The MA in Teaching English as a Second Language/ Applied Linguistics is a two-year advanced degree covering teaching methods and research in English language teaching
Before you apply for admission to the program read the detailed information starting on page 46 of the English Department Graduate Program of Study Manual.
The program of study (POS) consists of four types of requirements:
language requirement must be met through one of the following ways:
required courses that teach the knowledge and skills that are fundamental to all work in TESL/applied linguistics; and
electives that can be chosen from a particular area of specialization to strengthen students understanding of one area (computer-assisted language learning, English for specific purposes, language assessment, literacy, or literature).
The computer-assisted language learning (CALL) specialization prepares students to work as the CALL specialist in an ESL/EFL program, selecting and coordinating software resources, constructing computer-based language learning activities, and conducting staff development workshops on CALL.
The language assessment specialization prepares students to work as a test developer for a testing company or an assessment specialist for a language program.
The English for specific purposes (ESP) specialization prepares students to work in both academic and workplace settings where instruction needs to focus on a particular type (or register) of English. Students in this area would acquire the skills to assess context-specific language needs and to develop appropriate materials for learning and assessment.
The literacy specialization emphasizes the study of written language skills to teach in the public schools, community colleges, or abroad. A student following this program can also complete requirements for ESL certification for the state of Iowa and specialize in the teaching of reading and writing skills. Other opportunities include composition theory and practice, literary studies, and studying the application of reading theory to elementary or secondary public schools.
The literature specialization allows students with a background in English to strengthen the depth of their knowledge of literature as it relates to the teaching of ESL, thus preparing them to teach ESL through literature.
Additional Specializations planned to be offered in Fall 2015 (subject to approval)
The specialization in teaching English to L1 Spanish learners focuses on the linguistic and cultural differences encountered when teaching learners in Spanish speaking areas of the world.
The specialization in corpus and computational linguistics is aimed at students interested in the study of language using large databases of natural language use, and in writing programs for doing so.
In addition to particular job-related advantages, the specializations provide a strong foundation for students wishing to continue for a Ph.D. By providing an in-depth foundation in one area beyond the basics of TESL/applied linguistics including an M.A. thesis, the specializations prepare students to pursue their interests in teaching and research. Before you apply for admission to the program read the detailed information starting on page 46 of the English Department Graduate Program of Study Manual.
(30 credits minimum)
CORE REQUIREMENTS = 18 CREDITS
Linguistic Analysis and Interpretation
ELECTIVE AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION = 9 CREDITS
Computer-Assisted Language Learning (CALL)
Suggested courses for the Literacy specialization inside the English Department include:
Suggested courses for the Literacy specialization outside the English Department include
Literature in ESL
(no declared area of specialization)
INDEPENDENT RESEARCH= 3 CREDITS (only 3 credits count towards the degree)
M.A. applicants must have completed a Bachelor's degree, or its equivalent, prior to their first semester in the program. Minimum TOEFL scores for M.A. applicants: 100 (IBT)/ 600 (PBT)/7.0 IELTS
Application Deadline: January 5 (summer and fall entry)
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