Can you teach ESL with a Master's in English?

Question

Or do you have to have a Master's in something like Applied Lingustics?

Answer 1

In Texas, you need an ESL teaching certificate - if you are already certified then you can take a test to get this.

It is important to understand how language is acquired as well to have strategies for teaching English to LEP kids.

I am a math teacher with an ESL credential. At my school we get kids that speak no English what so ever - it is my job to deliver the math curriculum in a way that allows them to learn it while learning English. Tricky stuff sometimes but rewarding.

Good Luck to you.

http://www.texes.ets.org/    This the Texas info

Answer 2

It depends on the school you're applying to.  I've taught ESL in high school with just a bachelor's.  In California, any teacher with a CLAD certificate can teach English to language learners.

Answer 3

It depends on the job you want and the location. If you just want a language school job, you will do fine (although some schools prefer a Master's in TESOL or a TESOL certificate). You might also be able to get a job at a university overseas. I taught at universities in Taiwan and Hong Kong and knew many other teachers with Master's degrees in English. Try the pages below for more information about teaching overseas: