Best Online Bachelor’s in English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs
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In 2020, the National Center for Education Statistics reported that nearly five million students in public schools were English language learners (ELLs), which is nearly 10% of the public school population. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security reports that approximately one million immigrants have become permanent U.S. residents every year since 2005. This population increase has lead to a need for ESL majors. A degree in teaching English as a second language helps candidates enter guidance careers.
The field’s diversity allows students to work with different age groups and in various work environments. For instance, a person who enjoys working with children can specialize in K–12 ESL education, while a person who prefers the outdoors can become an ESL summer camp manager.
Accredited Online Schools
The Best Online Bachelor’s in English Language Learning Degree Programs
Concordia University, Nebraska
Seward, NE- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$32,890
- Out-of-state$32,890
- In-State$8,650
- Out-of-state$8,650
- Retention Rate82%
- Acceptance Rate78%
- Students Enrolled2,703
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment27%
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Bachelor’s in English Language Learning
2023
Online Bachelor’s in English Language Learning Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
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Choosing a Online ESL Degree Program
Students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in ESL explore topics such as cultural diversity, grammar, teaching strategies, and learn to determine a non–native speakers level of understanding. Teachers need strong communication skills and a background in teaching theory. Students learn to assist ELLs in writing, reading, and speaking.
Departments offer concentrations that cater to career goals. For instance, future instructional coordinators may select a curriculum focus for an in–depth study of teaching strategies. Other students may choose teaching English as a foreign language concentration or an age–specific specialization.
Students should consider other academic fields that may assist in career endeavors. For example, an individual who wants to open an extracurricular ESL program for children can select an education bachelor’s program and minor in business.
Program details vary by requirements. For example, some schools may require learners to complete a student teaching component, which prepares students for teaching careers. Other programs involve capstone projects or research–heavy coursework. These factors should impact school choice. For instance, a candidate who wants to work at an ESL organization may find the student teaching component time–consuming and choose a program with a capstone project instead.
Accredited Online Schools
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in English Language Learning Program?
Each school has distinct curricula for an ESL bachelor’s degree. For instance, a bachelor’s in teaching ESL to K–12 learners includes coursework about children. While a program with a TEFL specialization includes classes on cultural diversity. Core ESL concepts will be a focus in programs, regardless of concentration.
Curriculum for an Online Bachelor’s Degree in English Language Learning
- Second Language Acquisition (SLA)
- These courses examine how candidates learn a foreign language. Students explore first language acquisition, and elements that make SLA more difficult, such as age. Graduates learn to teach English to non–native speakers.
- Teaching English as a Second Language
- Coursework includes theories in language acquisition, evaluating classroom needs, and guidelines for constructing lesson plans. This class prepares candidates for positions as ESL teachers and administrators.
- Language Structure
- Topics in this course include grammar, semantics, syntax, and the format of English sentences. These concepts provide insight into ESL teaching careers.
- TESOL Curriculum
- Students study theories, current research, and the best practices for assisting an ELL. Concepts, such as technology usage, may surface in coursework. ESL curriculum classes prepare candidates for careers as teachers and instructional coordinators.
- Language and Culture
- Candidates explore cultural concepts that impact language learning, including politics and social behaviors. Coursework prepares learners to teach ESL in multicultural schools, and oversee ESL programs.
Careers with a Bachelor’s in English Language Learning
Studying English language learning can lead to diverse careers. For instance, children in K–12 settings or immigration may need English guidance. ESL assistance is also needed in classrooms or external organizations. Candidates can pursue distinct careers, including positions at bilingual daycares and ESL summer camps.
- Adult Literacy and High School Equivalency Diploma Teachers
- These educators prepare learners for diploma equivalency tests. Teachers need to be fluent in speaking, reading, and writing the language. Candidates with an ESL bachelor’s degree learn to teach second language concepts to non-native speakers.
- Median Annual Salary: $58,590
- Projected Growth Rate: –13%
- Kindergarten and Elementary School Teachers
- Teachers educate young learners in subjects, such as mathematics and reading. Career responsibilities include building lesson plans, maintaining classroom regulations, and discussing academic accomplishments and weaknesses with parents. An ESL bachelor’s degree prepares educators to work with ESL students and families.
- Median Annual Salary: $61,620
- Projected Growth Rate: 1%
- Social and Community Service Managers
- Managers of this caliber determine community needs and develop programs for current problems. These workers assess programs and develop strategies to improve an organization’s influence. Earning a TESOL bachelor’s degree online helps candidates perform these tasks for ESL groups.
- Median Annual Salary: $74,240
- Projected Growth Rate: 9%
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
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