Course Overview
Course summary
Our Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) course combines theoretical academic study with practical application and skills development in English language teaching. Our course provides advanced training for TESOL professionals, and examines the latest developments in TESOL methodology and related issues. You'll develop the practical and professional skills involved in TESOL, along with the ability to analyse and apply theoretical perspectives to practical situations.
The MA enables you to develop your skills in argument, synthesis and critical expression of TESOL issues, and apply them in different teaching contexts. You'll also enhance your advanced skills of research, presentation and analysis in TESOL contexts. Nurturing your professional development and skills in pursuing further independent research is a key part of the course, preparing you to make a full contribution in your specialist area.
The course consists of three core modules and a range of option modules. The Language and Learning: Description and Analysis core module introduces in-depth exploration of the core concepts in the description and analysis of language and language learning, with specific reference to English language teaching and second language acquisition. The Language Teaching Methods core module examines a wide range of current practice and developments, including communicative competence in language learning and teaching, language teaching methodology, and discrete and integrated skills. The Dissertation is the third core module.
While you complete your MA, you have the option to enrol on a CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) course with an institution near the University. The CELTA fee is in addition to the TESOL MA course fee.
Alternatively, this course is also available fully online.
Top reasons to study with us
- Our course is open to you whether you're a teacher or if you don't have teaching experience yet
- Our small seminar groups are led by lecturers who are also experienced language teachers
- We offer option modules in testing, materials development, intercultural communication, and more
Course structure
The following modules are indicative of what you'll study on this course.
Core modules
This module introduces and encourages in-depth exploration of core concepts in the description and analysis of language, with specific reference to English language teaching. The module also introduces and encourages in-depth exploration of core concepts in language learning, with specific reference to second language acquisition and the implications of these concepts for the language teacher. The module is divided into two units, the first on language description and analysis, and the second on language learning.
The module examines current practice and developments in language learning and teaching, including communicative competence. A range of topical issues in language learning and teaching are covered.
Development, execution, and writing-up of an independent research project on a topic chosen by you. All students will attend regular research seminars. Individual supervision will provide topic-specific guidance.
Option modules
This module offers a range of different linguistic tools for analysing written text. Texts are analysed for lexical and grammatical cohesion, metonymy and metaphor, and register and thematic progression (Hallidayan functional grammar). Texts are also analysed using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and Multimodal Discourse Analysis (MDA). You'll acquire a theoretical understanding of the main approaches to Written Discourse Analysis, and the practical skills for carrying out these analyses on real texts. You will also gain a broader awareness of how written discourse is constructed by comparing it to spoken discourse, and by discussing it in terms of more general semiotic and communication theories.
You'll gain a greater understanding of what is happening in cross-cultural communication, and develop your ability to do it well. In the first part of the module you will examine critically different theories of the nature of cultural difference and its impact on cross-cultural interaction. You'll also explore theories of the intercultural abilities needed to manage such interaction effectively. In the second part of the module you'll apply these theories to specific issues in professional contexts of potential relevance, such as language teaching.
This module explores concepts and issues in sociolinguistics; research methods; languages and factors such as age, class, gender, ethnicity; language variation, choice, planning, change; language in face-to- face interaction.
The module introduces Languages for Specific Purposes (LSP) and English for Specific Purposes (ESP). The module examines the different requirements in terms of needs, aspirations, and appropriate modes of instruction and assessment, of different types of language learner. It will enable you to add to your existing ELT knowledge and experience, and to engage meaningfully in relevant LSP/ESP developments.
By developing your understanding of the theory and principles of educational attainment, this module will lead you to a critical review of language course materials. You will consider the nature of learning, and analyse learners’ needs and aspirations in relation to the production of course materials. There is a strong emphasis on practical skills in this course, and you'll be encouraged to produce publishable material.
You'll examine past and current developments in language testing and assessment. This includes the role of language tests in measuring achievement and communicative proficiency, whether diagnostic, prognostic, performance or achievement. You'll analyse various types of test, and have the opportunity to develop new testing materials for your own purposes.
Studying the TESOL MA at Westminster
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Open evenings
Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
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Careers
Our Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) course provides you with the training and preparation to make a significant contribution in instructor, manager and researcher roles.
Prepare for your TESOL career
You'll gain the skills and knowledge to progress as an advanced English Language Teaching practitioner or manager in a variety of national, regional and cultural educational systems.
Gain work experience in London schools
While studying the MA, you may apply for limited-time work placements in London secondary schools through our Explore Teaching scheme, subject to availability.
Employers around the world
The University’s Careers and Employability Service has built up a network of over 3,000 employers around the world, helping all our students explore and connect with exciting opportunities and careers.
Graduate employers
Graduates from this course have found employment at organisations including:
- Ashmole Academy
- Eastern Mediterranean University
- Italian Consulate, London
- Paddington Academy
- Regent College London
Job roles
This course will prepare you for a variety of roles, including:
- Education manager
- Education researcher
- EFL organisation leader
- School English teacher
- University English teacher or lecturer
Westminster Employability Award
Employers value graduates who have invested in their personal and professional development – and our Westminster Employability Award gives you the chance to formally document and demonstrate these activities and achievements.
The award is flexible and can be completed in your own time, allowing you to choose from a set of extracurricular activities.
Activities might include gaining experience through a part-time job or placement, signing up to a University-run scheme – such as mentoring or teaching in a school – or completing online exercises.
Read more about our Westminster Employability Award.
Course Leader
Dr Sean Sutherland
Senior Lecturer in English Language and Linguistics
I’ve been teaching at the University of Westminster since 2007. I’ve realised since then that being in central London is the best place in the world to be if you’re interested in studying aspects of English or studying language teaching (I wrote my PhD thesis about the social aspects of language teaching, so I have an interest in both English language and in TESOL.).
The linguistic diversity is spectacular, both in terms of the number of different languages and in terms of the number of varieties of English you hear daily. Our staff and students come from around the city, the country and the world.
Being here at the University of Westminster is a great opportunity to interact with a global community of like-minded people.
Why study this course?
Gain a CELTA qualification alongside the MA
You may enrol on a CELTA course with an institution near the University for an additional fee.
Fantastic central London location
You'll be based at our Regent Street Campus in the heart of central London, with easy access to London's huge range of library, cultural and language resources.
Prior teaching experience is not needed
Our course is open to you whether you're already teaching or if you don't have teaching experience yet.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2).
Once you have applied, you’ll be asked to work on the following assignment: "Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages must take account of the learners' educational context." In no more than 1,500 words, discuss the statement above with reference to (A) current approaches to English language teaching; (B) an educational context that you are familiar with; and (C) some reference to published academic work on this topic.
If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in all components.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for application
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2).
Once you have applied, you’ll be asked to work on the following assignment: "Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages must take account of the learners' educational context." In no more than 1,500 words, discuss the statement above with reference to (A) current approaches to English language teaching; (B) an educational context that you are familiar with; and (C) some reference to published academic work on this topic.
If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in all components.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for application
More information
University preparation courses
Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.
To find out more, visit University preparation courses.
What our students say
Victor Ayala Millan
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages MA - 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed my experience at the University. My lecturers were always very supportive and knowledgeable in their field. Also, the campus provides a fantastic location in central London with a truly multicultural vibe. A great mix of local and international students and teaching staff.
Maria Antolini Lemos
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages MA - 2019
I enjoyed the course and benefited highly from the debates in class. Having to write essays for each class is a process that develops your researching skills and helps you to shape a carefully considered position regarding the topics you study by analysing and comparing different views. The experience altogether has been a transformational one, which further evolved my communication, problem-solving and critical thinking skills.
Thao Nguyen
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages MA - 2023
I love the TESOL MA because it offers me a deeper understanding of teaching English as a second language. The coursework is comprehensive and covers all aspects of the field, from language acquisition theory to practical teaching methods. The faculty is also very experienced and passionate about teaching, making for a stimulating learning environment.
I have enjoyed the course so much that I have written a blog article about my experience.
Learn new skills
Volunteer and gain new skills
We offer a number of different volunteering opportunities for you to learn new skills, create connections, and make a difference in the community.
Develop your entrepreneurial skills
Our award-winning Westminster Enterprise Network offers industry networking events, workshops, one-to-one business advice and support for your start-up projects.
Get extra qualifications
We provide access to free online courses in Adobe and Microsoft Office applications, as well as thousands of specialist courses on LinkedIn Learning.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £4,850 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
International tuition fee: £8,750 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
Teaching and Assessment
Below you will find how learning time and assessment types are distributed on this course. The graphs below give an indication of what you can expect through approximate percentages, taken either from the experience of previous cohorts, or based on the standard module diet where historic course data is unavailable. Changes to the division of learning time and assessment may be made in response to feedback and in accordance with our terms and conditions.
How you’ll be taught
Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into two broad categories:
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Data from the academic year 2023/24
Research groups
Our research achieves real-world impact and we are proud to claim a rich and diverse profile of high-quality research and knowledge exchange in a wide range of disciplines.
Find out more about our research groups related to this course:
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support — workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors — support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team — provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities — volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
Our Regent Campus is composed of three sites, situated on and around Regent Street – one of the most famous and vibrant streets in London.
Our Humanities subjects are based at 309 Regent Street, which includes recently refurbished social spaces, gym facilities and our Regent Street Cinema.
For more details, visit our locations page.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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