English Language & TESOL

Sabrina O'Neil
Oct 21
4 min read

English Language and TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) combines the academic study of the English language with practical teacher training. It focuses on linguistics, language analysis, and the methods used to teach English effectively to non-native speakers.

A Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English Language and TESOL provides students with both theoretical understanding and hands-on teaching experience. It prepares graduates to teach English in the UK or abroad, while developing advanced communication, intercultural, and analytical skills applicable across global industries.

Why Study English Language and TESOL?

There are many reasons why students choose to study English Language and TESOL:

A passion for language, linguistics, and communication.
The opportunity to gain professional TESOL training during undergraduate study.
Global demand for qualified English language teachers.
The chance to live, work, and teach abroad after graduation.
A blend of academic study, teaching practice, and cultural learning.
Clear career routes into education, linguistics, and international communication.

This degree suits students who enjoy language, teaching, and working with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

Course Duration and Structure

In the UK, a BA in English Language and TESOL typically takes three years of full-time study, or four years with a placement year, foundation year, or study abroad option.

A typical course structure includes:

Year 1: Introduction to linguistics, grammar, and phonetics. Students explore how language works, its structure, and its social context.

Year 2: Intermediate study in applied linguistics, second language acquisition, and English teaching methodology. Students often complete micro-teaching or supervised classroom observation.

Year 3: Advanced modules in language pedagogy, curriculum design, and language assessment. The final year includes a dissertation or teaching-related project based on independent research.

Many universities offer TESOL certification or teaching placements, allowing students to gain recognised qualifications during their degree.

Entry Requirements

Entry requirements vary between universities but typically include one of the following:

A Levels: In English Language, English Literature, or a Humanities subject.
BTEC: A relevant Extended Diploma in Humanities, Communication, or Education.
International Baccalaureate (IB): Including English at Higher Level.
Other qualifications: Access to Higher Education Diploma in English, Linguistics, or Education.
English language proficiency: Required for applicants whose first language is not English.
Experience in tutoring, volunteering, or working with international learners is advantageous.

Teaching and Assessment

English Language and TESOL degrees combine linguistic study with practical teacher training and classroom observation. Students learn through:

Lectures and seminars
Language workshops and tutorials
Micro-teaching and peer feedback
Group projects and case studies
Independent research and dissertation work

Assessment methods typically include:

Essays and linguistic analyses
Oral presentations and lesson planning
Reflective teaching journals and reports
Examinations and coursework

A final dissertation or applied TESOL project

Some courses include placements or teaching opportunities through partnerships with schools or language centres in the UK or overseas.

Skills You Will Develop

A degree in English Language and TESOL develops strong linguistic, teaching, and communication skills, including:

English language structure and analysis
TESOL theory and teaching methods
Lesson planning and classroom management
Phonetics and pronunciation training
Intercultural communication
Linguistic research and data analysis
Critical thinking and problem-solving
Public speaking and presentation skills

These skills are valuable for careers in education, communication, linguistics, and international work.

Career Prospects

Graduates of English Language and TESOL degrees are highly employable both in the UK and internationally.

Typical career paths include:

English language teacher (UK or overseas)
Foreign language assistant or trainer
Academic coordinator or curriculum developer
Education officer or international programme manager
Translator or interpreter
Speech and language assistant
Further study in applied linguistics, education, or TESOL at postgraduate level

Employers include schools, language institutes, universities, NGOs, and international education providers such as the British Council.

Tips for Prospective Students

Gain experience tutoring or volunteering with English language learners.
Read widely about language learning and linguistics before starting your degree.
Practise public speaking and communication skills.
Learn a foreign language to understand second-language learning from the learner’s perspective.
Join professional networks such as IATEFL (International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language).
Explore teaching opportunities abroad during university holidays or study abroad years.

Course Variations

Universities offer several related and specialist degrees, including:

English Language and Linguistics: Focusing on the structure and use of English.
TESOL and Applied Linguistics: Concentrating on second-language acquisition and pedagogy.
English Language and Education Studies: Linking teaching theory with language study.
English Language and Communication: Emphasising language in media and professional contexts.
Modern Languages and TESOL: Combining English teaching with study of foreign languages.
Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL): Focused primarily on professional training.