Doctor of Education in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Program Description/Overview

This program is designed to meet the ever-increasing demand for specialists in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) in schools, universities, government, independent agencies and other organizations throughout the world. The program prepares respected practitioner-scholars with a focus on TESOL theory and methodology, research, curriculum, technology, and teacher education.

Program Learning Outcomes/Goals

The program prepares students to:

1. Acquire a strong theoretical knowledge base in TESOL, second language acquisition, and applied linguistics research
2. Acquire the ability to apply TESOL and second language acquisition theory and research to TESOL methodology
3. Acquire the ability to read, interpret, and evaluate professional literature
4. Acquire the ability to conduct and evaluate original field research and present the findings
5. Acquire a deep understanding of the role of linguistics and the impact of social and cultural factors in learning and teaching a second language
6. Acquire a strong knowledge base in TESOL program design, development, and evaluation
7. Acquire the ability to integrate technology into TESOL teaching and learning
8. Become active members and advocates of the TESOL profession
9. Acquire knowledge and skills to design, implement, and evaluate teacher training programs for ESL/ESL instructors

Program-Specific Admission Requirements

1. Master’s degree in TESOL, English, Education, Applied Linguistics or a related field
2. A minimum of two years of teaching experience, preferably in ESL/EFL
3. Interview with TESOL faculty
4. Two letters of recommendation from supervisors, academic instructors, volunteer coordinators or other professional and/or academic relationships
5. Five to seven page personal essay including autobiographical statement, professional aspirations, accomplishments and any relevant experience

Credit Units

Total Credit Units: 60

Total Core Credit Units: 48

Total Elective Credit Units: 12

Total Concentration Credit Units: N/A

Degree Requirements

A comprehensive exam is required in the student’s final semester of course work.

Elective Requirements

Select four graduate courses with permission of the TESOL program director.

Curriculum Plan

Gainful Employment

For important information about the educational debt, earnings, and completion rates of students who attended this program, please visit https://www.alliant.edu/media/gainful-employment-disclosure/Doctor_Education_Teaching_English_Speakers_Other_Languages.html.