Simmons College

Program Information

Degree Offered

M.A.-Teaching English as a Second Language

Format: Campus

Program Description:

MATESL prepares its graduates to teach English as a Second Language to children and adolescents in public schools or to adults in community or college level ESL programs. Our programs for Initial Licensure in grades Pre-K-6 or 5-12 are approved by the Massachusetts Department of Education. Our nonlicensure graduates teach English as a Second Language in the United States and English as a Foreign Language abroad. The double practicum — two semesters of teaching — is a popular option for all, and many MATESL graduates stress the extended student teaching experience as key to their professional success. Applicants typically hold a bachelor's degree in one of the liberal arts or sciences, showing a course in educational psychology, and foreign language proficiency at the intermediate level. Simmons has been successful in meeting a wide range of educational goals by providing each student with the advising necessary to develop a successful, individualized program of study. This personalized support is further enhanced by the small classes and close mentoring relationships that students develop with faculty in the program. Competitive merit scholarships are available for the most qualified applicants. Applicants are automatically considered for scholarships; there is no separate application. The MATESL Program offers two options that lead to eligibility for Initial Licensure and one non-licensure option. The non-licensure option, appropriate for teaching adult populations requires only seven courses plus either two semesters of student teaching practicum or one practicum followed by an elective. Those seeking a Massachusetts license to teach ESL to younger learners must enroll in eight to 10 courses plus either two semesters of student teaching practicum, one practicum complemented by an exploration of a special topic in the field, or an approved elective.

# of Credits Required:

32

International Student Requirements:

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of all applicants whose first language is not English. The exam will be waived if the applicant has earned a bachelor’s degree or higher from a U.S. institution. Officially translated and evaluated transcripts are required if not originally written in English. Only transcripts translated and evaluated by authorized organizations are accepted. Simmons College prefers either World Education Services (www.wes.org) or the Center for Educational Documentation (www.cedevaluations.com) International students must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds available to meet all the travel, living, and educational expenses for graduate study in the United States. This information must be provided if you are admitted to a graduate program at Simmons College.

Tuition & Financial Aid

Cost Per Credit Hour:

740.00 

Financial Aid Offered: No

Classification: Master's Colleges & Universities I

Institution Sector: Private not-for-profit

Locale: Large City

Size & Settings: 1,000 - 4,999