A degree improves a graduate’s chances of attaining a dream job, receiving a higher starting salary and expanding career prospects. One of the main reasons teachers pursue a Master of Education, Curriculum and Instruction is to work with the growing number of English language learners.
Having an ESL-focused degree can boost a teacher’s chances of getting the job. BigFuture from CollegeBoard says ESL teachers are in demand. The degree proves valuable to mainstream classroom teachers who may not speak a second language. Besides, the number of languages spoken by students attending American schools is too broad for schools to provide a teacher for every language.
A master’s degree in ESL explores more than language. It also digs into how culture affects language learning and school achievement.
Advance or Change Careers
People who hold an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction can meet the requirements for a wide range of education jobs at different levels. Aside from teaching in the classroom, they may land a job as a curriculum supervisor, instructional coordinator or school administrator.
Many job listings for administrator and educational leader positions prefer or require a master’s degree. Possessing the degree helps an applicant stand out from those with only a bachelor’s degree.
Gain Transferable Skills
Some programs require a variety of courses, not just those related to ESL. For example, the online M.Ed., Curriculum & Instruction – Concentration in English as a Second Language (ESL) program at the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) requires students to take courses like Curriculum Design for Multicultural Environments; Research-Based Instruction; and Technology Integration and Portfolio Development. The knowledge from these courses will also serve students for other important areas of education.
Grow Your Network
Online graduate students have opportunities to interact with professors, guest speakers and fellow students. These interactions enable them to build relationships and expand their networks outside of their job setting. Students may also gain introductions to subject-matter experts and school district leaders.
Many students enrolled in online graduate programs also work full time in different schools and locations. This provides them with opportunities to connect with potential employers and resources. The university’s alumni organization adds another avenue to expand your network.
Command a Higher Salary
The possibility of earning a higher salary as an ESL teacher depends on various factors such as years of experience, location and employer. The English as a Second Language (ESL) Teacher median salary in the U.S. is $40,809 per year, according to PayScale (July 2018).
Why Pursue an M.Ed. in ESL Online?
Teachers enrolled in online graduate programs like the University of Louisiana Monroe’s M.Ed. C&I concentration in English as a Second Language (ESL) can work at their own pace on a schedule that fits their lifestyle. They are saved the commute to a campus for in-person classes. Because of its flexibility and accelerated schedule, students in the online program can earn the M.Ed. degree in as few as 15 months.
Learn more about ULM’s online M.Ed. C&I program.
Sources:
BigFuture: Major: Teaching English as a Second Language (ESL)