MA in English Language Learning

Master of Arts English Language Learning/English as a Second Language (PreK-12)

Degree Overview

Our online master’s in ELL education will turn you into a leader. The M.A. in English Language Learning/English as a Second Language (PreK-12) will prepare you to teach effectively in ELL or ESL settings and to provide curricular leadership to your school and school systems. You will become a vital asset for your school.

Who the program is for:

• Licensed teachers with bachelor’s degrees who are interested in ELL or ESL instruction.
• Community college teachers who work in ELL or ESL settings.
• District instructional personnel and curricula leaders.
• "Emergency credentialed" ELL or ESL teachers who need the endorsements to be considered highly qualified.
• Individuals who can typically spend 15 or more hours per week on their studies.

IMPORTANT: This program is not for those who want to learn to speak and write the English language. This program is also not for those interested in becoming English teachers or teaching English in a foreign country. The program can lead to an endorsement in ELL or ESL, but only in those states that have such endorsements. If your state offers an ELL endorsement and you wish to pursue that endorsement, you will need to complete your practicum at the K-12 level that aligns with your state endorsement requirements and the WGU ELL PreK-12 program. Students who complete their practicum in any other setting other than a K-12 setting should be prepared NOT to be recommended for licensure. Each student should be aware of the requirements of their particular state for K-12 educators. See the list of states with ESL or ELL endorsements.

Note: WGU is the first exclusively online university to receive NCATE accreditation for its degree programs that lead to teacher licensure, a testament to the fact that WGU graduates "have the knowledge and skills to be effective in helping all students learn."

This program will be flexible and adaptable to your schedule. Click here to learn more about how your program works.

What You’ll Learn -- Areas of Study:

In this online ESL master’s degree, you’ll learn all the essential skills and knowledge needed. This program includes two domains of study and completion of a capstone project.

• English Language Learning
• Research Fundamentals

Total Program: 39 Competency Units (credit equivalents)

More details about your challenging course of study

View the Program Guide (PDF)

Answers to your questions
Click a question, see the answer below.

• Will my state recognize my degree?
• How will I complete my program?
• Is financial aid available?

Will my state recognize my degree?

Yes, provided your state offers ESL or ELL endorsement. (See which states offer ESL or ELL endorsement.) The WGU Teachers College currently serves over 5,000 students throughout the United States. Our master’s degrees are accepted as innovative, leading-edge, credible programs. All teaching programs at WGU are also NCATE-accredited. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor for more details. You can also learn more about WGU’s Student Success and Performance Data.

How will I complete my program?

As a WGU student, you take and complete assessments. You’ll prepare for your assessments by engaging various learning resources including textbooks, web tutorials, and courses. You will determine what learning resources are best for you in consultation with your mentor using your personalized Degree Plan. You can learn more by exploring the WGU Experience. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor who can explain this program in greater depth.

Is financial aid available?

Yes, WGU offers federal financial aid. Loans are available to most students, regardless of financial need. Grants that don’t require repayment are also available for those with financial need. You can check into your financial aid eligibility at any time during the admissions process. Speak to an Enrollment Counselor to learn more or visit the Financial Aid section of the website.