English to Speakers of Other Languages, Master of Arts in Teaching

The Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) English to Speakers of Other Languages program is a dynamic interdisciplinary program jointly administered by the English and Education Departments. This program prepares teachers of English as a Second Language to apply to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for licensure if they choose. A general track is offered for those who wish to pursue other career options available in ESL including those in colleges, community organizations, adult education, or overseas. The core curriculum emphasizes linguistics and language acquisition and also principles, methods, practice, and research. The MAT ESOL also prepares students to pursue doctoral studies in the field.

Admission Requirements

Program Requirements

Upon acceptance, you will complete a tentative Plan of Study in consultation with the program coordinator. You must request that any transfer credits be considered at this time. Please note that no more than three courses taken before admission to the program can be counted towards the degree. You should meet regularly with the coordinator to discuss your progress and revise your plan of study, as needed.

All candidates for the MAT in ESOL (both licensure and general tracks) must demonstrate proficiency in a foreign language by one of the following options: a) proof of satisfactory completion of six hours of undergraduate credit in a foreign language; b) a passing evaluation on the departmental language examination administered by the World Languages and Cultures Department; c) a passing score on a foreign language MTEL or valid license to teach a foreign language; or d) approval of program coordinator.

Licensure Track

Licensure Preparation Phase I: TESOL Core (Introduce: 18 credits)

Licensure Preparation Phase II: TESOL Methods (Practice: 8 credits)

Licensure Preparation Phase III: Practicum (Demonstrate: 4.5 - 6 credits)

Electives (3 credits)

Choose one in consultation with program coordinator.

Programmatic Assessments

Total Credits for Licensure: 33.5 - 35

*The half practicum may be needed in lieu of the full practicum for those students who are already licensed in another field, but who do not have a master’s degree.

Additional Information and Notes

Candidates for educational licensure must also pass the Massachusetts Tests for Educator Licensure.

General Track

Core Courses (18 credits)

Methods (6 credits)

Field Experience (3 credits)

EDS 796F - Field Experience in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages in Varied Contexts (for students who have not completed a practicum in K-12 public schools)

Electives (6 credits)

Choose two in consultation with program coordinator.