5 Reasons Why Getting A Master's In TESOL Is Worth It
3rd April 2023
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) has gained immense popularity in recent years, owing to the increasing demand for English language proficiency. TESOL professionals are in high demand across the globe, and the competition is becoming increasingly intense. A Master's degree in TESOL can help you stand out in this crowded field.
In addition, if you are looking for a reliable institute to pursue your Master’s in TESOL course then we do recommend our ACT’s Masters Of Arts In Education With TESOL, which will definitely help you to boost your teaching career.
Now, let’s explore reasons why getting a Master's degree in TESOL is worth the time, effort, and investment.
What is a Master's degree in TESOL?
A Master's degree in TESOL is a graduate-level program that provides advanced knowledge and skills in the career of teaching English to speakers of other languages. The curriculum focuses on language acquisition, teaching methods, linguistics, and cultural studies. The program aims to prepare students for leadership roles in TESOL, including teaching at a college or university, curriculum development, teacher training, and administration.
What’s the difference between a TEFL/TESOL certificate and an MA in TESOL?
A TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) or TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) certificate program provides basic training in making a career in teaching English to speakers of other languages, usually for a duration of a few weeks to a few months. These programs are designed for individuals who are new to the field of TESOL and want to gain basic teaching skills.
On the other hand, an MA in TESOL is a graduate-level program that provides advanced knowledge and skills in the field of TESOL. The program is designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in TESOL and want to gain in-depth knowledge of teaching methods, language acquisition, linguistics, and cultural studies.
Which kinds of person think of pursuing Masters in TESOL?
Individuals who typically pursue a Master's degree in TESOL include:
1. Experienced English language teachers:
Many experienced English language teachers pursue a Master's degree in TESOL to gain advanced knowledge and skills in the field. They may also be interested in pursuing leadership roles in TESOL, such as curriculum development, teacher training, and administration.
2. Recent college graduates:
Recent college graduates who are interested in pursuing a career in TESOL may choose to pursue a Master's degree in TESOL to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to become an English language teacher.
3. Career changers:
Individuals who are looking to change their careers and are interested in teaching English to speakers of other languages may choose to pursue a Master's degree in TESOL.
Salary potential with a Master's degree in TESOL
A Master's degree in TESOL can significantly increase your salary potential in the field of English language teaching. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers of all subjects was $79,540 in May 2020.
However, the median annual wage for postsecondary teachers of English as a second language was $59,370, which is lower than the median annual wage for teachers of other subjects. Having a Master's degree in TESOL can help you earn a higher salary in this field.
What are the benefits of a Master's in TESOL?
1. Advanced knowledge and skills:
A Master's degree in TESOL provides advanced knowledge and skills in making a career in teaching English to speakers of other languages. The curriculum focuses on language acquisition, teaching methods, linguistics, and cultural studies. This knowledge and skills can help you become a more effective English language teacher and prepare you for leadership roles in TESOL.
2. Career advancement:
A Master's degree in TESOL can help you advance your career in the field of English language teaching. With advanced knowledge and skills, you may be able to take on leadership roles, such as curriculum development, teacher training, and administration.
3. Networking opportunities:
A Master's degree in TESOL can provide you with networking opportunities that can help you advance your career. You may have the chance to meet other professionals in the field of TESOL, attend conferences, and participate in professional development activities.
4. Global opportunities:
A Master's degree in TESOL can open up global opportunities for you. With the increasing demand for English language proficiency across the globe, you may be able to find teaching opportunities in different countries.
5. Personal growth:
A Master's degree in TESOL can also help you grow personally. You may gain a deeper understanding of different cultures and languages, which can broaden your perspective and enhance your personal growth.
How much does a Master's in TESOL cost?
The cost of a Master's degree in TESOL varies depending on the institution and program. The cost can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more.
Whether or not it makes financial sense to get a Master's degree in TESOL depends on your career goals and financial situation. If you are interested in pursuing a career in TESOL and want to advance your career, a Master's degree in TESOL can be a good investment. However, if you are not sure if you want to pursue a career in TESOL or if you cannot afford the tuition, it may not be a good financial decision.
Should I get a Master's in TESOL online?
Getting a Master's degree in TESOL online from an institute like ACT can be a good option for individuals who cannot attend traditional classes due to work or personal commitments. Online programs offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to study at your own pace and on your own schedule. However, it is important to choose an accredited online program that provides the same quality education as traditional programs.
When choosing a Master's in TESOL program, consider the following:
1. Accreditation:
Choose an accredited program to ensure that you receive a quality education and that employers recognize your degree.
2. Curriculum:
Review the curriculum to ensure that it covers the topics that you are interested in and that it provides the necessary knowledge and skills for your career goals.
3. Faculty:
Research the faculty to ensure that they have experience and expertise in the field of TESOL.
4. Location:
Consider the location of the program and whether it is convenient for you to attend classes or whether it is an online program.
5. Cost:
Consider the cost of the program and whether it is within your budget or not. Do financial planning before pursuing your Masters Of Arts In Education With TESOL from any reputable institute.
Should you get a Master's in TESOL if English is not your first language?
Yes, you can get a Master’s TESOL if English is not your first language. However, most programs require that you have a certain level of English proficiency, usually demonstrated through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. Some programs may also provide English language support for non-native speakers to help them succeed in the program.
The value of a Master's in TESOL for personal and professional growth
In conclusion, getting a Master's degree in TESOL is worth the time, effort, and investment. A Master's degree in TESOL provides you with advanced knowledge and skills in the field of English language teaching, as well as career advantages, higher salaries, networking opportunities, and access to research and resources. Moreover, there are different types of Master's degrees in TESOL that you can choose from, depending on your career goals and interests.
By choosing the right Master's program in TESOL from the right institute, you can achieve your personal and professional goals and make a positive impact on the lives of English language learners around the world.
So, if you are passionate about teaching English to speakers of other languages and want to take your skills to the next level, consider getting a Masters Of Arts In Education With TESOL from a reputable institute like the Asian College Of Teachers(ACT).