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» Master of arts in teaching english as a second language

The Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language (MATESL) program prepares men and women to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) in three areas: elementary school, middle and high school, and adult English language programs. Students enroll in an educator licensure or a non-licensure MATESL track, depending on their area of specialization. (See Degree Options). Small classes, individual guidance from faculty and supervisors, extensive practicum experience, and a supportive, experiential learning environment make the MATESL program personal and very practical.

The integrated MATESL curriculum provides a balance of theory and practice. Courses address issues related to second language acquisition, multicultural classrooms, curriculum development, and language policy. Through a combination of research, practicum experience, and hands-on projects, students consider bilingual challenges such as how to plan a lesson that reaches all learners, whether children are really better language learners than adults, which “English” should be taught, what is the role of grammar in teaching ESL, and how to determine the proper balance between academic content and language skills in public schools. In addition to teaching methodologies, the program emphasizes lesson planning and teaching strategy. All MATESL students complete a challenging capstone project — a 12-week curriculum plan that demonstrates their knowledge, skill, and creativity. Depending on their area of specialization, students conduct teaching practicums in public schools or in adult education programs.

MATESL students bring inspiration, ideas, and a wide range of professional and cultural experience to the program. Some have worked with immigrant populations in their communities or volunteered as ESL tutors; others have taught abroad. All share a love for language — and for helping learners develop language and culture skills that will help them participate fully in academic, work, and social environments.

Degree Options

The MATESL program offers a Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language, with licensure and non-licensure options, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study (C.A.G.S.). Students who plan to teach in public schools may specialize in elementary or middle and high school instruction. Both tracks meet Massachusetts Department of Education requirements for licensure as a Teacher of English Language Learners (grades PreK-6) and Teacher of English Language Learners (grades 5-12), respectively. Degree requirements range from 40 credits for middle and high school licensure, to 48 credits for elementary licensure. A 36-credit non-licensure MATESL option is available for those who plan to teach in settings that do not require licensure — such as adult education programs, college-level intensive ESL programs, independent language or secondary schools, and business settings. For those who hold a master’s degree but wish to specialize in ESL, the C.A.G.S. option (36 - 44 credits) also provides preparation for state licensure and must be designed in consultation with the program director.

The MATESL program is typically completed in 16 to 20 months of full-time study. Part-time students may design an individual program sequence in consultation with the program director and must complete the degree within five years. Candidates for admission must meet program prerequisites, including a background in liberal arts and competency in a second language.

Intensive Teaching Experience

In keeping with the best education practices, MATESL faculty advisors personally supervise each student’s course load and help match students with a teaching practicum that meets their goals. The practicum allows students to apply their knowledge, learn from experienced practitioners, and test creative strategies in the classroom. Most Simmons MATESL students choose to do two semesters of student teaching — more than is required under current regulations for licensure in Massachusetts. They say the additional clinical teaching experience gives them confidence and a competitive advantage in the job market. Field supervisors and participating teachers — including many Simmons MATESL alumni — work closely with students to mentor and support their progress.

From Public Schools to Foreign Shores

Simmons MATESL graduates teach children and adults, including immigrants, international students, and businesspeople. They work in public schools across the country, as well as in community-based education programs, colleges and universities, cultural organizations and immigration centers, private schools, and businesses in the United States and around the world.

Curriculum and Courses

Sample Courses
  • Bilingualism in Multicultural Settings
  • Teaching Strategies for the Inclusive Classroom
  • TESL Methodology and Curriculum Development
  • Research and Evaluation in Schools

Download the PDF Document Program Fact Sheet for more information on the curriculum, and see our "Courses" section to view course descriptions.

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Simmons Success

“Simmons MATESL student interns are the best prepared, the best supervised, and the most wonderful student teachers I have mentored in my 32-year teaching career. I love working with students from Simmons.”
—Bryna Leeder, Supervising Teacher, Watertown High School, Watertown, MA

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