TESOL: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Promote equity and inclusivity for English language learners (ELLs) and other culturally and linguistically diverse students. We offer certificates and master’s degrees for state ESL endorsement, initial ESL teacher certification, and for advanced education in TESOL. Learn more about TESOL: Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.
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View our Course Plan
Plot out your course plan by semester, whether you’re studying online, on campus, part-time, or full-time. Courses are held in the late afternoon and early evening.
Explore your options
Study online or through a blend of on-campus and online courses. Teach locally or abroad. We welcome in-state, out-of-state, and international applicants.
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Current students, faculty, and staff: Visit us on MyUSM
We’ve moved our information for current students, faculty, and staff to MyUSM — streamlining access through our secure, single sign-on portal. Login required.
Information for International Students
You can study online or come to our campus and study in America. Our Office of International Programs offers guidance with preparing your application.
Highlights
The only master’s in TESOL program in Maine
We offer the only master’s degree in TESOL in the state, and the demand for teachers with ESL (English as a Second Language) certification continues to increase.
Begin your studies in the fall, spring, or summer
We offer rolling admissions — start whenever is most convenient for you. Study part-time or full-time. Programs can be completed in one-to-two years.
Teach locally or abroad
Our alumni teach in the United States, Japan, United Arab Emirates, Belgium, and Egypt, among other countries. Through our programs, you can teach K-12 students or adults in the community.
TESOL, TEFL, and TESL instructors are needed worldwide
In Maine, throughout the U.S., and abroad, the need for TESOL, TESL, and TEFL (Teaching English as a Second and/or Foreign Language) instructors continues to increase.
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Fully online option: Master of Science in Education in TESOL
Study from anywhere in the world through our accelerated online program. Gain an understanding of language as a system and how to support English language learners.
Blended program option: Master of Science in Education in TESOL
With a blend of online and on-campus courses, you’ll have both flexibility and the opportunity to connect with peers, colleagues, and faculty in-person.
MSEd with initial K-12 ESL teacher certification
We offer a blend of online and on-campus courses, in addition to practicum and internship experience. There is no GRE admission requirement.
Certificate of Graduate Study: Obtain your ESL endorsement
Complete our graduate certificate program in as little as one year. We welcome both certified teachers and those working toward teacher certification.
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Certificate of Advanced Study: Self-directed post-masters program
Gain specialty in the areas of TESOL that best align with your interests and career. Can lead to state ESL endorsement.
Practice your teaching skills
We’ll connect you with opportunities to practice your ELL teaching skills, including volunteer and practicum positions anywhere in the world.
Connect with us!
We’d love to tell you more about the benefits of graduate study at the University of Southern Maine.
News
TESOL and Literacy Students and Alumnae Getting Published
USM TESOL Student is a 2019-20 Boren Fellow Recipient
USM's TESOL Ranked #21 for Most Affordable Online Colleges
Literacy Education Alumna Becomes Assistant Professor!
USM's MSEd in TESOL Ranked #25 Nationally for Best Online Colleges
USM Education alumna awarded Fulbright to teach in Indonesia
'Ellen' embraces USM student's inspiring story
Professor Andrea Stairs-Davenport completed the Read to Me Challenge!
USM Faculty, Current Students & Recent Graduates Present at 2015 Northern New England TESOL Conference
