Guide Language Learners
Turn your passion for language, culture, and helping others into a rewarding career. A master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL prepares you to teach English and other languages to adults, adolescents, and children in public and private settings. Earn a portion of your TESOL masters online or fully in person to teach in international K–12 schools, foreign language schools, and postsecondary institutions.
More than a master’s in teaching English as a second language, our EdM in TESOL and Applied Linguistics gives you insights into second language acquisition no matter the language—and provides a grounding in applied linguistics research for future doctoral study.
Program Pathways
K–12 Settings
Unlike some master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL programs or master’s in teaching English as a second language programs, in our EdM in TESOL & Applied Linguistics you’ll learn how to develop lesson and unit plans that provide affirming classroom experiences for all language learners. Looking for a licensure program? See the EdM in TESOL Multilingual Learner Education.
Postsecondary Education
Many students who enroll in the program are interested in teaching English in college, community, and other programs in the United States and abroad. When you earn your master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL, you’ll be prepared to teach adolescents and adults at all levels—more so than in a master’s in teaching English as a second language program.
Path to Doctoral Study
The master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL program also places emphasis on research skills. As a result, many graduates publish extensively and earn a PhD in the field of Second Language Studies and Language Education.
Meaningful Field Experience
All students in the master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL will complete a semester of supervised practicum in a field setting. Your field experience will match your interests and the level(s) you are interested in teaching.
The moment I arrived at BU, I knew I had found my place. I bloomed — in my communication, confidence, and academic voice. BU didn’t just educate me, it nurtured me.
Career Outcomes for the EdM in TESOL & Applied Linguistics
Gain the experience and confidence to build a rewarding career around language, culture, and teaching. Whether you complete your coursework in person or opt to do a portion of your TESOL master’s online, you will be able to:
- Connect knowledge of content, teaching practices, student learning, and curriculum
- Develop lesson and unit plans that provide affirming classroom experiences for all language learners
- Interpret research in TESOL and Applied Linguistics and apply it to the design of teaching materials
- Address issues of access, equity, and diversity when teaching all students second languages
Alumni of TESOL & Applied Linguistics
Considering master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL programs, master’s in teaching English as a second language programs, and TESOL masters online programs? Look at student outcomes. Graduates of Boston University’s EdM in TESOL & Applied Linguistics are successful in a variety of professional roles — from front-facing roles in classrooms around the world to instructional design teams behind the scenes.
- English as a Second Language (ESL) and English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teacher
- Teacher of languages other than English
- Test preparation instructor (TOEFL, IELTS, etc)
- Curriculum developer/designer
- Instructional designer
- Program director/coordinator
- Assessment/evaluation specialist
Featured Faculty
The faculty for BU Wheelock’s master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL are dedicated to methods that capitalize on students’ strengths. Faculty use research-based practices for language instruction and promote an enthusiasm for language and how it is acquired. The instructors have varied language interests, backgrounds, and research areas, and are all committed to your success.
Dr. Kathy MinHye Kim specializes in understanding how adult learners encode and retain second language (L2) knowledge. She examines how L2 learners develop implicit and explicit knowledge and factors that mediate their development, such as situational features (e.g., input modality), sleep conditions, and individual differences in cognitive (e.g., intelligence, working memory capacity) and biographical (e.g., education level and reading experiences) variables.
Coursework for the EdM in TESOL & Applied Linguistics
The master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL program offers required courses in second language acquisition and linguistic theory, and electives like intercultural communication and applied phonology. TESOL master’s online courses are also available for added flexibility.
Example courses in the master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL include:
- Applied Linguistics: Language and Linguistics Survey
- Foundations of TESOL Pedagogy
- Intercultural Communication
- Inclusive Principles and Practices in World Language Education
Scholarships Available
Don’t let funding keep you from pursuing a master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL, master’s in teaching English as a second language, or TESOL master’s online. Our EdM in TESOL & Applied Linguistics is within your reach! At Boston University, merit-based scholarships are available to graduate students.
Admissions & Dates
Fall 2025 Semester
Jan 15, 2025
Deadline to Receive Priority Scholarship Consideration
Fall 2025 Semester
Aug 1, 2025
Application Closes
Still wondering which master’s in applied linguistics and TESOL, master’s in teaching English as a second language, or TESOL master’s online might be the best fit for you? Connect with BU Wheelock to learn more about the EdM in TESOL and Applied Linguistics. Learn about application requirements and deadlines, sign up for an information session, or start your application today.