Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Please check the Sheffield Hallam University website for the latest information.

Course summary
- Explore the teaching of the English language globally.

- Gain a deep understanding of the underpinning theories and practices.

- Develop a reflective and critical approach to your teaching practice.

- Enhance your skills in course design and material development.

- Acquire research skills to conduct systematic inquiry into the field.

Join a vibrant community of MA TESOL students, English language teachers accredited by the British Council, experienced educators and leading researchers. Whether you're at the start of your career or an experienced teacher aiming to advance, this course supports your growth. It's designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge for senior roles or a PhD, preparing you for a successful career in TESOL.

How you learn
At Sheffield Hallam, all our courses are designed to engage you with the world and challenge you to think in new ways. You’ll get to collaborate with others, and you’ll be taught in a supportive environment where you can thrive.

On this course you’ll explore language learning and teaching theories. You’ll reflect on your own experiences while practising your planning, teaching and assessment skills – as well as conducting ethical research in TESOL. The module assignments offer you flexibility to focus on specific TESOL areas – such as English for Academic Purposes, Young Learners or Assessment – while your dissertation allows you to specialise in a research setting of your choice.

You learn through:
- interactive workshops

- guided observations and personalised feedback

- collaborative activities such as lesson planning, microteaching and group work

- guided reading

- taking part in lectures

- coursework and presentations

- personal tutorials

- collaboration with a research supervisor

Key themes
You’ll explore pedagogical issues related to second-language learning while developing your skills in English Language Teaching (ELT). You'll be supported to develop as an independent, critically-minded scholar in the TESOL field.

Assessments are designed to offer you formative feedback at key points in each module, through verbal and written methods. Summative feedback builds on your learning, especially from research methods in TESOL to the final research project.

Applied learning
Throughout the course you’ll be able to practise your practical teaching and planning skills – such as setting up needs analysis, lesson planning, microteaching, materials development, coursebook analysis, assessing language skills and learning, and conducting systematic inquiry into language learning and teaching.

Networking opportunities
You’ll gain access to an exclusive alumni LinkedIn group, where you can connect with MA TESOL teaching staff and alumni, unlocking opportunities beyond your time at Sheffield Hallam University. You’ll also have access to support activities, resources, employer events, and opportunities provided by our Careers & Employability Team – helping you to maximise your work experience opportunities during your degree.