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MTESOL
Master of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages

Unlock global opportunities with a TESOL qualification. The MTESOL degree at the University of Waikato provides dedicated pathways for both new and experienced teachers

In this programme you will develop the knowledge and skills needed to teach English to speakers of other languages, via one of our two study pathways; pre-service or in-service.

You will have the option to choose a teaching practice paper which puts you in the classroom, micro-teaching with peers and formal teaching with learners, as well as papers in applied linguistics, second language acquisition and education theory. We offer a diverse range of electives that recognise the potential career pathways our graduates will pursue.

Students will engage with and undertake TESOL-related research, completing both research methods and research report papers. Throughout your degree you will have access to a range of supports, including your own English language development, academic literacies and study skills development, and opportunities to engage in regular events and symposia designed to encourage reflection, dialogue and personal and professional development.

Pre-service: The pre-service pathway is designed for graduates who do not yet have TESOL teaching experience, or who may wish to have the opportunity to participate in the teaching practice paper.

The pre-service pathway includes a teaching practice paper where you will experience micro-teaching with peers and formal teaching with learners. You will also take papers in applied linguistics, second language acquisition and education theory. We offer a diverse range of electives that recognise the potential career pathways our graduates will pursue, including teaching with digital technologies, English as a medium of instruction, leadership and management, and disability and inclusion.

In-service:  The in-service pathway is designed for teaching professionals who have at least two years teaching experience, and who wish to further their understanding of TESOL teaching, and how languages are learnt and taught.

The electives for this pathway recognise the range of career opportunities that are available to MTESOL graduates, who might pursue careers in teaching, in materials or curriculum development, school leadership, and global consultants. Students are invited to pursue their own interests and career aspirations.

Students choosing the in-service pathway have the option to choose the teaching practice paper where they will experience micro-teaching with peers and formal teaching with learners, as well as papers in applied linguistics, second language acquisition and education theory. We offer a diverse range of electives that recognise the potential career pathways our graduates will purse.

Apply to enrol

Key information

Years: 1.5
Points: 180
MTESOL Study Locations:Hamilton, Online
Papers offered differ by location. The Catalogue of Papers has full location info.
Start Dates: Trimester A (March) and Trimester B (July)
Estimated Fees* (International): $31,765 (120 points) or $47,500 (180 points)
Entry Requirements: Postgraduate International
Area of Study:
*Tuition fees shown are indicative only and may change. There are additional fees and charges related to enrolment please see the Table of Fees and Charges for more information. You will be sent an enrolment agreement which will confirm your fees.

Degree Planner

Degree planner — MTESOL

Year 2

Choose a paper from List A or B

  • Compulsory
  • Elective
This information is provisional and subject to change.

Degree planner — MTESOL - In-service

Year 2

Choose a paper from List A or B

  • Compulsory
  • Elective
This information is provisional and subject to change.


Career opportunities

  • Teach ESOL in NZ or Abroad
  • Private Tutor
  • Teacher Trainer
  • Teach within Language Schools
  • Language support for migrants and refugees
  • Materials development
  • Language assessment development
  • Doctoral studies

Admission normally requires:

(1) IELTS 6.5 or equivalent English language

(2) a bachelors degree in a relevant discipline with a B grade average

This programme will not lead to registration as a teacher in New Zealand - if you are interested in training to become a teacher we suggest you contact our team on [email protected] to explore your options.


Scholarships and prizes

Visit our Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships

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