Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language

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What is Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language?

Linguistics and Teaching English as a Second Language (Linguistics + TESL) studies an overarching question: How do speakers of different languages learn, use, teach, and assess English as a second language (ESL)? Linguistics + TESL is an interdisciplinary program for students who plan to pursue careers in areas related to English as second and foreign language education. As a Linguistics + TESL major, you'll gain a solid background in both general linguistics and educational linguistics. You'll learn subject knowledge from multiple disciplines that help understand linguistics principles and linguistic developmental trajectories. You'll also receive a practical training in ESL/EFL teaching, assessment, and material development.

Career Options

Language teaching
Language testing
Material development
Government
Publishing
Translation
Technical or professional communication

Post-Graduation Success¹

89% employed or continuing education

42% employed after graduation

47% attending graduate school

$59,214 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (4), Elmwood Park High School (2), Epic Systems (2) View All

Sample grad school destinations: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois Chicago, University of Chicago View All

Program Resources

College of Liberal Arts & Sciences Program Webpage Degree Requirements

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

Demonstrated understanding of and interest in the major

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention²

4.0 years to degree

95% first-year retention rate

78% four-year graduation rate

89% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs³

Illinois Resident

Tuition: $12,992
Fees: $5,054
Expenses: $18,884
Total: $36,930

Non-Resident

Tuition: $33,344
Fees: $5,054
Expenses:$19,224
Total: $57,622

International

Tuition: $35,872
Fees: $5,054
Expenses: $19,224
Total: $60,150

Related Majors

Elementary Education (Grades 1-6) - EDU

English - LAS

Global Studies - LAS

Psychology - LAS

Secondary Education - LAS

¹ Post-graduate data was collected through the Illini Success initiative, which primarily relies on self-reported survey data sources. Statistics are aggregated from the past three years. Please note that total compensation may be greater than annual salary as other forms of compensation (e.g., signing bonus, commission, benefits) are not included. For more information on Illini Success data and methods, please visit the Illini Success website. For average wage or salary information five years after entry into an occupation, visit the Post-Secondary Employment Outcomes Explorer.

² Graduation and retention data comes from several majors within a similar interest area. Data may not yet be available for newly created programs. Years-to-degree data is only available for programs from which you can earn a degree. Retention and graduation rates are only available for programs that you can apply directly into. Retention rates reflect retention to the university, not necessarily retention within the major.

³ "Expenses" are estimated and include books, supplies, housing, and other living expenses. The exact amount you’ll pay depends on where you decide to live, the meal plan you choose, and your overall lifestyle. To learn more about costs, please visit the Office of Student Financial Aid website. To learn the average monthly student loan payment over a period of 20 years based on estimated cost, visit the Illinois College2Career website.