The Department of Linguistics offers a Master of Arts in linguistics and the teaching English as a second or foreign language (TESL/TEFL). The program normally takes two years to complete and requires a thesis or research essay.
Admission to graduate study in linguistics requires no specific undergraduate preparation, but a background in English, foreign language, speech, psychology, mathematics, or philosophy is particularly relevant. Transcripts of all previous study must be submitted and must indicate strong promise of success in graduate study. Transcripts also must include evidence of two years of college-level study of foreign language. Admission is possible if you cannot meet this requirement, but it must then be satisfied by concurrent nondegree study. Nonnative speakers of English may use their study of English to satisfy this requirement. Teacher training and experience are desirable as preparation for native students intending to follow the TEFL/TESL curriculum. For nonnative applicants, both teacher training and an undergraduate major in English are recommended and a TOEFL score of 600 or higher is required.
While there is no specific deadline for submission of application materials, new applicants are normally admitted only in the fall quarter. Applicants for financial aid for the following academic year must apply by April 1.
A four-quarter sequence of courses in teaching English as a foreign language (TEFL) is available for graduate students from any field. The sequence includes courses in in linguistic theory and TEFL methodology: LING 550, 575, 580, and 582. It is offered every academic year and during the summer in odd-numbered years. Admission to the linguistics program is not required, but international students must have a TOEFL score of 575 or higher.
Validation to teach ESL in Ohio public schools is also offered (as an endorsement added to certification in another field); required courses are LING 550, 575, 581, 583, six credits of 510, and EDCI 505 or 508. A national specialty area test also must be passed. The program can be completed in two summers and does not require admission to the linguistics program.
Specific information about the programs and requirements is available from the chair, Department of Linguistics, Ohio University, Gordy 383, Athens OH 45701-2979.
University Publications and Computer Services revised this file (https://www.ohio.edu/~gcat/99-01/areas/cohi.htm) December 8, 2000.
Please e-mail comments or suggestions to "gcat@www.ohiou.edu."