Teaching of Languages (Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages) MATL

Overview

The Master of Arts in the Teaching of Languages (MATL) is a unique program of professional preparation specifically designed to meet the needs of teachers from elementary and secondary education through the junior and community college levels. Designed to integrate theory and practice, the MATL program focuses on the enhancement of language teaching skills and knowledge about language and language learning.

The MATL is not designed for initial teacher certification or licensure. Applicants from other states should check with their respective state departments of education for specific requirements concerning certification or licensure. The school also offers a program of study for the English as a Second Language (ESL) endorsement to a current Mississippi teaching license in any area. Please contact the MATL coordinator for details.

Admission Requirements

In addition to meeting the Admission Requirements and Procedures , the master’s program applicant in the Teaching of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) emphasis must present the following items:

1. One of the following: a) Official scores for the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), b) five or more years of relevant and progressive work experience, c) evidence of official PRAXIS scores at the level accepted by the state in which they teach, d) National Board Certification, or e) a previously completed master’s degree.
2. A current resumé.
3. A statement of purpose written in English (300-500 words) that explains your professional goals and why you want to pursue graduate study in language teaching. The statement can include particular interests, academic accomplishments, travel abroad, teaching experience, or other relevant preparation.
4. For international students whose native language is not English, official scores on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) are required. Successful applicants should have a score of 83 on the Internet-based test, with no section lower than 19. Information on the TOEFL is available at http://www.toefl.org. The school will also accept an IELTS score of a 6.5 with no sub-test score below a 6.
5. Three Letters of Recommendation

Program Requirements and Academic Policies

Students in the TESOL emphasis whose first language is English must meet a foreign language requirement by completing nine hours of undergraduate foreign language study or the equivalent, with an average of “B” or better.

The comprehensive examination consists of a successful defense of a portfolio.

For other requirements and expectations, see General Degree Requirements  and General Academic Information .

Course Requirements (33 hours)

• WL 561 - Teaching Second Languages: Theory into Practice 3 hrs.
• WL 663 - Applied Linguistics in Second and Foreign Languages 3 hrs.
• WL 664 - Second Language Acquisition Theory and Practice 3 hrs.
• WL 665 - Sociocultural and Sociolinguistic Perspectives in Language 3 hrs.
• WL 694 - Practicum in Second or Foreign Language 3 hrs.
• Four (4) additional TSL courses (12 hours)
• Electives 6 hrs.