Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

The Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at New York University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare educators for effective teaching of English language learners in diverse settings. This graduate program combines theoretical foundations with practical teaching skills, equipping students with the essential knowledge, pedagogical techniques, and cultural competencies required to excel in TESOL environments worldwide. Through a rigorous curriculum, students explore linguistics, language acquisition, curriculum design, and assessment strategies tailored to the needs of second language learners. The program emphasizes experiential learning, giving students opportunities to observe, assist, and lead ESL classes under the guidance of experienced faculty and practicing professionals. Students engage in coursework covering phonology, syntax, semantics, and sociolinguistics, fostering a deep understanding of the structure and use of the English language. Additionally, the program addresses issues of multiculturalism, diversity, and inclusion, preparing graduates to create effective and culturally responsive language instruction. Practical teaching placements are integrated into the curriculum, providing real-world experience that enhances classroom management, lesson planning, and instructional delivery skills. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to work in a variety of contexts, such as K-12 schools, universities, language institutes, and community programs, both in the United States and internationally. The program also emphasizes research skills, encouraging students to contribute to the advancement of TESOL practices through capstone projects and scholarly inquiry. With its location in New York City, a global hub for cultural and linguistic diversity, the NYU TESOL program offers students unique opportunities to engage with diverse language communities, attend conferences, and collaborate with professionals from around the world. Graduates leave the program ready to influence language education policies, develop innovative curricula, and support learners in achieving their full language potential. Overall, NYU’s TESOL program combines academic rigor, practical experience, and a commitment to social justice, ensuring that graduates are not only skilled educators but also advocates for equitable language education worldwide.

Foundation and Content Courses
The PhD in TESOL combines courses on the foundation of TESOL and research methods with departmental content seminars and a dissertation proposal seminar. We believe in the value of multilingualism and multiliteracy, and emphasize respect for and appreciation of all languages and cultures. Students are required to take 54 points of coursework and one point per semester for advisement while preparing their doctoral dissertations.

Research Opportunities
Located in one of the most diverse urban settings in the world, NYU is an ideal facility for conducting educational research. As a doctoral student in our program, you will research and prepare your dissertation while working closely with your faculty mentor.

Doctoral Seminars
 Doctoral coursework dedicated to TESOL is supplemented with departmental content seminars and a dissertation proposal seminar. Open to doctoral students enrolled in any department or program at NYU, these seminars foster deep conversations on relevant literature and texts, and reflections on issues and research in the field. You’ll work on a paper or project, refine your scholarly voice, and define a dissertation focus. 

Requirements

• Résumé/CV
• Statement of Purpose
• Writing Sample
• Submit three letters of recommendation.
• Transcripts
• GRE
• Test of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TOEFL), scores are valid for two years from the date taken. Successful candidates typically score a 100 on the Internet based exam or 600 on the paper based exam. Send official scores from ETS to NYU Steinhardt using institution code 2556. A department code is not required.Please ensure 2556 is listed as your "Designated Score Recipient" 
• The International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Official scores are valid for two years from the date taken. Successful candidates typically achieve a band score of 7. Send official scores from IELTS to NYU Steinhardt by selecting New York University, Steinhardt School of Culture, Education and Human Development as a score recipient. 
• Pearson Test of English (PTE Academic). Official scores are valid for two years from the date taken. Successful candidates typically score a 68 to 70. Send official scores from PTE Academic to NYU Steinhardt by selecting New York University, NYU Steinhardt-Graduate Admissions as a score recipient. 

Scholarships

The Steinhardt Fellows Program

Financial support includes a scholarship for three to five years (depending on your program of study and degree requirements), tuition remission for required coursework, and student health insurance through the third year. Complete details are provided with each offer of admission.

Research Assistantships

Some doctoral students may be appointed to a Research Assistantship. Research Assistants are funded by external grants and work with a principal investigator on a funded research project. Unlike Steinhardt Fellows, Research Assistants agree to work 20 hours per week on an ongoing research project, typically with a team of faculty and other students. For the duration of the assistantship, Research Assistants receive funding that includes tuition remission for required coursework, student health insurance, and a stipend. Research Assistants may not perform additional work assignments such as teaching or grading.

The Master of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at New York University is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in English language teaching both domestically and internationally. The program emphasizes practical teaching skills, theoretical understanding of language acquisition, linguistics, and cultural competence. It provides students with a solid foundation in second language acquisition theories, curriculum development, assessment methods, and instructional technology. Students have opportunities to gain firsthand teaching experience through practicum placements in diverse educational settings, which enhances their practical skills and professional confidence.

The curriculum is structured to include core courses in linguistics, syntax, phonetics, and semantics, alongside specialized courses in TESOL methodology, intercultural communication, and language assessment. There is also an emphasis on research skills and academic writing, preparing graduates for possible further academic pursuits or professional development within the field. The program encourages a global perspective on language teaching, acknowledging the diversity of learner backgrounds and the importance of culturally responsive teaching practices.

NYU’s location in New York City offers students unique opportunities for internships and connections with language schools, nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions that serve diverse populations. The faculty includes experienced linguists, educators, and language specialists who are actively involved in research and practice in TESOL. Students are supported by a comprehensive career services office that assists with job placement, internships, and professional networking.

The program typically can be completed within a specified timeframe, often a year or two, depending on whether students are enrolled full-time or part-time. It is suitable for individuals who already hold a bachelor’s degree and are seeking specialized training in teaching English as a second language. Graduates of the program often find positions as English language teachers in K-12 schools, language institutes, international organizations, and higher education institutions, or pursue doctoral studies in related fields. The NYU TESOL program aims to produce highly skilled, culturally aware educators capable of making a positive impact in the global landscape of English language instruction.