Overview
Reach the world one student at a time with our top-ranked ESL program
In today’s global economy, English is one of the three most commonly spoken languages worldwide. We live in an era where the need for clear and quick correspondence across all modes of communication is vital. As a result, the demand for teachers who can engage non-English speaking students in the classroom is at an all-time high—which means quality English language learning programs are in top demand.
English as a second language (ESL) teachers help non-English speaking students learn to read, write and speak in English. Teaching ESL enables you to give learners the opportunity to fully engage in professional, academic and civic opportunities, allowing individuals to flourish in their communities.
Trevecca offers a highly respected Master of Education in English as a Second Language degree (M.Ed.) approved by both the Tennessee Department of Education and the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education. The comprehensive, 100 percent online program is designed to provide the requirements needed to currently licensed teachers who desire to teach ESL. We also offer an endorsement option for those who already hold a master’s degree and would like to become certified to teach ESL. Our curriculum equips teachers to develop expertise in language acquisition, appropriate instructional models, curriculum design, culture, assessment, technology and linguistics. Additional program highlights include:
- In 2019, the educational service group OnlineMasters.com selected Trevecca’s ESL degree as one of the top 50 online English language learning programs in the country. “I attribute this to the fact we are in sync with our students and the landscape of current ESL educational best practices,” says Program Director Dr. Penney Carden. “We consistently listen to student feedback and make revisions when needed to make the overall learning experience the best it can possibly be.”
- Our faculty includes professors who hold specialized certifications in the field as well as statewide ESL educator awards.
- Since 2016, Trevecca ESL students have achieved a 100 percent pass rate on the ESL Praxis exam.
- Enrollment in the ESL program includes international students from countries such as Holland, China and Canada, allowing for robust and diverse online class discussions.
Here's what to expect:
Flexibility. The program exists to provide teachers and working adults with the opportunity to earn a master’s degree in a schedule and format particularly designed to meet their needs. You’ll complete your degree fully online. And when we say fully online, we mean it! Our program is structured so that you never have to step foot on campus--not even once! No need to show up for tests, weekend requirements or summer intensives. Everything you need is one click away. Books and supplies are delivered to your front door. Study when it’s convenient for you--an hour in the morning over coffee, during your lunch break or after your kids’ bedtime.
Support. Trevecca's cohort model of learning is one of the reasons the school has become the fastest growing university in Middle Tennessee. It’s a highly successful online experience that allows students from various backgrounds and locations to succeed. You begin and complete your degree alongside a group of other online classmates working toward similar goals. Your peers provide the feedback and encouragement needed so you can get the most out of your studies. You won’t feel like you’re on an island. Constant email exchanges and online discussion posts among your group ensure you’ll get the support you need.
Results. Complete your degree in three or four semesters and gain the preparation you need to pass the ESL Praxis exam. You’ll be qualified to teach English as a second language in Pre K-12 settings in either public or private schools. Other career opportunities could include the option to work as an ESL specialist for corporations or organizations who hire internationally and need language training assistance. Graduates also can explore the possibility of teaching ESL overseas or in church or civic organizations that offer classes to immigrants.
Faculty
General Resources
News
Core Classes
Teaching the Exceptional Learner
TMA 6680
Designed to provide an overview and an awareness of issues and trends related to special education that will assist regular education teachers in meeting the needs of all students in their classrooms, especially those who are at-risk or may have disabilities. General characteristics and the educational impact of various disabilities across age and severity will be explored. Information concerning educational services and current research about students with disabilities will be discussed. Students will actually explore a variety of methods, strategies, and tools that will help them acquire the instructional skills to identify, create interventions, participate in the special education process and make classroom accommodations and/or modifications for students that may have disabilities.
This course examines public school law and educational policy as they affect teachers' rights and legal responsibilities to students and their families. Content will include an examination of students' legal rights and ethical parameters of teaching and common sense practices to direct/inform the teacher. Content to build cultural competency including but not limited to English learners, race and ethnicity, and gender will be studied and applied. Applicable state, federal, and case law affecting schools is reviewed from organizational, historical, and professional dimensions.
Course Hours: 3
Psychological Foundations of Learning
TMA 5510
Addresses developmental stages within the context of major learning theories. The psychology of learning includes motivation, humor, strategic learning, anchored instruction, mediated learning, metacognition, brain research, classroom organization, management, climate, and communication for effective teaching
Course Hours: 3
Language Acquisition and Learning
ESL 6000
Explores the accepted theories of language learning and acquisition. The distinction is made between learning and acquisition as it relates to efficient language application and use. Distinctions are also made between communicative language learning and academic language learning and the instructional supports required for each. This is an applied theory course with significant reading and which provides a theoretical framework for the remainder of the coursework in this major. Understanding how language is learned and acquired is fundamental to language instruction. The importance of socialization in the target language with transitional supports in the mother tongue is also explored.
Course Hours: 3
Trends, Models, and Methods in Instruction
ESL 6010
Examines the currently used models of ESL instruction from a variety of school boards and regions. These models are examined in light of language learning theory. Models of integration, inclusion, and other models of differentiated instruction are examined and students are expected to not only understand the differences but to also understand the implications for effective language learning.
Cross listed as EDU 2010
Course Hours: 3
Authentic Language Curriculum Design
ESL 6020
Considers the principles of curriculum design as they relate to language learning within an authentic learning environment. Rather than creating inaccurate learning environments with controlled language input, this course explores the efficiency of maximizing comprehensible input in order to produce comprehensible output. Contextualization of language application and use are central to this course and candidates will be expected to design actual curriculum units within an authentic language context. Integrated approaches to grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and writing are examined and used by candidates to design their own authentic language course.
Course Hours: 3
Culture
ESL 6030
Focuses on the relationship between culture and language, both oral and written, and examines the importance of identifying key cultural traits of ESL students' home culture for instructional scaffolding. Affirmation of home culture as well as multicultural issues such as integration, acculturation, and assimilation are examined as they pertain to ESL teaching and learning. This is a research course.
Course Hours: 3
Methods of Assessment and Evaluation for ESL
ESL 6040
Language proficiency assessment for placing is not the same as evaluation of language demonstration and use. This course examines the differences between the two and combines methods with outcomes evaluation. Assessment for "placement" is compared with evaluation of outcomes. Placement is also examined in light of authentic language learning within a school setting. Candidates are expected to understand the various methods as well as produce samples of assessment and evaluation strategies.
Course Hours: 3
Technology and Language Learning
ESL 6050
Examines the importance of instructional scaffolding for ESL students and looks at how new technology can facilitate this approach. Candidates experience various methods using new technology such as the Internet for instruction and various forms of distance education for language learners. This course provides access to new software, online resources, and synchronous and asynchronous methods in technology mediation. Language practice through mixed media input is demonstrated as well as the role of rote practice for pronunciation.
Course Hours: 3
Linguistics for Teachers of English Secondary Language
ESL 6055
A descriptive linguistics course which focuses on understanding phonologic, syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic aspects of language as they apply to an understanding of any ESL student's native language. Language transfer issues for ESL students are examined in both the oral and written domains to provide appropriate instructional scaffolding. The course also considers the significance of sociolinguistic and psycholinguistic aspects of language learning. This is a research course.
Course Hours: 3
E-Portfolio
ESL 6600
The e-portfolio, a web-based electronic tool provided to candidates at the beginning of the program, is considered a work in progress throughout the graduate program. This web-based electronic tool provides the candidate powerful resources for reflecting, synthesizing, and evaluating course experiences during the duration of the program. It includes settings for both Pre-K - 5 and grades 6-12. Candidates are provided a course syllabus and framework for completing the e-portfolio. This e-portfolio will be presented during the final semester of the program and is required for graduation.
Course Hours: 2
ESL Field Experience
ESL 6060
Candidates will complete at least 30 clock hours in ESL classrooms. The field experience will include both PreK-6 and 7-12 settings. Candidates will observe, assist, tutor, teach, and apply what they have learned from relevant courses. Appropriately supervised teaching experience of at least one semester in a PreK-12 ESL classroom may be substituted for the field experience.
Course Hours: 1
Program Details
Total Credit Hours
Master’s degree: 30 hours
Endorsement only: 13 hours
Program Length
Master’s degree: 16 months
Endorsement only: 3-6 months
Mode
100 percent online
Additional Information
The English as a second language program is geared toward professionals who desire to become credentialed to teach in either a Pre K-12 setting or in a variety of other instructional environments. The coursework is designed to serve a practical purpose. Assignments completed, for example, can be used in the classroom. A balanced blend of theory and application is one of the reasons our curriculum is so attractive to adult learners. Instructors are quick to answer inquiries and engage with students to help them succeed. The curriculum includes teaching on topics such as trends, models and methods in instruction, the impact of culture on language acquisition and technology as it relates to language learning.
A field experience also is included as part of the degree requirement. Students will complete at least 30 hours in ESL classrooms. The field experience will include both Pre K-5 and 6-12 grade settings. Candidates will observe, assist, tutor, teach and apply what they have learned from relevant courses. Appropriately supervised teaching experience of at least one semester in a Pre K-12 ESL classroom may be substituted for the field experience.
Our faculty are experts in the field. Those who teach linguistics, for example, are speech pathologists. Others who teach content are currently working in the ESL field. Faculty members who teach coursework on the impact of culture have experiences working with diverse communities. Three faculty members currently serve with the Tennessee TESOL organization and as a result keep Trevecca on the cutting edge of what is happening in ESL instructional circles.
The entire ESL experience is highly interactive and relevant. “When I interview students at the end of the program I frequently ask what worked well for them throughout their classes,” remarks Program Director Dr. Penney Carden. “Two things are always mentioned--instructors who are engaged and prompt in answering questions, and practical assignments that can be used in the students’ own classrooms.”
ESL Endorsement
For teachers who are not yet interested in obtaining the master’s degree, Trevecca offers an endorsement in ESL. To add an endorsement in English as a Second Language to an existing teaching license, thirteen hours of coursework and a passing score on the ESL Praxis exam are required. Our curriculum equips teachers to develop expertise in language acquisition, appropriate instructional models, curriculum design, culture, assessment, technology and linguistics.
All ESL endorsement courses are offered in an online format. The endorsement can be completed in one summer by taking two classes at a time or in two semesters (fall and spring).
Locations/Modes
Online
We understand life is busy and you may not have time to attend class on campus. That's why we created Trevecca Online. Whether you are a working adult, a stay-at-home parent, or simply live outside of Nashville, we make it easy to earn your degree while focusing on one class at a time, anytime—24/7.
Classes are taught online through our learning management system, Blackboard. Additionally, books and materials are delivered to your front door. And when we say the degree is entirely online, we mean it. With the way our program is structured, you never have to step foot on campus--not even once! No need to show up for tests, weekend requirements or summer intensives. Everything you need is one click away. Study when it’s convenient for you—an hour in the morning over coffee, during your lunch break or after your kids’ bedtime. Classes are asynchronous, meaning there’s no specific time you must be online. Plus, you’ll only take one course at a time.
You’ll also be part of an online cohort, where students begin and complete their degree alongside a group of other online peers working toward the same goals. Constant email exchanges and online discussion posts among your group ensure you won’t feel like you’re on an island. Our highly successful cohort model helps ensure you’ll get the support you need!
You can expect the same level of quality and rigor with our online degree programs that Trevecca has provided students in the classroom since 1901. The digital advancements we’ve made in recent years--including the ease of navigating our online platforms and the ability of our students to seamlessly engage electronically with our incredible faculty--have helped make us the fastest growing university in Middle Tennessee.
Outcomes/Careers
Our M.Ed. degree equips students with the skills needed to teach English as a second language in a variety of settings. The program prepares graduates to successfully complete the ESL Praxis exam. Since 2016, 100 percent of our students have passed this test. The degree positions graduates for professional opportunities in these types of roles:
- Pre K-12 ESL teacher in a public or private school (so long as you already hold a teaching license)
- ESL specialist for a corporation or organization that hires internationally and needs language-training assistance for its employees
- Overseas ESL instructor
- ESL instructor for churches or civic organizations that offer classes to immigrants
Financial Aid & Costs
Worried about the future? We’ve got you covered!
At Trevecca, we understand we’re in unprecedented times. We believe you should be free to follow your dreams without fear. If you’re unable to complete a course due to COVID-19, we’ll refund the course cost to you. Full details can be found here.
How much will it cost?
Master's Degree
| Tuition | Credit Hours | Program Length | Tuition Costs |
| $435/credit hour | 30 | 16 months | $13,050* |
Endorsement Only
| Tuition | Credit Hours | Program Length | Tuition Costs |
| $435/credit hour | 13 | 3 months in summer/6 months in fall and spring | $5,655* |
*$50 fee assessed per course. Books are not included.
How am I going to pay for it?
- Federal loans are available to all eligible students seeking to earn a graduate degree who complete a FAFSA.
- Trevecca partners with organizations and corporations to accept employer tuition reimbursement opportunities.
- Monthly payments through Trevecca make fulfilling tuition requirements more manageable.
- Trevecca also accepts military benefits such as Yellow Ribbon and GI Bills.
How do I qualify?
- Fill out your FAFSA. Based on your income, you will know how much federal financial aid you are eligible to receive.
- Talk to your employer about tuition reimbursement opportunities.
- For military benefits, contact the Academic Records Office at 615-248-1268.
Admissions
Admissions Requirements
- Have earned a bachelor's degree from an institution accredited by a CHEA-recognized regional accrediting agency or the Association for Biblical Higher Education. Students who do not meet these degree requirements may be conditionally accepted in accordance with the Conditional Admission Policy
Getting Started
- Complete the online application (it's free!).
Need help applying? Read the step-by-step instructions here! - Fill out FAFSA to be considered for financial aid
- Request a copy of your official transcript from your undergraduate institution
- Provide photocopy of government-issued identification (e.g., driver's license, state ID, military ID, passport). This requirement ensures that Trevecca complies with the U.S. Department of Education expectations for student verification. (This is only required for students enrolled in an online program.)
Submit a copy of your teaching license (if applicable)
Submit proof of fingerprinting and complete a successful background check
Complete a successful interview with the program coordinator
Submit a writing sample.
Endorsement Only
- Complete all of the above, with the exception of a FAFSA application and a writing sample
Questions?
Fill out the form to be connected with your personal enrollment counselor. We’re here to help!
FAQs
Master's Degree
Will this degree lead to an ESL endorsement?
Must I have a teaching license to enroll?
Does the ESL master’s program offer an ESL endorsement only option without pursuing the degree?
How many transfer credits will the ESL master’s program accept?
Does my teaching license have to be from Tennessee to be accepted into the ESL master’s program?
Does my previous degree have to be in education to be qualified for this program?
Does the ESL master’s program require passing Praxis exams?
What is the passing score on the ESL Praxis test?
Are there any extra fees?
Is federal financial aid available for the master’s program?
Is a field experience required?
Can I complete the field experience observation hours prior to taking the class?
How long does it take to earn the degree?
How often will I need to come to campus?
Endorsement Only
How does the endorsement process work?
Will the ESL endorsement program lead to licensure?
Are transfer credits accepted into the ESL endorsement program?
Do I have to obtain a teaching license to be qualified for the ESL endorsement program?
Does my teaching license have to be from Tennessee to be qualified for ESL endorsement program?
Does my previous degree have to be in education to be qualified for the ESL endorsement program?
How many classes will I take at one time?
What is the maximum amount of hours I can take at once?
What if I formerly worked as a teacher but I have been out of the field for a certain amount of time?
Does the ESL endorsement program require passing a PRAXIS exam?
What is the passing score on the ESL Praxis test?
Are there any extra fees?
Is federal financial aid available for the endorsement?
Can I begin the endorsement and then switch over to the master’s program at a later date?
Can I complete the field experience observation hours prior to taking the class?
Overview
Increase your influence
As today's classrooms become increasingly diverse, the number of students learning English as a second language continues to rise. These students deserve teachers who are dedicated to providing an exceptional education through proven, innovative teaching methods. With an emphasis on practical means of improving student learning, Trevecca's Master of Education in English Second Language (PreK-12) will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to be an effective educator in today's shifting culture.
Completion of this program should enable graduates to:
- Demonstrate knowledge and skills in language acquisition
- Understand legal and ethical issues
- Use instructional models based on current research
- Design and implement curriculum for individuals who are learning English as an addition language
- Integrate technology to assist student learning
Click here to text with an enrollment counselor
Core Classes
Teaching the Exceptional Learner
TMA 6680
Designed to provide an overview and an awareness of issues and trends related to special education that will assist regular education teachers in meeting the needs of all students in their classrooms, especially those who are at-risk or may have disabilities. General characteristics and the educational impact of various disabilities across age and severity will be explored. Information concerning educational services and current research about students with disabilities will be discussed. Students will actually explore a variety of methods, strategies, and tools that will help them acquire the instructional skills to identify, create interventions, participate in the special education process and make classroom accommodations and/or modifications for students that may have disabilities.
This course examines public school law and educational policy as they affect teachers' rights and legal responsibilities to students and their families. Content will include an examination of students' legal rights and ethical parameters of teaching and common sense practices to direct/inform the teacher. Content to build cultural competency including but not limited to English learners, race and ethnicity, and gender will be studied and applied. Applicable state, federal, and case law affecting schools is reviewed from organizational, historical, and professional dimensions.
Course Hours: 3
Psychological Foundations of Learning
TMA 5510
Addresses developmental stages within the context of major learning theories. The psychology of learning includes motivation, humor, strategic learning, anchored instruction, mediated learning, metacognition, brain research, classroom organization, management, climate, and communication for effective teaching.
Course Hours: 3
Language Acquisition and Learning
ESL-6000
Explores the accepted theories of language learning and acquisition. The distinction is made between learning and acquisition as it relates to efficient language application and use. Distinctions are also made between communicative language learning and academic language learning and the instructional supports required for each. This is an applied theory course with significant reading and which provides a theoretical framework for the remainder of the coursework in this major. Understanding how language is learned and acquired is fundamental to language instruction. The importance of socialization in the target language with transitional supports in the mother tongue is also explored.
Course Hours: 3
Trends, Models, and Methods in Instruction
ESL 6010
Examines the currently used models of ESL instruction from a variety of school boards and regions. These models are examined in light of language learning theory. Models of integration, inclusion, and other models of differentiated instruction are examined and students are expected to not only understand the differences but to also understand the implications for effective language learning.
Cross listed as EDU 2010
Course Hours: 3
Authentic Language Curriculum Design
ESL 6020
Considers the principles of curriculum design as they relate to language learning within an authentic learning environment. Rather than creating inaccurate learning environments with controlled language input, this course explores the efficiency of maximizing comprehensible input in order to produce comprehensible output. Contextualization of language application and use are central to this course and candidates will be expected to design actual curriculum units within an authentic language context. Integrated approaches to grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and writing are examined and used by candidates to design their own authentic language course.
Course Hours: 3
Culture
ESL 6030
Focuses on the relationship between culture and language, both oral and written, and examines the importance of identifying key cultural traits of ESL students' home culture for instructional scaffolding. Affirmation of home culture as well as multicultural issues such as integration, acculturation, and assimilation are examined as they pertain to ESL teaching and learning. This is a research course.
Course Hours: 3
Methods of Assessment and Evaluation for ESL
ESL 6040
Language proficiency assessment for placing is not the same as evaluation of language demonstration and use. This course examines the differences between the two and combines methods with outcomes evaluation. Assessment for "placement" is compared with evaluation of outcomes. Placement is also examined in light of authentic language learning within a school setting. Candidates are expected to understand the various methods as well as produce samples of assessment and evaluation strategies.
Course Hours: 3
Technology and Language Learning
ESL 6050
Examines the importance of instructional scaffolding for ESL students and looks at how new technology can facilitate this approach. Candidates experience various methods using new technology such as the Internet for instruction and various forms of distance education for language learners. This course provides access to new software, online resources, and synchronous and asynchronous methods in technology mediation. Language practice through mixed media input is demonstrated as well as the role of rote practice for pronunciation.
Course Hours: 3
Linguistics for Teachers of English Secondary Language
ESL 6055
A descriptive linguistics course which focuses on understanding phonologic, syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic aspects of language as they apply to an understanding of any ESL student's native language. Language transfer issues for ESL students are examined in both the oral and written domains to provide appropriate instructional scaffolding. The course also considers the significance of sociolinguistic and psycholinguistic aspects of language learning. This is a research course.
Course Hours: 3
E-Portfolio
ESL 6600
The e-portfolio, a web-based electronic tool provided to candidates at the beginning of the program, is considered a work in progress throughout the graduate program. This web-based electronic tool provides the candidate powerful resources for reflecting, synthesizing, and evaluating course experiences during the duration of the program. It includes settings for both Pre-K - 5 and grades 6-12. Candidates are provided a course syllabus and framework for completing the e-portfolio. This e-portfolio will be presented during the final semester of the program and is required for graduation.
Course Hours: 0
ESL Field Experience
ESL 6060
Candidates will complete at least 30 clock hours in ESL classrooms. The field experience will include both PreK-6 and 7-12 settings. Candidates will observe, assist, tutor, teach, and apply what they have learned from relevant courses. Appropriately supervised teaching experience of at least one semester in a PreK-12 ESL classroom may be substituted for the field experience.
Course Hours: 1
Admissions
Admissions Requirements
- Complete the online application (it's free!)
- Fill out FAFSA to be considered for financial aid
- Request a copy of official transcript from your undergraduate institution
- Complete successfuly interview with program director
More Questions?
Please contact SGCS Admissions with any further questions: sgcsadmissions@trevecca.edu or 844-TNU-GRAD.
ESL Endorsement
For individuals wishing for an add-on endorsement in English Second Language (ESL), thirteen (13) hours of coursework and a passing score on the Praxis II English to Speakers of Other Languages are required. All ESL Endorsement courses are offered in an online format. The endorsement can be completed in one Summer by taking two classes at a time or in two semesters (Fall and Spring).
Endorsement Only Admissions Process
- Submit a completed online application
- Submit one copy of official transcript. Transcripts marked "Issued to Student" are not recognized as official transcripts. Official transcript must be mailed directly from the university granting the degree.
- Submit copy of teaching license.
- Submit proof of fingerprinting and successful background check
- Complete a successful interview with the program coordinator.
Endorsement Courses
ESL 6000 Language Acquisition and Learning
ESL 6010 Trends, Models, and Methods in Instruction
ESL 6040 Methods of Assessment and Evaluation for ESL
ESL 6055 Linguistics for Teachers of English Secondary Language
ESL 6060 ESL Field Experience
Financial Aid and Costs
How am I going to pay for it?
- Federal loans and grants are available to all eligible students who complete a FAFSA
- Employer tuition reimbursement opportunties
- Monthly payments through Trevecca make fulfilling tuition requirements more manageable
- Military benefits such as Yellow Ribbon and GI Bills are accepted by Trevecca University
How do I qualify?
- Fill out your FAFSA. Based on your income, you will know how much federal financial aid you are eligible to receive.
- Talk to your employer about tuition reimbursement opportunties
- For military benefits, contact the Academic Records Office at 1.615.248.1268
How much will it cost?
| Tuition | Credit Hours | Program Length | Tuition Costs |
| $435/credit hour | 30 | 16 months | $13,050 |
Why Trevecca?
Why choose Trevecca?
Since 1901, Trevecca Nazarene University has been dedicated to bringing Nashville students an unmatched education through exceptional teaching. Now the same education is available any time, anywhere through Trevecca Online, allowing you to receive the education you want with the flexibility you need.
Trevecca's cohort model of instruction provides you with a close-knit group of fellow students who will be on the same educational journey from the first day of classes until graduation. All classwork is completed through Blackboard, an interactive and innovative online learning system that allows you to communicate quickly with fellow students and your professors.
While earning your degree with Trevecca Online, you will learn innovative and practical teaching methods that will make you both a better teacher and a better leader. Whether on campus or online, you will be surrounded and encouraged by a community of passionate professors and students who desire to help you succeed.
As an educator, you know the importance of different learning styles. With Trevecca Online, you will have the opportunity to use the learning style that works best for you while learning at your own pace. You will also have unique hands-on instructional opportunities in your local schools that will help you improve your instructional and administrative practices.
At Trevecca, we want to help you acquire the necessary skills to become the best of what you want to be. With Trevecca Online, you have the opportunity to receive an exceptional, personalized education completely online.
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