Master of TESOL

In the Master of TESOL you’ll gain a rich understanding of the critical issues in TESOL research, methodology and assessment. You will learn to apply current TESOL methods to enhance classroom practice and learning with creativity and initiative. You'll learn about designing classrooms that are culturally and linguistically appropriate.

Study Structure

The Master of TESOL course comprises both face-to-face learning and options for supported teacher placements. Entry points to the course are in both semester 1 and 2, designed to suit most schedules. For flexibility around professional or family commitments, we also offer the Master of TESOL on a part-time (domestic students only) or full-time basis.

Standard program:

• This is the standard offering for those without a teaching qualification or experience
• 200 points of coursework
• Year 1: 6x compulsory subjects and 2x electives. Students must complete 4 compulsory subjects in their first semester. The second semester will comprise 2 electives alongside the remaining 2 compulsory subjects. All 6 compulsory subjects and 2 electives must be completed before you enrol into any additional languages electives for Year 2.
• Year 2:
  • 6x additional languages electives and 1x capstone subject (with travel option); or
  • Alternative option for qualified students (75% minimum WAM requirements):  4x additional languages electives and 2x research subjects. See below for more information on eligibility criteria for the research option.

Research option:

• This alternative option is designed for students intending to pursue graduate research, such as a PhD
• The two research subjects must be undertaken in the final 50 points of the course, and the following eligibility criteria must be met to qualify for the research option:
• Students must achieve a Weighted Average Mark (WAM) of 75% or above in completed Master of TESOL studies, calculated at the point of enrolment in the research subjects. Click here for details of WAM calculation

Fast-track program:

• Up to 100 credit points of advanced standing will be given to applicants who have either: A four-year education degree, or equivalent; or an undergraduate degree in any discipline and at least 100 credit points, or equivalent, of graduate study in education.
• Year 2: Either the Capstone option or the Research option for qualified students (75% minimum WAM requirement), as detailed for the Standard program. Alternatively, see details of the EAL Teaching specialisation option further below.

Please note: Applicants who have completed the University of Melbourne Graduate Certificate in TESOL may be eligible to apply for entry to the Master of TESOL with 100 points of advanced standing, plus receive 50 points of credit for the ‘EAL Teaching’ specialisation subjects.

Also available: Graduate Certificate in TESOL

How will I study?

The delivery mode of our course is face-to-face classes on the Parkville campus, plus supported teacher placement in primary, secondary or adult educational settings.

The English as an Additional Language (EAL) Teaching specialisation requires 22 days of supervised placement at a school or similar setting during school hours. This option is available in the fast-track program, and requires eligibility for Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) registration. Please contact the VIT to determine eligibility if you do not already hold current registration.

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