Master of Arts (TESOL)

The Master of Arts (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) is designed to meet the demand of degree holders for a postgraduate degree in TESOL.

This program aims to facilitate the development of disciplinary knowledge on second language acquisition, focusing on the area of teaching English to speakers of other languages; equip prospective teachers with the basic, intermediate and advanced tools for classroom practice in the area of TESOL; explore in-depth, current theories and pedagogy in second/foreign language teaching; critically investigate classroom issues related to teaching TESOL; critique second/foreign language teaching methodologies, discuss research trends in the field of teaching English as a second/foreign language and, enable students to explore and apply research methods and skills in TESOL.

Upon successful completion, you will be awarded from Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak.


Our Swinburne Advantage

The MA (TESOL) programme complies with the Australian Qualifications Framework and is accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Register. It is taught by highly qualified and experienced lecturers trained in Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom. Classes are conducted via blended delivery. Students will able to complete the masters within two years (4 semesters). Each semester is 13 weeks long and students will only need to be on campus for 3 weeks per semester during the Malaysian school holiday period to accommodate working adults/practising teachers. Weekly online discussions and tutorial sessions are conducted via Canvas learning management system to keep track of student progress. The programme also includes four units which are conducted fully online, giving students the ultimate flexibility to learn and study at their own pace and convenience.

Note: Students are also enrolled for the Graduate Certificate of Learning and Teaching units (beginning with EDU), which are completed online.


Duration of study

The duration of study is two years full-time or equivalent part-time. Full-time students will undertake four units of study per semester or eight units per year whereas part-time students may take two units per semester. One semester will be dedicated to students carrying out their own original research (MAT6105).

Each semester consists of 13 weeks and there are two semesters per year. Each unit consists of 24 face to face contact hours and 12 online contact hours. In addition to formal class time, students are expected to participate in peer teaching sessions to give them an opportunity to experiment with language teaching techniques and critically evaluate them, as well as conduct real-life classroom teaching for relevant practical units.


Career opportunities

The Master of Arts (TESOL) program prepares students to become English language teachers at schools, universities and private education institutions, to work as course advisers, course designers, teacher trainers, or to set up private education businesses. It also lays a sound foundation for those who are interested in conducting research in language teaching and learning.