TESOL

The Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) at Victoria University of Wellington is a comprehensive undergraduate programme designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills needed to become effective English language teachers in diverse international contexts. This programme combines theoretical foundations in linguistics, language acquisition, and intercultural communication with practical teaching experience, preparing graduates for careers in teaching English abroad or in multilingual settings within New Zealand. Students will explore core topics such as syntax, semantics, phonetics, and discourse analysis, alongside pedagogical approaches tailored for adult learners, young learners, and academic settings. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical language awareness, classroom management skills, assessment techniques, and the integration of technology in language teaching. Additionally, students have opportunities to gain practical teaching experience through supervised practicum placements in local and international educational institutions. The programme fosters intercultural competence, preparing graduates to navigate the complexities of diverse classrooms and contribute meaningfully to language education globally. Graduates of the TESOL programme can pursue employment in a variety of sectors, including international schools, language institutes, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies involved in language policy and education development. With a strong foundation in both theoretical understanding and practical application, the Bachelor of Arts in TESOL from Victoria University of Wellington aims to produce well-rounded educators capable of making a positive impact on learners worldwide.

There are seven core courses from three different categories for the MA in TESOL. The Course Planner (see below) will help you to choose your core TESOL courses and electives. It is best to do core courses first as they provide a useful preparation for other courses.

Teaching Practice Focus

At least three courses from:

• Listening & Speaking in the Language Classroom
• Teaching Reading & Writing
• Language Curriculum Design
• Special Topic: English for Academic Purposes
• Special Topic: Reflective Practice for Language Teachers
• Special Topic: Task-Based Language Teaching
• Language for Specific Purposes
• Teaching & Learning Vocabulary
• Language Assessment
• Language Testing
• Computer-assisted Language Learning

Linguistic Understanding Focus

At least two courses from

• Teaching and Learning Grammar
• The Pronunciation of English
• Discourse Analysis
• Phonetics & Phonology
• Issues in Sociolinguistics

Language Learning Focus

At least two courses from:

• Understanding Second Language Learning
• Special Topic: Cognitive Linguistics & L2 Pedagogy
• Learners & Second Language Learning
• Learner Autonomy & Learning Strategies
• Interaction & Identity in Language Learning

Plus five more courses from any column on the Planner.

• Evaluating Research in Applied Linguistics
• The Research Process
• Language in the Workplace
• Syntactic Analysis
• Research Paper
• Research Project

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree (or equivalent qualification) in Linguistics, English Language, Education or a language other than English (or another relevant degree), and at least two years of professional experience in language education or other aspects of applied linguistics.
• TOEFL 575 with (preferably) a TWE of 5; or 237 on the computer-based test; or 90 on the internet-based test with a minimum 20 in writing; or
• IELTS overall band of 6.5 with no sub-score below 6.0; or
• Pearson Test of English: minimum score of 65 (with a ‘Communicative’ score of not less than 58); or
• A minimum of two ratings of 5 and two ratings of 4 in the Victoria University English Proficiency Programme test.

Scholarships

• Erasmus Mundus Scholarship
• Global Education
• Wellington U3A Award
• VUW Hardship Fund Equity Grants
• Karis Boyd Scholarship
• Victoria Graduate Award
• International Student Achievement Scholarship
• Graduate Women Wellington - First in Family Scholarship

The Bachelor of Education (Teaching) with a specialization in TESOL at Victoria University of Wellington is designed for students who aspire to become qualified English language teachers both in New Zealand and internationally. This programme provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical teaching skills, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to meet the demands of language education in diverse contexts. Throughout the course, students explore various aspects of language teaching, including linguistics, language acquisition, curriculum development, assessment, and pedagogy.

The programme typically includes professional practice components, where students have opportunities to observe and teach in real classroom settings, gaining valuable practical experience. These placements are often conducted in local schools, language centers, or community organizations, enabling students to apply their theoretical learning in authentic environments. The coursework emphasizes cultural competency, inclusive education, and the use of technology in language teaching, recognizing the importance of adaptable and culturally sensitive teaching methodologies.

Victoria University of Wellington's TESOL programme also offers opportunities for research and specialization in areas such as teaching English for specific purposes, intercultural communication, and language policy. The faculty comprises experienced educators and researchers who are actively involved in language education, providing mentorship and support throughout the student's academic journey.

Graduates of the programme are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to work as TESOL teachers in a variety of settings, including schools, language institutes, and community programs both within New Zealand and globally. The degree also provides a foundation for further academic pursuits in linguistics, education, or language policy.

The university's strategic location in Wellington offers students access to a vibrant multicultural city, which enriches their learning experience through exposure to diverse languages and cultural perspectives. The programme adheres to national and international standards for TESOL education, ensuring graduates meet the qualifications required for employment by educational institutions worldwide.

Overall, the Victoria University of Wellington Bachelor of Education (Teaching) with TESOL specialization is a rigorous and comprehensive programme suited for those passionate about language education and cultural exchange. It aims to produce innovative, competent, and reflective teachers capable of making a positive impact in the field of English language teaching across a variety of educational and community settings.