Julia Varela
Assistant Director of Enrollment, Graduate & Professional Studies
717-796-1800 Ext. 2622
Master of Education – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
Messiah University’s Master of Education with a degree track in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) will provide educators with the specialized knowledge and skill to help English learners (ELs) acquire language and learn academic content in their classrooms.
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) overview
Graduate students in the TESOL track will develop a foundational understanding of the English language, discovering linguistic items that are relevant and teachable in their content areas. They will apply this learning as they work within their own teaching contexts to create lesson plans which meet the needs of all learners, and develop skills for furthering the language development of ELs during instruction in mainstream classes.
The TESOL track is designed for those who are building on their expertise so that they can meet the needs of the increasing numbers of English learners in their classrooms. Others may not have a bachelor’s degree in education or teacher certification, but may apply this learning in other areas, such as in higher education or business.
- 33 credits
- Predominantly online coursework
- Eight-week courses with one-week summer intensive courses
- Two- to six-year completion
- Flexible start dates
- No-fee tuition
- No application fee
- Teacher
- ESL teacher
- TESOL specialist
Messiah University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Higher Education. It is the highest accrediting authority recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for degree-granting colleges and universities located in Pennsylvania, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands and several other locations internationally. Messiah’s teaching certification programs are accredited by the PA Department of Education.
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) tuition cost
No-fee tuition
Know what you are paying for with Messiah’s no-fee tuition. With our graduate programs, the cost per credit is what you pay – there are no hidden fees for labs, courses, services or technology. We put the true cost of your program upfront so that you can accurately compare and plan for your graduate education.
Deferred billing
Deferred billing is available for students with employer reimbursement. For more information contact Student Financial Services at gradfinancialserv@messiah.edu.
2025-2026
No-fee tuition per graduate credit hour: $800
Tuition cost for the entire program at the 2025-2026 rate: $26,400 (33 credits)
Graduate students are eligible to apply for federal financial aid.
Next steps for admissions
Applying for admission to a graduate program at Messiah University is the first step to making your personal and professional goals a reality.
- The academic distinction of a nationally ranked, accredited Christian university.
- A flexible, affordable online program designed with working professionals in mind—Messiah offers track options that are fully online and programs that feature a combination of online and campus courses.
- Time frames for program completion that range from two to six years—select the one that’s right for you.
- All courses taught by Messiah’s faculty—experienced trained educators and nationally recognized scholars who take time to mentor you in your education, faith and career.
- Small class sizes ensure personalized attention and meaningful interaction with professors and fellow students.
- Deferred payment option available—if your employer reimburses for Act 48 or other graduate course completions. All certificates, certifications and degrees are eligible for federal financial aid.
- Courses and field experience designed to be instantly applicable to your everyday work setting.
- Rolling admission—Messiah accepts graduate program applicants year-round allowing you to enter the program at multiple points throughout the year.