In this ranking, we profile the top 20 most affordable online masters in TESOL adult learning online programs.
A masters in TESOL adult learning online program prepares graduates for careers as TESOL instructors in secondary institutions, such as community colleges. By earning an online masters in TESOL adult learning degree, you are qualified to teach non-English speaking students how to speak, read, and write in English. To acquire this degree, online options are available.
20 Affordable Online Masters in TESOL Adult Learning Programs Methodology
We looked at 62 colleges and universities listed by the Center for Educational Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offered online masters in TESOL adult learning programs. We narrowed our original pool of schools by applying the following criteria: accreditation (school and/or program and regional or national), institution rankings with at least one major publication, such as U.S. News and World Report, and affordability. We then listed the top 20 master’s in TESOL adult learning online programs according to raw affordability.
Below are the results of our 20 affordable online masters in TESOL adult learning programs.
#20 – The New School
Online Masters in TESOL
New York, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $46,065
Individuals seeking a master’s in TESOL adult learning online program that is accredited and offers career-focused curriculum find the New School a viable choice. Flexible study options make the master’s in TESOL workable for busy students. In fact, the online or hybrid options are popular among working students. The online master’s in TESOL at the New School offers a concentration in either teaching or curriculum development. Courses cover a number of topics, including English in the world, language analysis for teachers, learner assessment, and writing ESOL materials. The degree consists of 30 credits and takes one year of full-time study to complete. Rankings for the New School include #153 in best national university, according to U.S. News and World Report.
#19 – Anaheim University
Online Masters in TESOL
Anaheim, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $26,775
Anaheim University offers an accredited online master’s in TESOL adult learning program designed for working students. Through weekly online HD webcam classes, students receive online instruction and minimal on-campus requirements. In fact, the only on-campus requirements include two four-day, on-campus residential sessions over the course of two years. Courses cover a variety of TESOL topics like classroom management and observation, discourse analysis for language teachers, research methods in language learning, and second language acquisition. Admission to the TESOL graduate program requires undergraduate transcripts from an accredited institution with an overall GPA of at least 3.0.
#18 – Mercy College
Online Masters in TESOL
Dobbs Ferry, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,338
Mercy College offers accredited online TESOL programs designed to prepare students for careers as teachers or course developers. Through Mercy’s School of Education, individuals follow two tracks of study. The first track is for those seeking their first teaching certificate and requires students to complete a 15-week New York State teaching experience. The second track is for candidates who possess a teaching certificate in another content area. These candidates must complete 20 days of clinical practice. Courses can be tailored to meet the needs and career goals of students. In fact, for those seeking careers in adult learning, courses may be taken. Mercy ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 129th to 170th best regional university in the North.
#17 – Regent University
Online Masters in TESOL – Adult Education
Virginia Beach, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,179
Regent University’s master’s in TESOL adult learning online program is CAEP-accredited and consists of 33 credits. By taking online courses that run eight weeks in length, students earn a master’s in TESOL with an adult education credential. Courses cover topics like first and second language acquisition, language teaching approaches and practices, linguistics, roles and responsibilities of the ESL specialist, teaching English as a second or foreign language to adults, and teaching grammar to ESL/EFL learners. Graduates of the program have gone on to secure professional appointments in domestic and international TESOL settings. In addition to its accreditation, Regent University has received rankings from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent U.S. News ranking includes #281 in best national universities.
#16 – University of Maryland
Online Masters in TESOL
Baltimore, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,968
University of Maryland’s online master’s in TESOL adult learning degree trains prospective and experienced teachers of English as a second language (ESL) and English as a foreign language (EFL). Courses for both pathways and the ESOL certificate may be taken on campus, online, or a combination of both. Career preparation comes from students receiving instruction with a strong practical and theoretical foundation in applied linguistics. Those interested in adult learning may tailor their degree by taking specific classes that cover appropriate topics and information. University of Maryland Baltimore ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report and lands a top spot on our list of affordable online master’s in TESOL adult learning programs.
#15 – Webster University
Online Masters in TESL
Saint Louis, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,500
Webster University’s online adult learning master’s program offers a TESL degree. The program is designed for education professionals with or without teaching experience. While there is a K-12 credential, those seeking adult learning careers receive appropriate instruction. In fact, many classes are designed for those wanting to become future educators of adult learners. One unique aspect of the master’s in TESL at Webster University is the partnership the school has with Uzbekistan State University of World Languages, which now offers the MA in TESL locally. Webster is accredited and ranked regionally by U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks Webster #17 in best regional universities in the Midwest.
#14 – Colorado State University
Online Master’s in Adult Education and Training
Fort Collins, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,495
Offering an alternative to the online master’s in TESOL adult learning programs, Colorado State University presents unique programs for those seeking specialized adult learning credentials. CSU offers an M.Ed. in adult education and training. Courses are delivered online and cover a number of adult learning topics. In fact, courses include adult learning theory, instructional design, learning technologies, learning transfer, methods of instruction, and program assessment. The online program consists of 30 credits and can be completed in five semesters, depending on enrollment status and course availability. CSU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 166th best national university.
#13 – University of Northern Colorado
Masters in TESOL Online
Greeley, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,444
The University of Northern Colorado offers a master’s in TESOL adult learning online program designed for working and professional students. A total of 30 credits are required and opportunities to receive credentials in ESL adult education are available. Students complete 24 credit hours of required courses. Once the requirements are out of the way, electives may be taken. Courses cover topics like communication and technologies for multilingual education, introduction to graduate research, multilingualism and multilingual education theories and practices, and seminar in multilingual teaching and learning. University of Northern Colorado ranks #293-#381 in best national universities and offers one of the most affordable programs on our list.
#12 – University of Georgia
Masters in TESOL Online
Athens, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,982
University of Georgia’s online TESOL programs include the online master’s in TESOL. The program consists of online courses in order to earn a 15-credit certificate in addition to the master’s degree. For the online certificate in TESOL, students complete five of six courses. Course options cover a number of topics, including bilingualism and bilingual education, classroom methodology and practice, focused study on connections between language and culture, introduction to theories of first and second language acquisition, and tools for assessing development of language learners. According to the latest publication of Best Colleges by U.S. News and World Report, University of Georgia ranks #50 in best national universities. Also, the online graduate education programs, including TESOL, rank #5 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#11 – University of Northern Iowa
Masters in TESOL Online
Cedar Falls, Iowa
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,432
University of Northern Iowa’s online master’s in TESOL adult learning prepares graduates to work in community, business, or professional settings. Courses are offered using an online platform and are taught in eight-week modules on Thursday evenings. Courses cover TESOL topics like approaches to language learning and teaching, cultural aspects of language and language teaching, introduction to linguistics, principles and practices in language teaching, and second language acquisition. University of Northern Iowa ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 20th best regional university in the Midwest. Other rankings include #14 in best colleges for veterans and #55 in best value schools.
#10 – University of North Dakota
Online M.Ed. in TESOL
Grand Forks, North Dakota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,697
University of North Dakota’s online adult learning master’s program consists of 35 credits and yields a master’s in TESOL. The program may be tailored for individuals who want to teach English in K-12 settings or instruct intensive English programs abroad or in community adult classrooms. The program is 100% online and takes two years to complete. Courses cover topics like assessment and evaluation in ELL education, introduction to the foundations of education, introduction to multilingual education, literacy instruction for English language learners, research and advocacy in TESOL, and second language acquisition for ELL teachers. Applicants must have a 2.75 undergraduate GPA to apply for admission. UND ranks with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 263rd best national university and 128th top public school.
#9 – McDaniel College
Online Masters in TESOL
Westminster, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,150
McDaniel College offers online TESOL programs that emphasize adult learning. The 36-credit online master’s in TESOL requires applicants provide an undergraduate degree from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75. Courses are delivered online and cover TESOL and adult learning topics. These courses include assessment of English learners, bilingual special education, foundations in English learner education, grammar for ESOL teachers, and principles of language acquisition. McDaniel’s TESOL program meets Maryland’s certification requirements and is aligned with the professional standards established by the National Council for the Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE). Recently published 2020 rankings by U.S. News and World Report indicate McDaniel ranks #1 in best value schools and #22 in best regional university in the North.
#8 – Murray State University
Online Masters in TESOL
Murray, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,114
For individuals seeking an online adult learning master’s program, Murray State University offers options. The online master’s in TESOL at Murray State is designed for working professionals seeking part-time enrollment options. The master’s in TESOL degree provides students with the skills needed to work in community colleges and universities teaching pre-college English programs. Courses are delivered via online platforms that are flexible and conveniently designed. Courses cover TESOL topics like applied linguistics and professional practices, course and syllabus design in ESL/EFL, foundations of second language acquisition, language and culture, methods and materials for teaching ESL, and teaching ESL/EFT writing. MSU ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 24th best regional university in the South.
#7 – Troy University
Online Master’s in Adult Education – Second Language Instruction
Troy, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,506
With few online master’s in TESOL adult learning programs available, some students opt for a master’s in adult education such as the one offered at Troy University. Students may elect one of three areas of graduate study in adult education or second language instruction. The second language instruction courses are flexible and delivered online. These courses include topics like assessment and evaluation, grammar, introduction to linguistics, methods and approaches in SL teaching, survey of sociolinguistics for second language teachers, and teaching language skills. Prior to enrollment, a bachelor’s degree is required. Troy University ranks with U.S. News and World Report. In fact, 2020 rankings include #65 in best regional universities in the South and #14 in most innovative schools.
#6 – Emporia State University
Online Masters in TESOL
Emporia, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,374
Emporia State University’s online adult learning master’s program serves the increasing need for Teaching English as a Second and/or Foreign Language. The online TESOL program consists of 36 credits and covers a wide range of TESOL and adult learning course topics. These topics include composition theory and rhetoric, cross-cultural communication, individual differences in second language instruction, literacy and reading theory and practice, second language acquisition, and TESOL methodology. Admission to the Emporia State Graduate School requires official transcripts of all college coursework and a minimum GPA of 2.75 on undergraduate work. Emporia State ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 95th best regional university in the Midwest and 24th top public school.
#5 – Lamar University
Online M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership – ESL
Beaumont, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,174
Lamar University’s online TESOL programs include the M.Ed. in teacher leadership with a specialization in ESL. In as few as 18 months, students may earn the 36 credits required for the online graduate degree. Courses are taught by Lamar professors and delivered online. These courses cover a number of ESL topics such as diverse learners, literacy for English language learners, methods and approaches in teaching ESL, research and current issues in education, and using assessment data to guide instructional decisions. Lamar ranks with major publications as a top institution. In fact, the 2020 rankings by U.S. News and World Report show Lamar ranks #293-#381 in best national universities and #335 in top performers on social mobility.
#4 – Sam Houston State University
Online M.Ed. in TESOL
Huntsville, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,791
Sam Houston State University’s online adult learning master’s programs include the online M.Ed. in TESOL. The program focuses on the theories of language instruction and the application of research-based practices for teaching English to non-English speaking students. The program consists of 30 credits, which can be completed entirely online. While the degree offers curriculum for those who wish to teach at a variety of levels, individuals looking for adult learning careers can curtail their degree to align with these goals. The application process can also be completed online. To add to the flexible application process, three application deadlines are offered throughout the year. According to U.S. News and World Report, Sam Houston State ranks #281 in best national universities and #140 in top public schools.
#3 – Spring Arbor University
Masters in TESOL Online
Spring Arbor, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,757
Spring Arbor University’s online TESOL programs offers two master’s tracks: K-12 and adolescent and adult education. There is no GRE or GMAT requirement for admission. However, for the adult education track, students must hold a bachelor’s degree of any major. The program is conveniently designed for working teachers and professional educators with busy lives. Classes are delivered 100% online. Topics covered include assessment and evaluation of language minority students and programs, cross cultural competence in communication, and linguistics for teachers of English. Spring Arbor is a regionally ranked institution. In fact, Spring Arbor ranks with U.S. News and World Report as the 43rd best regional university in the Midwest.
#2 – Southeast Missouri State University
Masters in TESOL Online
Cape Girardeau, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,680
Southeast Missouri State University’s master’s in TESOL adult learning online program is taught by experienced faculty that offer mentorship to graduate students. Courses are delivered entirely online, which means there are no campus requirements to meet along the way. These online courses cover topics like approaches to the teaching of grammar, practicum in TESOL, special problems in TESOL, and structural and traditional approaches to the teaching of grammar. Also, the program offers certificate options for those seeking add-on credentials. Southeast Missouri State ranks with U.S. News and World Report. The 2020 rankings include #78 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #16 in top public schools.
#1 – The University of Texas of the Permian Basin
Online Master’s in Bilingual/ESL Education
Odessa, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,085
The University of Texas of the Permian Basis offers a master’s in TESOL adult learning online degree. The online master’s in bilingual and ESL education is one of the shortest programs on our list. Students have the opportunity to finish their degree in just 12 months. In addition to the short completion time, the UTPB master’s is unique in that the bilingual option is designed to prepare students who are proficient in Spanish. This unique program is ideal for those seeking to enrich careers educating in a bilingual environment. As far as rankings go, the school has earned recognition from U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the 2020 rankings for the University of Texas of the Permian Basin include #82 in best regional universities in the West and #42 in top public schools.
BCO Staff
January 2020