MA in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, University of Limerick

12 Months

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About this course

This MA in TESOL is designed to provide initial teacher education for those aiming to teach English to Speakers of Other Languages, including English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL). It's suitable for both newcomers seeking their first qualification and experienced teachers looking to upskill or attain an MA. The program caters to both L1 and L2 English users through language-specific modules. It emphasizes understanding the theoretical and practical aspects of language teaching, promoting informed and critical pedagogical approaches. The course incorporates modern techniques such as language technology and corpus-based language description. Participants can complete one or two teaching practice modules and have the option to exit with a Graduate Diploma after two semesters.

Why this course is highly recommended

This course is ideal for those aspiring to teach English internationally, whether at the school or university level, or in language centers. The program’s emphasis on theoretical understanding, practical training, and research-ready skills make it highly relevant for a competitive job market. Graduates benefit from an advanced qualification that can improve their employment prospects, especially in language schools and higher education institutions. The option to gain teaching experience through modules further enhances career readiness.

Specialisation

The program specializes in delivering comprehensive training for teaching English to non-native speakers, covering ESOL, EFL, and ESL contexts. It includes dedicated modules for language-specific instruction, especially tailored for first-language and second-language English speakers. The curriculum balances linguistic theory, pedagogic skills, and research, with a focus on contemporary teaching practices, including the use of new technologies and materials tailored to international educational settings.

Course fees

Application fees

17.95L

1st year tuition fees

17.95L

Living cost

Degree requirements

Applicants need a second or first class honours primary degree or equivalent professional qualification, typically at Level 8 according to the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland. All candidates must attend an interview, which can be conducted via telephone or Skype if overseas. Additional criteria include language proficiency, prior teaching experience, and qualifications, with specific requirements for teaching practice modules and elective course choices to be discussed during the application process.

English language test

PTE

TOEFL

DUOLINGO

120

IELTS

6.5

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University of Limerick admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates of this program can pursue careers in teaching at various levels, including university, primary, and secondary education. Other opportunities include school management, developing educational materials, publishing, technical writing, adult education, and further academic research such as PhD studies. The program’s focus on modern pedagogical tools and research prepares students for diverse roles in the global language teaching industry.

FAQs

What are the English language requirements for international students?

International students need an IELTS composite score between 6.5 and 7, with at least 6 in any individual component.

Can I exit the program early?

Yes, after completing the two taught semesters (60 credits), you can opt to exit with a Graduate Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.