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World Languages and Linguistics and ESL
Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's
Degrees
BA in World Languages and Linguistics +MEd in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
At a Glance
The demand for world language and ESL teachers is only getting stronger, and TCNJ’s new dual-degree program will put your career on the fast track. This five-year (4+1) accelerated bachelor’s to master’s program prepares you to become a certified K–12 teacher in your language specialty (French, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish) and in English as a second language. You’ll receive a BA in world languages and linguistics while taking three graduate ESL courses , and then you’ll continue on to TCNJ’s School of Graduate, Global and Online Education to complete a master’s degree in TESL. The added multilingual certifications will open doors to even more career opportunities.
Program Coordinators: Ann Warner Ault, warner@tcnj.edu (World Languages) and Yiqiang Wu, wuyiqian@tcnj.edu (TESL)
Accelerated/Dual-Degree Program Options
Get a jumpstart and enter the workforce with a master’s degree. Accelerated options get you there faster and more affordably through fewer semesters of classes. Dual degrees offer a streamlined path to earning two degrees, often with direct admission to the graduate portion.
World Languages and Linguistics + Teaching English as a Second Language, BA/MEd + NJ certifications in your world language and ESL teaching (4.5–5 years)
If you’ve already earned your bachelor’s degree or are a current TCNJ student, you can still pursue an MEd in TESL or the TESL initial certification as a stand-alone option. All current TCNJ students can double-count two graduate courses toward their undergraduate degree.
You’ll Benefit From:
- Undergraduate study abroad at universities around the world (scholarships and financial aid apply)
- Graduate online and summer study options
- Real-world teaching experience in diverse classroom settings
- Student teaching available at universities around the globe
- Courses that double count for undergraduate and graduate requirements
- Full scholarships for student teaching courses and additional stipends in some districts
- Fees waived for ACTFL language-proficiency tests and certification application
Teaching Careers
Graduates of this program are in high demand in both U.S. and international K–12 schools. There is also a growing need for ESL and world language teachers right here in New Jersey, with some districts offering signing bonuses of up to $7,000, and others providing stipends for student teachers. Beyond teaching, this degree opens doors to positions in curriculum development, education leadership, research, and more. The skills you’ll gain will set you up for leadership roles in world language/ESL education and will also enable you to teach English abroad. Whether you’re passionate about teaching language learners, working in diverse classrooms, or gaining leadership roles in ESL education, this program will set you on the path to success.
