Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Graduates of the Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) will have advanced knowledge of the theories, principles and methods for teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) in Australia and internationally.

Advance your career with expert training in English language education

The Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is designed for those looking to build a rewarding career in teaching English to non-native speakers. With a solid mix of academic knowledge and practical teaching skills, this program prepares you to make a real impact in the world of language education.

Highlights of studying the Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

• Prepare to teach English as a second language in diverse settings and contexts, with a strong focus on the Asia-Pacific region.
• Build an intercultural and global perspective that enhances your teaching approach.
• Develop the skills to analyse how second and foreign languages are learned, giving you deeper insights into your students' needs.
• Enjoy the flexibility of online courses, making it easier to balance your studies with your personal and professional life.
• Explore a range of career opportunities, with the ability to use your knowledge and skills globally.

Please note that this program does not lead to teacher registration with the Queensland College of Teachers.

Recommended study pattern

As a guide, core subjects in this degree can include: 

• Language awareness for second language teachers
• Understanding the Language Learner
• Second Language Teaching in Practice (Internship)
• Second Language Curriculum Development 

As part of your application, you’ll be guided through how to get the right degree structure in place for you.

Award requirements

For the award of Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (MTESOL), you must successfully Complete 120 credit points for either of the following:

• 120 credit points from Pathway 1 - 1 year duration (80CP of study and 40CP for prior learning), or
• 120 credit points from Pathway 2 - 1.5 years duration (120CP of study)

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation. You will not pay any fees for using our services.

Indicative total fee $7,200

The amounts shown here are indicative for an Australian citizen studying full-time, which is typically 8 subjects per year.

Fees may vary depending on:

• the subjects you choose
• credit from previous work experience
• your eligibility for government funding loans or subsidies such as HECS-HELP or a Commonwealth supported place.

To learn more, go to Fees or contact a student advisor.

With a network of campuses spanning three cities in South East Queensland, Griffith University is committed to progressive multidisciplinary teaching and research and a valuable online provider with Open Universities Australia. Already attracting students from over one hundred countries, Griffith's dedication to academic excellence is available across Australia through OUA.

Learn more about Griffith University.

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QS World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

18

Times Higher Education World University Ranking 2025, within Australia:

21

You can complete this program in 1 year or 1.5 years depending on your prior study and work experience

To be eligible for this program you must meet one of the following criteria:

1 year duration (80CP):

• A recognised Bachelor degree (or higher) in a related discipline and two years relevant work experience.
• A 3016 - Graduate Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages.

1.5 year duration (120CP):

• A recognised Bachelor degree (or higher).

Related discipline includes teaching or teaching English.

Relevant work experience includes paid English language teaching role.

English language requirements apply to International applicants and other applicants whose previous study was undertaken in a language other than English. The minimum English language requirements for such applicants for entry to this program are as follows:

• A minimum overall band score of 6.5 on IELTS (Academic) with no sub-score of less than 6.0
• OR a minimum score of 575 on TOEFL
• OR an internet-based (iBT) TOEFL score of 79 (no sub-score less than 19)
• OR no score less than 3+ in each skill of the ISLPR (conducted by ISLPR Language Services only)
• OR a minimum overall score of 176 (no score less than 169) on C1 Advanced (formerly Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English) or C2 Proficiency (formerly Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English)
• OR an overall score of 58 in the Pearson Test of English (Academic) with no score less than 50.

English test results must be no more than two years old.

International students who successfully complete the Direct Entry Program (DEP) will satisfy the English Language requirements for this Griffith degree.

The Direct Entry Program (DEP) is not available for Domestic students.

Applicants should refer to the English language requirements section of the following University policy for exceptions to these overall requirements.

If you do not meet the University's specified English language requirements, you may wish to contact the Griffith English Language Institute to increase your eligibility for entering a Griffith University program. This Institute offers a number of English language and other courses at both its Brisbane and Gold Coast branches.

Reduce the time it takes to finish your degree. You can apply to Griffith to recognise your prior learning, including:

• Formal learning through courses completed at uni and TAFE.
• Informal learning through workplace experience or volunteer training.
• Non-formal learning through social experiences and hobbies.