{"id":2128,"date":"2022-10-15T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-10-15T15:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/?p=2128"},"modified":"2023-10-19T06:13:55","modified_gmt":"2023-10-19T12:13:55","slug":"masters-tesol-worth-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/","title":{"rendered":"Is Getting a Master\u2019s in TESOL Worth It?"},"content":{"rendered":"<div style=\"margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px;\" class=\"sharethis-inline-share-buttons\" ><\/div>\n<p>If you&#8217;re dreaming of a career in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL), your research has likely uncovered plenty of training options. While most teachers earn <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TEFL certification<\/a>, others choose to take their education further by earning a graduate certificate or master&#8217;s degree in the field. Is getting a Master\u2019s in TESOL worth it for you? The short answer is that it depends on where you want to teach and what your professional goals are. Certain teaching and administrative positions require an MA in TESOL, as do certain countries. We&#8217;ll help you decide if this educational path is right for you!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_80 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#What_is_a_Masters_in_TESOL\" >What is a Master\u2019s in TESOL?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#Whats_the_difference_between_a_TEFLTESOL_certificate_and_an_MA_in_TESOL\" >What\u2019s the difference between a TEFL\/TESOL certificate and an MA in TESOL?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#TEFLTESOL_certificate\" >TEFL\/TESOL certificate<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#MA_in_TESOL\" >MA in TESOL<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#Earning_TEFLTESOL_certification_as_a_pathway_to_a_degree\" >Earning TEFL\/TESOL certification as a pathway to a degree<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#Who_typically_gets_a_Masters_in_TESOL\" >Who typically gets a Master\u2019s in TESOL?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#What_can_you_do_with_a_Masters_in_TESOL\" >What can you do with a Master\u2019s in TESOL?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#What_are_the_benefits_of_an_MA_TESOL\" >What are the benefits of an MA TESOL?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#How_much_does_a_Masters_in_TESOL_cost_Does_it_make_financial_sense_to_get_one\" >How much does a Master\u2019s in TESOL cost? Does it make financial sense to get one?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#Should_I_get_an_MA_TESOL_online\" >Should I get an MA TESOL online?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#What_are_some_tips_for_choosing_a_Masters_in_TESOL_program\" >What are some tips for choosing a Master\u2019s in TESOL program?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/masters-tesol-worth-it\/#Can_I_get_an_MA_TESOL_if_English_is_not_my_first_language\" >Can I get an MA TESOL if English is not my first language?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_a_Masters_in_TESOL\"><\/span>What is a Master\u2019s in TESOL?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many of you can probably already answer the question, <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/what-is-tesol\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">\u201cWhat is TESOL?\u201d<\/a> but you may find describing a Master\u2019s in TESOL a bit more difficult. Essentially, an MA in TESOL is an advanced degree in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. This graduate degree program, taken after you\u2019ve earned your undergraduate degree in a related subject, such as education or English, is usually two additional years of study. Typically, an MA TESOL program combines both research and experiential learning and encompasses a wide range of subjects.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_difference_between_a_TEFLTESOL_certificate_and_an_MA_in_TESOL\"><\/span>What\u2019s the difference between a TEFL\/TESOL certificate and an MA in TESOL?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TEFLTESOL_certificate\"><\/span>TEFL\/TESOL certificate<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Since so many acronyms are used in the English teaching world, it\u2019s not always easy to <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/tefl-tesol-tesl-celta-making-sense-teach-abroad-terms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">make sense of terms for teaching abroad and online<\/a>. As such, it\u2019s first worth mentioning that both the term TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and the term TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) are used interchangeably when it comes to the initial certification taken to teach the English language, so you&#8217;ll often see these referred to as TEFL\/TESOL certification courses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Obtaining a <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/online-tefl-certification\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TEFL certificate online<\/a> is the starting point for most people when they plan to teach English as a foreign language, either abroad, in their own home country, or online. These certification courses are typically much shorter than MA programs \u2013 most can be completed in one to three months \u2013 and are significantly less expensive (learn more about <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/tefl-certification-cost\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TEFL certification cost<\/a>). Plus, there are usually no prerequisites to take a TEFL\/TESOL course, so they are open to anyone with a good command of English and an interest in teaching.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In terms of content, TEFL\/TESOL certification courses may provide some theoretical training, but most will focus more on practical application, such as eliciting participation in the classroom or designing lesson plans. When you finish a TEFL\/TESOL certification course, you are qualified for most jobs at language schools or <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/companies-seeking-online-english-teachers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">ESL companies<\/a>, but you have not earned a university degree. In fact, some English teaching jobs will require that you have a degree (often in any subject) as well as TEFL\/TESOL certification.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"MA_in_TESOL\"><\/span>MA in TESOL<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The biggest differences between a TEFL\/TESOL certificate and an MA in TESOL are the level, duration of study, and content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Level\/duration of study<\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>MA TESOL programs are graduate-level, meaning you would first need to complete a bachelor\u2019s degree as a prerequisite to these programs. Furthermore, MA TESOL programs are typically two years of study, in contrast to just several months for a certification course.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h5 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Content <\/strong><\/h5>\n\n\n\n<p>Also, an MA TESOL focuses on theory more than a TEFL\/TESOL certificate does. In other words, MA programs dig far deeper into areas of study such as language pedagogy, acquisition, and assessment. Depending on which program you choose, you might spend a large amount of time considering subjects like the history of the English language, the relationship between language and culture, and integrated technology in the classroom. If you decide to pursue an MA, you can expect to dedicate a large portion of your time to research, as well. If you\u2019re someone who is deeply interested in theoretical-based learning, you\u2019ll probably find an MA TESOL worth it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-9232\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Loren-in-Myanmar.jpg\" alt=\"Loren, English Fellow Training Teachers in Myanmar\" class=\"wp-image-9232\" width=\"547\" height=\"410\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Loren-in-Myanmar.jpg 547w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Loren-in-Myanmar-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 547px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/loren-graduate-sit-english-language-fellow-myanmar\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Loren, a graduate of the MA TESOL program at Bridge Pathway Partner University SIT<\/a>, training teachers as an English Language Fellow in Myanmar<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Just because an MA in TESOL focuses on theory and research doesn\u2019t mean that the degree doesn\u2019t also incorporate experience-based learning. Some programs also include teaching practice, both through role-playing or modeling and teaching in real classrooms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Earning_TEFLTESOL_certification_as_a_pathway_to_a_degree\"><\/span>Earning TEFL\/TESOL certification as a pathway to a degree<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re on the fence as to whether an MA in TESOL is worth it for you, it&#8217;s important to note that some <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/college-credit-bridge-tefl-tesol-courses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TEFL\/TESOL programs may be taken for university credit<\/a>, giving you the option of later earning a degree in TESOL. Such certification courses do this in several ways:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A certification course may have been reviewed and recommended for university credit by an outside body, meaning you can apply that credit toward an undergraduate or graduate program in TESOL (<a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/course-ace-credit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">see Bridge courses that have been recommended for university credit<\/a>).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A certification course may be concurrently taken for college credit through an affiliated university.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A course may be accepted by certain universities as a pathway to their specific graduate programs in TESOL.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>For example, the <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\/online\/idelt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bridge International Diploma in English Language Teaching (IDELT<em>Online<\/em>\u2122) <\/a>has been evaluated and recommended for up to 9 semester hours of graduate-level college credit by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.acenet.edu\/Programs-Services\/Pages\/Credit-Transcripts\/About-Learning-Evaluation.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">The American Council on Education\u2019s College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE CREDIT\u00ae)<\/a>, so qualified enrollees can then transfer those credits to an MA program at a participating university. Bridge also partners with a number of universities in the U.S. and abroad that accept the IDELT<em>Online<\/em>\u2122 as a <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/ma-pathway-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">pathway to a master\u2019s degree program in TESOL<\/a> or, in some cases, a doctorate program or scholarship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/is-the-bridge-idelt-online-right-seasoned-instructor-helps-decide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find out if the IDELTOnline\u2122 course is right for you.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Who_typically_gets_a_Masters_in_TESOL\"><\/span>Who typically gets a Master\u2019s in TESOL?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>While language institutes and schools in many countries will accept a <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TEFL\/TESOL certificate<\/a> when hiring teachers, if you are considering a job in higher education, then you\u2019ll want to pursue a master\u2019s. Also, teaching in English-speaking countries, such as the United States, or teaching abroad in a competitive region, such as the Middle East, can require a Master\u2019s in TESOL.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For this reason, most people who pursue a Master\u2019s in TESOL plan to make a career out of teaching English as a foreign\/second language, as opposed to someone who just plans to <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/teach-english-abroad-step-by-step-guide-for-everyone\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">teach English abroad<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/teach-english-online-digital-nomad\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">online as a digital nomad<\/a> as a short-term adventure, for example, or someone who wants to <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/teaching-english-online-side-gig-k-12-teachers\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">teach English online as a part-time job<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image alignnone is-resized wp-image-9234\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Erin-Coyle_Sur-artwork-2.jpg\" alt=\"teach English in Oman\" class=\"wp-image-9234\" width=\"549\" height=\"412\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Erin-Coyle_Sur-artwork-2.jpg 549w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/Erin-Coyle_Sur-artwork-2-480x360.jpg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 549px, 100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Erin earned her Bridge TEFL certification first, then an MA in TESOL. She&#8217;s now teaching at <\/em>a <em>university in Oman. <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/experienced-efl-teacher-erin-transitions-from-china-to-oman\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Read her story.<\/a><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_can_you_do_with_a_Masters_in_TESOL\"><\/span>What can you do with a Master\u2019s in TESOL?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A Master\u2019s in TESOL isn\u2019t just for teaching in universities or in one of the aforementioned regions. It can also be your ticket to non-teaching roles, such as developing teaching materials for schools or larger companies. With an MA TESOL, you may be eligible for higher positions in a number of institutions that specialize in EFL\/ESL programs. You could become the next program director, curriculum writer, or ESL textbook editor.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/ma-tesol-jobs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Check out this guide to MA TESOL jobs to learn more!<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_the_benefits_of_an_MA_TESOL\"><\/span>What are the benefits of an MA TESOL?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the greatest benefits of getting a Master\u2019s in TESOL is that it opens you up to an incredibly large range of teaching possibilities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>You&#8217;ll be qualified to teach English anywhere in the world<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>You will generally have your pick when it comes to student level, and ESL teachers who have an MA are generally eligible to work at universities.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Having an MA under your belt will set you apart from other candidates vying for the same opportunities as you and lead to higher earning potential.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>There are tons of great job websites, such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.higheredjobs.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HigherEdJobs<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/careers.tesol.org\/jobs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">TESOL.org<\/a>, where you can find ESL admin and university teaching positions. The <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/jobs\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Bridge Job Board<\/a> also has an array of TEFL-related openings online and around the globe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_much_does_a_Masters_in_TESOL_cost_Does_it_make_financial_sense_to_get_one\"><\/span>How much does a Master\u2019s in TESOL cost? Does it make financial sense to get one?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>MA TESOL programs can range anywhere from $8,000-$30,000 in cost. Why such a wide range? It\u2019s because a number of factors are involved when it comes to determining an MA TESOL cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Course format<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps the biggest factor of all is whether or not you\u2019re taking classes online, in person, or some combination of the two. On-campus courses are almost always more expensive than online programs. <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/ma-pathway-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Compare the cost of several MA TESOL programs offered through Bridge Pathway Partner Universities.<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">University accreditation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another factor that plays a role in a Master\u2019s in TESOL cost is the university\u2019s accreditation. It\u2019s important to weigh cost versus quality, as getting the cheaper master\u2019s degree doesn\u2019t always pan out in the long run when taken through a school that is not accredited or recognized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the end, whether or not it\u2019s worth it for you to spend money on an MA TESOL boils down to what you intend to do with it. If you\u2019re serious about <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/careers-in-efl\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">making a career out of teaching English<\/a>, and you have some ideas about which types of institutions you want to apply to, then an MA can be a great choice. However, if you\u2019re unsure whether or not you\u2019ll enjoy teaching or you just want to spend one year abroad or you want to teach online, starting with a <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">TEFL\/TESOL certificate<\/a> makes more sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"601\" src=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/AdobeStock_143054915.jpeg\" alt=\"MA TESOL\" class=\"wp-image-20991\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/AdobeStock_143054915.jpeg 900w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/AdobeStock_143054915-480x321.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 900px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Should_I_get_an_MA_TESOL_online\"><\/span>Should I get an MA TESOL online?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If you decide to pursue an MA TESOL, earning your degree online has become a popular choice for busy, budget-conscious students. There are a number of benefits when it comes to getting an MA TESOL online.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>For one, you\u2019ll have a wide range of program options because you won\u2019t be limited to location.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The schedule is convenient for those who already have full-time jobs or families and need to complete courses on their own time.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Perhaps the biggest benefit of all is that an MA TESOL online costs much less than an on-campus program.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you\u2019ll need to consider if online learning is right for you. Some people love it, while others thrive with in-person interaction. While cost and convenience are definitely enormous factors to consider, your learning style is important as well since you\u2019ll want to get the most out of whichever program you choose.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_are_some_tips_for_choosing_a_Masters_in_TESOL_program\"><\/span>What are some tips for choosing a Master\u2019s in TESOL program?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Research, and then research some more!<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>The best thing you could possibly do when choosing a program for getting an MA in TESOL is to spend as much time as possible researching and comparing programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>See which options provide online versus on-site classes (or some combination of the two).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Make a list of each option\u2019s cost.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider how long each program lasts (one year? two?) and whether or not the dates fit with your schedule.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>To get started, compare programs at <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/ma-pathway-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Bridge MA Pathway Partner universities<\/a>, which accept the Bridge <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/courses\/online\/idelt\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IDELT<em>Online<\/em>\u2122<\/a> TEFL\/TESOL course as credit toward their graduate certificates, master&#8217;s degree programs, and even doctorates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Take accreditation seriously.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>This is something many people often take for granted when pursuing any sort of degree or certificate in TEFL\/TESOL; however, checking out an institution or university\u2019s accreditation is essential. Then, follow up by researching the accrediting body and seeing whether or not it&#8217;s legitimate and favorably regarded in the education community. The undeniable truth is that not every TEFL\/TESOL certificate or degree is equal, and you don\u2019t want to get stuck wasting money on a credential that won\u2019t be recognized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em><a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/Bridge-Accreditation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">You can read about Bridge&#8217;s accreditation here.<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Reach out and ask questions.<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t be afraid to contact the school or institution from the very beginning. Getting an MA in TESOL is a big commitment, and you want to make sure that those in charge of your program are going to be equally committed to you. It\u2019s important that they be willing to take the time to provide support and answer your questions beforehand. Whichever program you decide to enroll in is going to be an important part of your life for the next year or two. You definitely want a good feeling about it from the very beginning!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Can_I_get_an_MA_TESOL_if_English_is_not_my_first_language\"><\/span>Can I get an MA TESOL if English is not my first language?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/AdobeStock_190155822.jpeg\" alt=\"MA TESOL\" class=\"wp-image-20992\" srcset=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/AdobeStock_190155822.jpeg 900w, https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/06\/AdobeStock_190155822-480x320.jpeg 480w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 0px) and (max-width: 480px) 480px, (min-width: 481px) 900px, 100vw\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Yes, absolutely! While general entry requirements differ for various MA TESOL programs, if you\u2019re not a native English speaker, you\u2019ll generally need to submit proof that you\u2019re fluent in English. The majority of programs require the equivalent of at least a C1 level of English proficiency, as determined by <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/english-language-learner-levels-explained\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">CEFR<\/a> standards. Depending on the institution, proof of this level of English fluency can include records of completed secondary education in English, approved scores on select English language tests, or successful completion of certain English academic programs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">So, is an MA TESOL worth it?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When deciding whether a Master\u2019s in TESOL is worth it, you have to consider a myriad of factors such as time, cost, and future career plans. In the end, it\u2019s a personal decision that depends on where, who, and what you want to teach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><em>If you\u2019d like to begin your professional English language teaching career and think a master&#8217;s degree may be in your future, start by learning more about the <a href=\"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/ma-pathway-programs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">IDELTOnline\u2122 as a pathway to an MA TESOL<\/a>.<\/em><\/h4>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Earning a master\u2019s degree is a major commitment of time, money, and energy. You may be considering a career in teaching English as a foreign language, but is a master\u2019s in TESOL worth it for you? We\u2019ll examine the factors to consider and several paths that can get you there.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":9253,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","inline_featured_image":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[4,7],"tags":[],"post-language":[],"popular_posts":[],"class_list":["post-2128","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-professional-development","category-job-resources"],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/05\/MA-TESOL-Blog.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Camille Turner","author_link":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/author\/camille-turner\/"},"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2128","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2128"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2128\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":28727,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2128\/revisions\/28727"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/9253"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2128"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2128"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2128"},{"taxonomy":"post-language","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/post-language?post=2128"},{"taxonomy":"popular_posts","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bridge.edu\/tefl\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/popular_posts?post=2128"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}