TESOL/Spanish M.A.
Develop a strong background in the methodology of teaching
In this dynamic combined master’s program, students develop a strong background in Teaching Methodology for teaching both English and Spanish to speakers of other languages. Our students have diverse language backgrounds and are speakers of English, Spanish, and other languages from the U.S. and abroad.
In addition to courses focused on second language teaching methodology, the TESOL portion of the program includes coursework in several areas of Linguistics and Applied Linguistics. The Spanish side of the program includes a range of coursework in the areas of Language, Culture, and Literature, such as Translation, Latino/a Culture and Literature, Sociolinguistics, Language and Nationalism, and various topics in Latin American and Iberian Literature.
Your Resume
Our program helps you upgrade your skills and employability
Class Sizes
The program is small enough to foster a lively integrated community across our course and research options.
Demand
With an increasing demand for English as a Second Language (ESL) teachers, our graduates will continue to have a wide variety of career possibilities.
Find out More about TESOL Spanish M.A.
Tell us more and we'll send information on how you can succeed with a graduate degree in TESOL Spanish from the University of Northern Iowa College of Humanities, Arts & Sciences.
 | Juan Carlos Castillo, Ph.D Graduate Program Coordinator (319) 273-6200 |
Career Opportunities
Recent graduates have gone on to the following careers:
- Teach Spanish or English at community colleges or in intensive English programs.
- Teach English abroad, particularly in Spanish-speaking countries.
- Work in social services or the public sector.
- Upgrade skills and employability for teaching in K-12 settings.
- Go on to Ph.D. programs in Second Language Acquisition, Applied Linguistics, TESOL, Hispanic Linguistics, and other related fields.
Courses & Curriculum
Our program is a full-time, on-campus program and offers a non-thesis option only. Our core classes can be:
- Second Language Acquisition
- Bilingualism and Bilingual Education
- Computer Assisted Language Learning
- English Grammar.
The Spanish side of the program includes a range of coursework such as:
- Translation
- Latino/a Culture and Literature
- Sociolinguistics
- Language and Nationalism
- Various topics in Latin American and Iberian Literature/Culture.
The TESOL component of this M.A. program requires successful completion of a teaching portfolio and presentation at a UNI-sponsored or other professional conference/symposia as specified by the TESOL/Applied Linguistics faculty.
The Spanish component of this M.A. program requires successful completion of a final written comprehensive examination, as specified by the Spanish faculty.
Next Steps
Apply Now
Our application process is smooth and easy. You can apply now and pay your fee later or even get it waived, if you qualify. Current or former UNI students will also have their app fee waived.
Requirements for Admission
- Official transcripts from all institutions attended
- Statement of Purpose
- Two letters of recommendation (in Spanish or English)
- Writing sample in Spanish
- 2.75 is the minimum GPA to be accepted without provision; applicants with a GPA lower than 2.75 may still be admitted provisionally
- Application fee (this can be waived or deferred, see if you qualify).
Although the program has rolling admissions and admits students for both Fall and Spring semesters, applications must be on file by February 1st for full admission and funding consideration.
Requirements for International Applicants
Along with the basic application requirements, international applicants also need:
- Proof of English proficiency
- A copy of the personal data page of your passport
- A completed UNI Financial Statement and Certification form
- Non-refundable application fee.
Students may be required to take additional English language improvement courses at the discretion of the TESOL/Applied Linguistics faculty.
Marine Pepanyan, international student from Armenia, recent Ed.D. graduate
"In TESOL/Spanish, I acquired the necessary knowledge for teaching learners of a second language. After graduating from UNI, I easily found a job in the University of Central Missouri's IEP program. The TESOL/Spanish program created a solid foundation for my future studies and career growth. Go Panthers!"
Juan Carlos Castillo, Ph.D.
During the spring 2023 semester, UNI students in the Translation for Heritage Speakers had the chance to put their skills to use in real-world scenarios, thanks to some unique assignments from Associate Professor of Spanish Linguistics Juan Carlos Castillo.
Fund Your Degree
Our students may be assigned teaching or research-related positions; these include a range of opportunities relevant to the student’s area of study, such as working for individual professors on projects or working for UNI’s Culture and Intensive English Program (CIEP). Visit one of the following pages to learn more about funding or additional details on TESOL Spanish at University of Northern Iowa College of Humanities, Arts, & Sciences.