Online M.S.E. in TESOL
Build bridges, transform lives
Get Started
Home
TESOL Master's

Every voice matters: Earn your master’s in TESOL at KU

With over 5.3 million English learners in U.S. public schools—more than 10% of all students—the demand for expert educators teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) continues to climb.1 A master's in TESOL provides the advanced knowledge and research-backed strategies essential for creating inclusive learning environments where multilingual students thrive. Whether you're transitioning into TESOL education or deepening your expertise with English language learners, this graduate-level credential demonstrates your commitment to excellence and opens doors to leadership roles in education.

KU offers two distinct pathways to meet your professional goals.

Already a licensed teacher? KU’s teacher track prepares you to step up your impact with multilingual learners through hands-on practicum experience, professional portfolio development, and specialized skills for creating truly inclusive classrooms.

Seeking new horizons as an education professional? The non-teacher track opens doors to TESOL careers in adult education, community programs, and beyond—no teaching license required, just passion for empowering English learners. Both tracks share the same rigorous curriculum and expert faculty instruction, ensuring you receive exceptional preparation regardless of your chosen path.

Jump to Curriculum

Both programs are Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) degrees in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in TESOL education. In order to enroll in either of these programs, a bachelor's degree is required.

Program details

  • 100% online with no campus visits required
  • Two options: Teacher Track and Non-Teacher Track
  • 10 courses (30 credit hours)
  • 8-week courses that fit your schedule
  • Complete in as few as two years
  • Research-grounded curriculum with practical applications
  • CAEP accreditation ensures quality standards
  • No GRE required for admission

Choose your TESOL track

Teacher track (M.S.E.)

For licensed educators ready to specialize in TESOL

If you already hold teaching licensure, this track prepares you to transition into or advance your career in TESOL education. You'll gain the specialized knowledge to support English language learners across age groups while completing a supervised practicum that puts theory into practice.

What you'll master:

You'll develop deep expertise in second language acquisition theories and their practical applications in diverse classroom settings. The curriculum emphasizes culturally responsive teaching strategies, effective assessment techniques for multilingual students, and research-based pedagogical approaches that help English language learners succeed academically while honoring their linguistic backgrounds. Your learning culminates in a supervised practicum experience where you'll apply these skills in real TESOL settings.

The online master’s in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in TESOL teacher track program meets the educational requirements for the added TESOL endorsement in the state of Kansas if the candidate already holds an initial or professional teaching license.

Choose this track to:

  • Get hands-on practicum in a real TESOL setting
  • Build a digital portfolio showcasing your professional growth
  • Receive preparation for Kansas Praxis® exam and TESOL endorsement to add to existing teaching license

Build skills for careers like:

  • PK-12 ESL specialist
  • Adult education instructor
  • TESOL program director
  • Educational consultant
  • International English teacher
  • Mainstream teacher with enhanced ELL support skills

Non-teacher track (M.S.E.)

For education professionals not seeking teaching licensure

Designed for professionals in educational settings who want to specialize in supporting English language learners without pursuing classroom teaching licensure. This track focuses on TESOL expertise applicable across various educational contexts.

What you'll master:

You'll gain comprehensive knowledge of second language acquisition theories and evidence-based practices for improving English language learning outcomes across various educational contexts. The program focuses on understanding diverse learner populations, implementing culturally responsive approaches, and developing the research and leadership skills needed to advocate effectively for English language learners in professional settings. Your studies conclude with a capstone project that demonstrates your research expertise and professional competency.

This program is an online Master of Science in Education (M.S.E.) degree in curriculum and instruction with an emphasis in TESOL. It does not lead to initial or advanced licensure in TESOL.

Choose this track to:

  • Explore the literacy development, research, and teaching practices that support emerging bilinguals
  • Build a digital portfolio showcasing your professional growth

Build skills for careers like:

  • Educational consultant for TESOL materials and programs
  • Teacher in international, adult learning contexts
  • Community-based adult education tutor
  • Government agency advisor on language learning policy
  • Corporate training specialist for multilingual environments
  • Nonprofit advocate for English language learners

Advance your skills, expand your impact

The University of Kansas online education programs are built for people who want to make a difference—in classrooms, schools, and communities. Whether you’re a teacher, administrator, parent, nonprofit professional, you’ll find programs that connect research to practice and provide tools you can put to use right away. With flexible online courses and dedicated faculty support, KU helps you grow your expertise while continuing the important work you’re already doing.

  • ✓ 8-week focused courses
  • ✓ Evidence-based, research-driven curriculum
  • ✓ Practical skills you can apply immediately
  • ✓ Top-ranked by the U.S. News & World Report*

*Retrieved on August 18, 2025 from usnews.com/education/online-education/university-of-kansas-155317

Download Program Brochure

Complete the form below to receive more information about your selected program, straight to your inbox.
By clicking "Get Program Brochure" and submitting this form, I agree to receive text messages, emails and other communication regarding educational programs and opportunities, and to be contacted by the University of Kansas and Everspring, its authorized representative. Message and data rates may apply. Message frequency varies. Reply HELP for help and STOP to cancel. View our privacy policy and disclosures.
“Overall, I have more understanding about the ways of implementing multicultural education within the general education classroom.”
Chelsea N., M.S.E. in TESOL ‘24

Master’s in TESOL online courses course descriptions

KU’s teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) online courses will provide you with strategies to support students learning English throughout their education. These master’s-level courses support both tracks of the program. Work with your admissions outreach advisor to determine the right classes and track for you.

C&T 709 Foundations of Curriculum and Instruction

Basic concepts and processes of curriculum and instruction, including theories, planning models, resources for decision-making, current trends, research and proposals for improvement of curriculum and instruction.

EPSY 715 Understanding Research in Education

This class presents core concepts for understanding and implementing research materials in education. You will acquire the fundamental skills to understand and critically analyze research in the field of education and related areas, and to apply research materials and strategies to your own practice. The course provides an overview of various research methodologies, introducing students to a wide array of general knowledge. Much of the material covered in this course will be studied in greater depth throughout your course work, and will form the basis for independent research and for the Master's Project. Topics include quantitative and qualitative methods and designs, historical and descriptive research, and program evaluation.

C&T 745 Reading and the English Language Learner in PreK-12 (Non-Teacher Track Only)

The course focuses on the literacy development, research, and effective teaching practices that support emerging bilinguals (EBs) and additive bilinguals becoming literate in PK - Grade 12 and adult academic settings. We examine how learning to read, writing, speaking and viewing in a new language are similar and/or dissimilar from these dimensions in a first language. Cognitive, sociocultural, linguistic and educational perspectives are investigated as part of this examination. Specific examples of challenges that exist for students as they learn to communicate in English are shared and problem-solved. Ways to connect students' home languages, background literacy knowledge and development are also explored. The course examines the essential components of literacy instruction: phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary development and comprehension. As each component is studied, implications for literacy development with EBs are highlighted.

C&T 807 Multicultural Education

In order to provide the student with an understanding of multicultural education, the course will examine the effects of such issues as ethnicity in America, the melting pot theory, separatism, cultural pluralism, legal issues and bilingual education upon the curriculum and instruction in today's classrooms. It will include an evaluation of materials for bias and stereotypes. Field experiences are a part of this course.

C&T 820 Methods OF TESOL

The purpose of this course is to study the objectives and methods of ESL/Bilingual education. Students will examine methods and techniques of teaching: listening, speaking, reading and writing in the ESL/Bilingual education settings. The course will also emphasize the importance of culture in second language teaching, and self-evaluation of teaching and instructional materials.

C&T 821 Assessment in TESOL

This course provides an overview of diagnostic techniques and instruments used to identify and remediate specific learning difficulties associated with normal second-language development in the areas of listening, speaking, reading and writing. The course includes a review of research concerning assessment as it relates to error analysis in the second-language context.

C&T 822 Second Language Acquisition for TESOL Educators

This course provides an intensive review of the theory and research base of second-language acquisition. Particular attention is given to the influence of research trends in linguistics and psychology on second-language education theory and practice. Current trends in second-language education are examined in light of the historical theory base.

C&T 824 Problems in Second Language Instruction

This course presents a study of curricula and instruction in the second-language setting at all levels with emphasis on educational research concerning these issues. Particular attention is given to developing competency in locating and utilizing sources of information and to preparing the research document. The course facilitates practical problem solving in the second-language learning context.

C&T 826 Linguistic Analysis for TESOL Educators

This course offers pre- and in-service teachers the basic foundations of language analysis necessary for the teaching of second/foreign languages. The course covers basic linguistic topics common to all human languages (grammatical, phonological and semantic aspects) with the intent to help teachers understand and address common languages problems that students face when learning English as a second/foreign language.

C&T 825 TESOL Practicum (Teacher Track Only)

This course provides a supervised teaching experience in a setting appropriate to the goals of the prospective ESL/Bilingual teacher: elementary, secondary or adult. Particular attention is given to lesson planning, classroom management and the development of self-evaluation techniques. This course will also emphasize structured classroom observation prior to teaching and techniques for developing and maintaining positive working relationships with other professionals in the school setting. Prerequisite: C&T 820, C&T 821, and C&T 822 or C&T 824. FLD.

C&T 890 Master’s Project (Capstone)

The master's project is a collection of artifacts completed during courses in the program, along with documentation of other activities demonstrating leadership and professionalism, to demonstrate the four program outcomes: Teaching All Students, Knowing and Using Research, Pedagogical Content Knowledge, and Foundational Knowledge.

Licensure disclosure

KU’s licensure programs strive to maintain accurate and up-to-date information about the educational requirements for licensure in U.S. states and territories. However, regulations are subject to change and varying interpretations. In addition to possible changes in educational requirements, licensure often includes additional requirements, such as specific examinations and additional training or practicum hours. It is highly recommended that students seek guidance from the appropriate licensing agency before beginning an academic program to ensure they know what is needed to obtain the license/certification/registration in the state in which they intend to practice and/or seek licensure. For more information, visit our licensure disclosures page: soehs.ku.edu/current-students/licensure/disclosures

A female teacher kneels next to a female student's desk.

Support multilingual learners by leading in TESOL education

English language learners bring rich diversity to classrooms, yet they all share one essential need: educators who understand their unique learning approaches and can create equitable environments where they flourish academically. Without educators who have specialized TESOL skills, these students often struggle in classes taught in a language they're still mastering, leading to frustration and academic setbacks.

Whether you're looking for comprehensive graduate-level training, focused professional development, or adding credentials to your existing license, KU offers multiple pathways to build your TESOL expertise.

  • The master's degree provides the most comprehensive preparation for TESOL leadership
  • The graduate certificate in TESOL offers focused training without licensure
  • TESOL licensure endorsement offers specialized credentials for teachers who want to add subject matter expertise to their resume

Each pathway empowers you to make a lasting difference in the lives of multilingual learners.

Explore Careers

Trying to decide which TESOL program is right for you?

Erica and Tatiana are experienced admissions outreach advisors dedicated to supporting education professionals like you. Working one-on-one, they’ll help you clarify your goals, choose an elective pathway, and navigate application and practicum planning.

Schedule a Call
Send an Email
Application Instructions
Close-up of KU Admission Advisors, Erica and Tatiana.

Make a lasting impact in education

Ready to join the next generation of educational leaders? KU's online education programs offer three starts per year, making it easier to begin your journey when the time is right for you.

Start an Application
Admissions Information

Jan
6
Application Deadline
January 6
Spring 2026 Term
Jan
20
Next Start
January 20
Spring 2026 Term
Sources
  1. Retrieved on August 6, 2025, from nces.ed.gov/programs/coe/indicator/cgf/english-learners-in-public-schools