Master in Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language/ESL Language Instructor (Master's)

Tuition is Graduate tuition is charged per credit hour. Current rates are listed on Niagara University’s Graduate Tuition and Fees page., and admissions are rolling.

This 100% online program can be completed in 18 to 24 months with full or part-time study. It offers two tracks: one for initial certification requiring 43 credits, and another for certified teachers seeking professional certification with 37 credits. Students engage in practice-focused coursework and complete supervised field experiences in schools. The program leads to TESOL certification in New York State and prepares graduates for teaching roles in K-12 settings.

Focus areas include Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, Language Acquisition Theories, Culturally Responsive Instruction, Sociolinguistic Factors in Language Learning, Instructional Strategies for Multilingual Learners, Literacy Development for English Language Learners.

The program requires 43 credits for the initial certification track or 37 credits for the professional certification track. Coursework includes TESOL core classes, education prerequisites for initial certification, and a student teaching practicum. All students must complete field experiences under supervision.

Graduates enter roles such as English as a New Language (ENL) teacher, literacy/reading recovery specialist, or adult education instructor in school, community, or workforce development settings.

Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Two letters of recommendation and a statement of intent are required. Those applying for the advanced track must have a master's degree and initial teacher certification.

The programme totals about 43 credit hours. 100% online, full-time or part-time, with flexible scheduling including evening courses. For international students, tuition is below the median for US programmes. The institution admits about 85% of applicants.

Niagara University in Lewiston, New York, blends a long history with a student-centered approach rooted in Catholic and Vincentian values. Founded in 1856, the university offers a supportive, close-knit campus for about 5,000 students, including roughly 700 international learners. That community orientation helps newcomers settle in quickly and find meaningful connections both inside and outside the classroom.

Academically, Niagara delivers a broad selection of programs with an emphasis on experiential learning and ethical leadership. With 68 undergraduate and graduate options, small class sizes allow faculty to mentor students on research projects, internships, and service initiatives. Proximity to the Niagara region and regional partners creates internship and employment pathways in business, education, health sciences, and hospitality.

For international students looking for a values-driven education, Niagara balances personal attention with opportunities for global engagement. Support services include advising, career counseling, and cultural programming to ease academic and social transitions. Prospective students should review program specifics and campus resources early, as strong faculty support and a focus on social responsibility make Niagara a good fit for those seeking both practical skills and a mission-oriented college experience.