The University of North Carolina at Greensboro

Programme overview

This programme prepares students to teach English to speakers of other languages through coursework that links theory and practice. Emphasis is placed on classroom methodology, language acquisition, assessment, and supervised practicum experiences so graduates can design instruction that supports multilingual learners.

What you'll study

Course content typically covers:

• Foundations of TESOL: principles of second-language acquisition and sociolinguistic contexts for language learning.
• Methodology and materials: lesson planning, communicative approaches, differentiated instruction for diverse classrooms.
• Language analysis: grammar and pronunciation pedagogy tailored for learners of English.
• Assessment and evaluation: formative and summative assessment strategies, progress monitoring, and use of assessment data to inform instruction.
• Practicum/clinical experience: supervised teaching placements where students apply methods with English learners and receive feedback.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a personal statement, and references; some applicants must meet prerequisites in undergraduate coursework or background in education or linguistics. Candidates seeking state teacher licensure should verify additional requirements such as GPA minimums, background checks, and clinical hours with the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates commonly work as ESL/TESOL teachers in K–12 schools, adult and community education programs, language schools, and international schools. Other pathways include roles as curriculum developers, language assessment specialists, program coordinators for multilingual services, and further study in applied linguistics or education leadership.

Scholarships & funding angle (general)

Funding options may include departmental scholarships, teaching assistantships, institutional graduate aid, and external fellowships or grants for language education. Prospective students should also explore federal student aid, employer tuition benefits, and local education agency sponsorships when planning financing.