators working full-time. Thank you.

  6. Lindsey says:

    I am a licensed teacher and interested in pursuing my Master’s degree. Will this particular program also result in an ESOL endorsement?

    • admissions says:

      Lindsey, This program does not include an endorsement. Please check with your state to learn about the endorsement requirements. Thank you.

  7. Megan says:

    Does the M.Ed in English to Speakers of Other Languages result in extended certification areas? I am currently NY State certified in childhood education and special education. I would like to extend my certification to include P-12 TESOL. Thanks!

    • admissions says:

      Megan, The Master of Education degrees do not result in certification or licensure. Depending on your state regulations these degrees may assist you in earning certification/licensure. Please check with your district or the Department of Education for your state to learn if the Master’s will support certification. Thank you.

  8. Zohre says:

    Hi! I wanted to ask whether this program requires any tuition fees and, if yes, how I can pay for it from my homecountry and whether I should attend any classes during the educational process?

    • admin says:

      Zohre, the one-year program costs abut $20,000 USD (more information on our tuition page). The program consists of 10 courses, each 5 weeks long, and all the coursework is completed online. Payment can be made by credit card.

  9. Pablo says:

    I am currently teaching English in Spain. Would I be able to complete this program from Spain to help me find a job when I return to the states?

    • admin says:

      Pablo, we have students who are attending Concordia University from all over the world! Because the masters in education degree is delivered fully online, the course work can be done from anywhere and on a schedule that is convenient to you. Additionally, the program can be completed in one year.