Frequently asked questions

How long will it take me to complete the program?
If you attend on a full-time basis, the M.A. in TESOL takes two years (four academic semesters, excluding summer term).

What is the average course load per semester for full-time students?
Three courses per semester.

Can I attend the program part time?
Yes, we accept part-time students.

What are the admission requirements?
See the Entrance requirements page. International students should also see the International students page. Also, for information on the required components of an application, see the Application procedure page.

Are students admitted in both the fall and spring semesters?
We only admit students in the fall semester. Exceptions are granted only in cases of transfer students from other graduate programs in TESOL.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, if ...

  • you took the course at the graduate level,
  • the course was not applied to another degree, and
  • your grade was "B" or higher.


    • Does the program include state certification for teaching in the public schools?
    No, our program does not lead to Illinois State certification. The emphasis in the program is on the teaching of adults.

    What sorts of financial aid are available?
    See Financial aid.

    Does the program lead to a "certificate" in TESOL?
    We do not offer a TESOL "certificate," only a M.A. The M.A. is the mostly widely accepted credential in the field.

    Why is the M.A. degree in Linguistics? Is this different from an M.A. in TESOL?
    The M.A. in TESOL at UIC is officially known as a "Masters of Arts in Linguistics, with a specialization in TESOL." The reason is mainly historical. When the degree program was first established, the TESOL program was housed in the Department of Linguistics. It is equivalent to an M.A. in TESOL.

    How is the program different from a degree program in a School of Education? What is the emphasis of UIC's TESOL program?
    At UIC, our primary focus is TESOL with post-secondary students--both in academic (intensive English programs, community colleges and colleges/universities) and non-academic (vocational, community) programs within the United States and in international settings. The School of Education focuses on ESL and bilingual education at the elementary and secondary levels.

    At what time of day are the classes?
    Classes meet in the afternoons.

    What are the degree requirements?
    See Degree requirements.

    Will I get practical experience during the program?
    Yes, see Practical experience on the Degree requirements page.

    What are the job prospects for graduates?
    Students who were able to conduct an open search, not limited to one particular city have been 100 percent successful in finding full-time employment.
     
    See Past placements in the Career section for information on where our graduates have found employment.

    Does the program help graduates find jobs?
    See Graduate LISTSERV in the Career section for information on how we communicate job openings to our alumni. We also assist students in preparing resumes for their job searches.