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Online M.Ed. Applied Learning and Instruction TESOL Education

Increase Your Impact on English Learners and Multilingual Students

Online

2 Years

36 Credit Hours

$362 per Credit*

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Why Should I Choose the Online TESOL Concentration?

  • Apply By: 05/21/26
  • Start Class: 06/04/26 

This master’s in TESOL online program develops your ability to empower English as a Second Language (ESL) students to thrive in and out of the classroom. You will learn to craft lessons differentiated to individual students’ English proficiency levels and unique language learning needs through a mix of high-level pedagogical theory. A focus on practical strategies and an in-person practicum experience complement your academic experience.

Designed for motivated educators like you, this online program features asynchronous courses that empower you to study when it makes sense for your schedule. Plus, it’s aligned with South Carolina’s related add-on certification, so you can optimize your resume and pursue your ideal ESL educator role.

Concentration Details

  • No application fee
  • Graduate faster with 8-week courses
  • Curriculum approved by local school leaders
  • Convenient online learning that’s accessible 24/7
  • Aligned with South Carolina’s add-on certification
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Learn From Curriculum Supported by South Carolina School Leaders

From linguistics to literacy instruction, USC Upstate’s master of TESOL online curriculum provides specialized knowledge of English language learners educational needs. You will practice applying your expanded expertise in a supportive setting with an in-person practicum, which you may be able to complete at your current workplace.

At USC Upstate, our faculty want you to succeed — that’s why they act as both instructors and mentors throughout your academic journey. If you need additional support, you can also contact the Student Success Center and access their resources, including free tutoring and supplemental instruction.

TESOL Education Required Courses

An overview of language and linguistics and their relationship to teaching and learning. Attention will be given to phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics as they relate to linguistic theory; to issues of language use; to questions of language in the social context, particularly in the K-12 classroom; and to issues of language acquisition and language learning.
Principles and strategies for developing and implementing effective instruction for K-12 second language learners. Focus is given on a variety of philosophies and models for teaching English to second language learners, variables affecting the learning of English by second language learners, and learning strategy research.
Theories of first and second language acquisition and literacy acquisition. Attention is given to strategies and techniques for guiding second language learners through the reading and writing process and for assessing progress in literacy acquisition.
Educational assessment of academic achievement K-12 second language learners. Content focuses on authentic assessment within the classroom, and includes psychometric statistics and theory, review of commonly-used standardized tests, appropriate modification of tests to achieve non-bias, and the review of legislative, legal, and ethical standards.
Clinical experience to prepare teachers to provide effective teaching/learning experiences for K-12 second language learners. The focus of the practicum will be the application of principles, guidelines, strategies and techniques appropriate for K-12 second language learners.

Our online Master of Education degree equips you with enhanced tools to take your classroom to the next level. Increase your repertoire of cutting-edge instructional strategies with seven core courses covering a range of modern education trends and challenges.

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What Is the Career Outlook for a Master’s in TESOL?

Prepare to teach ESL students and multilingual learners in a wide range of classrooms with the USC Upstate master’s in TESOL online. This program aligns with South Carolina’s add-on certification, providing you with research-backed instructional strategies that will serve you in all learning environments, including ESL-specific classrooms.

Take advantage of additional career support through the USC Upstate Career Management Office. Both current and former students can benefit from resume and cover letter assistance, mock interview help, skills workshops, one-on-one career counseling and more.

ESL Teacher $59,950 per year1

Instructional Coordinator $74,720 per year2

Explore More M.Ed. in Applied Learning and Instruction Concentrations

Align your M.Ed. degree online program to your future when you select a required concentration. Each option is taught by world-class faculty and delivered in a flexible online learning format.

Applied Learning and Instruction, (M.Ed.): Early Childhood

The M.Ed. Early Childhood Education online coursework is rooted in developmental theory and provides today’s best practices for working with children.

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Applied Learning and Instruction, (M.Ed.): Elementary

Expert educators will teach you research-driven, grade-level specific teaching strategies you can use right away in this master’s elementary education.

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Applied Learning and Instruction, (M.Ed.): Literacy

Support literacy development in K-12 students with a master’s literacy education that prepares you to design and implement effective reading initiatives.

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Applied Learning and Instruction, (M.Ed.): Research in Practice Education

Strengthen your research literacy capabilities and take steps toward qualifying for the S.C. gifted and talented or project-based learning endorsement.

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Sources and Disclaimer

  1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Adult Basic and Secondary Education and ESL Teachers.” Retrieved Oct. 5, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/adult-literacy-and-ged-teachers.htm.
  2. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. “Instructional Coordinators.” Retrieved Sept. 26, 2025, from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/education-training-and-library/instructional-coordinators.htm.

*In-state tuition with South Carolina teaching certificate