Columbia International University’s Master of Divinity in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages will provide you with a comprehensive range of biblical-theological knowledge and practical skills for ministry leadership in a variety of contexts. Through a personalized curriculum tailored to your needs, this program will prepare you for effective ministry in local churches, para-church organizations or mission agencies.
In addition to the core objectives of the Master of Divinity degree, if you have a passion for teaching English to non-native speakers, the TESOL specialization within this program is perfect for you. This specialization will provide you with excellent training in helping individuals gain proficiency in the English language. Whether your desire is to teach in a language institute or university in China or the Middle East or to serve in the public school system in the United States, this program will equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge.
As a student in the Master of Divinity program, you will learn to:
Analyze and synthesize the foundational content, context and themes of the Old and New Testaments. With an emphasis on God’s historical-redemptive mission as revealed through Scripture’s metanarrative and exemplified in the Great Commission, you will gain a deep understanding of the biblical text and its relevance to contemporary issues in both individual and corporate contexts.
Engage with contemporary global challenges, exploring orthodox belief and practice by drawing support from key biblical passages that undergird foundational doctrines. By applying insights from the history of global Christianity to 21st-century issues, needs and challenges, you will develop a well-rounded perspective and be equipped to address them effectively.
Understand cultures and worldviews from a biblical perspective. This will serve as the foundation for your ability to engage in effective, biblically contextualized ministry that equips and encourages others to grow as disciples and disciple-makers, whether it be in the church, mission field or marketplace.
The Master of Divinity in TESOL program also places a strong emphasis on the application of biblical principles, techniques and paradigms to various areas of ministry, including leadership, pastoring, preaching, teaching and counseling. Through hands-on experiences and practical assignments, you will develop the necessary skills and attitudes to minister effectively in these areas.
At Columbia International University, we offer you the flexibility to pursue your Master of Divinity in TESOL either face-to-face on our beautiful campus in Columbia, South Carolina, completing the program in one academic year, or through our cutting-edge interactive online format. The online courses, each spanning eight weeks, are designed to accommodate your schedule while providing a rich learning experience. You will have the opportunity to study alongside other students in a cohort, learning from recognized experts in the field.
Throughout the program, you will engage in courses focused on linguistics, syntax, teaching methods and other areas essential for becoming an excellent English teacher. Our goal is to equip you with the necessary tools and strategies to make a lasting impact in the lives of non-native English speakers.
Come to Columbia International University and embark on a transformative journey in the Master of Divinity in TESOL program. Whether you choose to study on campus or online, we are committed to providing you with a comprehensive education that combines biblical principles, practical skills and a global perspective. Prepare yourself for a rewarding ministry in teaching English and sharing the love of Christ with individuals from diverse linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
Campus • Online
Campus – January 3, 2025
Online – January 13, 2025
75
Seminary & School of Counseling
ATS, ABHE, SACSCOC
Campus Program Courses
Online Program Courses
Admission Requirements
Cost & Aid
Study under seasoned professionals who possess a wealth of experience in teaching English both internationally and in North America.
Through engaging lectures, interactive discussions and hands-on experiences, you will have the opportunity to learn from these seasoned professionals who have a deep passion for teaching and a heart for equipping others.
Teach English to speakers of other languages around the world and in North America.
In addition to the undergraduate core and other related courses, here is a glimpse at a few of the courses you will be taking in this program.
For a full list of courses related to this program, visit the Academic Catalog at one of the options below:
This course explores alternative methods and techniques for teaching listening, speaking, and pronunciation to K-12 and adult English Language Learners (ELLs) at various levels of proficiency. It includes theoretical foundations, and students will design their own lesson plans that are contextually applicable in a variety of instructional settings.
This course is an introduction to the principles and practices of English language teaching. It examines the theories and practices of language teaching and learning in general, and English language teaching and learning in particular, focusing on research-based practices and strategies for teaching K-12 as well as adult English language learners. Students will also learn the principles of curriculum development and assessment for language programs.
This course is an introductory survey of some of the major areas of linguistics. It is intended to inform the student of how language works at different levels and how those levels interact with one another. This course covers Phonetics (the study of speech sounds), Phonology (the sound systems of individual languages), Morphology (the origin and structure of words), Semantics (how words make meaning), Pragmatics (language in its context), Sociolinguistics (language in society), and the History of English. It does not include Syntax since that is covered in a separate course.
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