Searching for the best affordable Bachelor’s in ESL (English as a Second Language) degree programs makes aspiring teachers stay on budget. Cheap ESL degree options keep tuition reasonable to attract linguistically talented students of all economic backgrounds. English as a Second Language majors learn how to adapt PreK-12 curriculum for non-native speakers. Demand for ESL educators is growing fast as the United States gets increasingly diverse. In Fall 2018, the Pew Research Center reported that 9.5 percent of public school pupils, nearly 5 million kids, are learning English. Seventy-seven percent of ESL students speak Spanish as their first language. Other common languages are Arabic, Chinese, Vietnamese, Nepali, and Somali. Two-thirds of ESL students are in grades PreK-5 and fluent before high school. However, nearly 68 percent of America’s 13,506 school districts also have secondary ESL services. Each of these schools need patient, caring ESL teachers to welcome immigrant children with open arms. Affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree plans will prepare you to help youth assimilate into our multicultural society.
Our Methodology
Affordable Schools researched low-cost ESL degree programs by accessing the free NCES College Navigator tool for an advanced search. We used the browse button to select the “Teaching English as a Second or Foreign Language” category. Our staff checked the box for bachelor’s degrees at public and private non-profit colleges. Our results turned up 50 teacher training schools to consider. Next, we focused on the affordability of each college’s 2018-19 tuition and fees. We only paid attention to the average in-state cost of attendance for full-time undergrads. Non-resident prices are merely mentioned for your own comparison. We created a rubric to grade higher learning institutions by in-state expenses. High-value ESL teaching degree majors charging $7,500 or less were preferred.
Points:
Under $7,500 – 5 Points
$7,500 to $15,000 – 3 Points
$15,001 and above – 1 Point
Then, the AS Staff reviewed student-faculty ratios on the National Center for Education Statistics website. Student-faculty ratios indicate the class size at affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree programs. The ratio shows how many undergrads there are per professor. Lower numbers, such as 10:1 or less, are linked to smaller bachelor’s cohorts. Small teacher preparation courses are crucial to avoid blending into the back row. English as a Second Language majors need to actively engage in class activities, including mock lessons. Schools with low student-faculty ratios make it easier for future ESL teachers to connect with mentors. Faculty are readily available to offer advice on anything from field practicum to portfolio development. Smaller classes are also easier to take on overseas cultural immersion trips. Thus, our second rubric awarded one to three points to the best-value ESL teaching degree programs.
Points:
10:1 or less – 3 Points
11:1 to 15:1 – 2 Points
Greater than 15:1 – 1 Point
Lastly, Affordable Schools looked at the U.S. Department of Education’s statistics on graduation rates. We sought out inexpensive English as a Second Language degree options with good student outcomes. Graduation rates are one key way to measure whether pre-service teachers will succeed. This percentage out of 100 tells how many undergrads finish in four to six years. High graduation rates imply that more aspiring ESL educators are satisfied and supported. The teacher’s colleges provide adequate training resources to get through the rigorous curriculum and Praxis tests on time. Big graduation rates can also suggest that the campus climate is beneficial. There are likely more opportunities for ESL majors to get involved, practice their skills, and experience new cultures. Universities with strong student production usually have the highest quality teaching. Our team gave another one to three points for graduation rate and added up the totals. The top 30 scores became our best affordable Bachelor’s in ESL teaching degree picks.
Points:
More than 50 percent – 3 Points
Between 30 percent and 50 percent – 2 Points
Less than 30 percent – 1 Point
Ranking the 30 Best Affordable Colleges for ESL (English as a Second Language) Teaching Degrees
30. Hawaii Pacific University
Honolulu, HI
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Hawaii Pacific University is our website’s 30th best accredited college for ESL teaching degree programs with a $27,000 universal price. At Waterfront Plaza, the College of Liberal Arts accepts $55 applications on a rolling basis to enter the cost-effective B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages for Hawaii’s TESOL certification with a 15:1 student-faculty ratio. Chaired by Dr. Mark Tjarks, the 120-credit, WASC-approved curriculum ends with a 15-week practice teaching internship after courses like Digital Literacy and Languages of the Pacific. Sharks can also attend the Ko’olau Writers Workshop, access the TESOL Working Paper Series, join United Nations Club, and travel to Rabat.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $27,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,000
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 47 percent
29. Concordia University-Saint Paul
St. Paul, MN
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Concordia University-Saint Paul features the AS Staff’s 29th most affordable college for ESL teaching degree majors with a $22,800 annual cost. At Poehler Hall, the College of Education admits B.A. in English as a Second Language Education cohorts with an average 3.18 GPA to earn the Minnesota K-12 endorsement for 95 percent job placement. Managed by Dr. Sally Baas, this low-cost, 120-credit, CAEP-accredited pathway fills three 14-week trimesters with courses like Adolescent Developmental Psychology and Reading Assessment each year. Golden Bears may also engage in the Global Language Institute, intern with Minneapolis Public Schools, visit Peru, and add the Early Childhood Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in English as a Second Language Education
In-State Tuition: $22,800
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,800
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
28. Lee University
Cleveland, TN
Total Points: 5
Program Website
Lee University is Affordable Schools’ 28th best accredited university for ESL teaching degree options with a $22,650 yearly total. At the Vest Building, the Department of Language & Literature provides a top-value B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from a Church of God perspective for PreK-12 licensure with 57 percent graduation. Mentored by Dr. Christopher Blake, the 120-credit, SACS-accredited plan mandates minimum 2.75 GPAs during courses like Exceptional Children and Cognitive Linguistics before the 15-week student teaching. Flames might also become Kairos Scholars, summer in Colombia, tutor in the English Language Center, and join Sigma Tau Delta.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $22,650
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,650
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
27. Goshen College
Goshen, IN
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Goshen College is our 27th best affordable accredited university for ESL teaching degree programs with $34,540 tuition for everyone. At Newcomer Center, the English Department awards a cost-effective B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages to satisfy Indiana’s Grades K-6 or 5-12 licensing requirements with a 100 percent satisfaction rate. Administered by Dr. Jessica Baldanzi, the 120-credit, HLC-approved sequence builds atop the Goshen Core with 16-week classes from Communications Across Cultures to Children’s Literature. Maple Leafs may also receive the $3,000 Anglemyer Award, attend the S.A. Yoder Lecture Series, intern with Parkside Elementary, and tour Paraguay.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $34,540
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,540
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
26. Doane University
Crete, NE
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Doane University scored the 26th spot among our affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree studies with a $34,500 in-state rate. At Gaylord Hall, the College of Arts & Sciences offers a high-value B.A. in English as a Second Language with an optional K-12 Teacher Endorsement from a Christian worldview for 65 percent six-year graduation success. Overseen by Dr. Pedro Maligo, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited program can integrate 300 practicum and 14-week teaching assignments into Crete courses from Intermediate Writing to Social Stratification. Tigers could also attend the Lucille Cobb Lecture Series, venture to East Africa, engage with Project SERVE, and continue for the Online M.Ed.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in English as a Second Language
In-State Tuition: $34,500
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,500
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
25. Concordia University-Nebraska
Seward, NE
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Concordia University-Nebraska made our top 25 affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree paths with a $34,200 price tag. At Thom Center, the Department of Education delivers a cost-effective B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages rooted in Lutheran values to unlock Nebraska’s K-12 ESL endorsement for a 100 percent career outcomes rate. Directed by Dr. Vicki Anderson, the 120-credit, CAEP-accredited bachelor’s spans eight 16-week semesters of courses like Second Language Acquisition and Beginning Mandarin plus field practicum. Bulldogs can also teach in Hong Kong, volunteer with People’s City Mission, become Luke Scholars, and pursue the TESOL Master of Education.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $34,200
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,200
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
24. Bluffton University
Bluffton, OH
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Bluffton University wins 24th place in our affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree programs with a $33,952 yearly average. At Centennial Hall, the English & Language Department bestows a best-value Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Major (B.A.) with an optional TESOL Endorsement track aligned to Ohio PreK-12 standards for 65.9 percent freshman retention. Coordinated by Dr. Cynthia Bandish, the 120-credit, HLC-accredited major covers courses from Phonics to Modern Literature Studies with at least one 30-hour practicum. Beavers could also journey to Guatemala, enter the Naomi Brenneman Essay Contest, attend the English Festival, and earn the 3+1 MAEd.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $33,952
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,952
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
23. Niagara University
Niagara Falls, NY
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Niagara University is crowned our 23rd most affordable college for ESL teaching degree plans with a $33,700 attendance cost. At the Academic Complex, the College of Education presents a cost-effective Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Concentration for B.A. in English and B.A. in Liberal Arts majors seeking New York’s initial PreK-12 certification with an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. Outlined by Dr. Chandra Foote, the 120-credit, CAEP-accredited Catholic sequence has two 60-hour assistantships and a 14-week teaching placement plus courses like Phonology. Purple Eagles may also engage in the Family Literacy Center, utilize the Humber M.S. Partnership, and visit Vietnam.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in English – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Concentration
Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Concentration
In-State Tuition: $33,700
Out-of-State Tuition: $33,700
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 71 percent
22. Multnomah University
Portland, OR
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Multnomah University is Affordable Schools’ 22nd best-value ESL teaching degree provider with universal tuition of $28,030 yearly. At Sutcliffe Hall, the Global Studies Department has offered a top B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages since Fall 2008 for freshmen holding a minimum 2.5 GPA to pursue non-licensure careers with an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. Organized by Dr. Greg Burch, the economical,120-credit, Christ-centered curriculum has NWCCU approval for 15-week Portland courses like Teaching Oral Communication and Grammar. Lions can also teach at Japan’s English Bible Camp, take the Israel trip, engage in the Multicultural Center, and earn the Voices Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $28,030
Out-of-State Tuition: $28,030
Student-Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
21. Indiana Wesleyan University
Marion, IN
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Indiana Wesleyan University landed 21st among our best affordable Bachelor’s in ESL teaching degree opportunities with a $27,296 value. At Elder Hall, the Division of Modern Language & Literature bestows a non-licensure B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and a B.S. in TESOL Education for Indiana P-12 certification with 66 percent completion. Developed by Dr. Roberta Henson, the low-cost, 120-credit, HLC-accredited tracks share some 15-week courses like English Pedagogy and Methods of Teaching before diverging for practicum. Wildcats could also enter the John Wesley Honors College, travel to Zambia, join La Amistad Hispánica, and be Language Lab tutors.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Bachelor of Science in TESOL Education
In-State Tuition: $27,296
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,296
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 66 percent
20. Lancaster Bible College
Lancaster, PA
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Lancaster Bible College begins the AS Staff’s top 20 affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree majors with a $26,690 annual total. At Charles Frey Center, the Education Department delivers an inexpensive B.S. in Intercultural Studies & Biblical Studies for TESOL Education or a Dual 4+1 B.S./M.Ed. in Early Childhood Education/English as a Second Language with 76 percent retention. Led by Dr. Stacey Martin, the Christ-centered, ABHE-accredited options require 126 to 160 credits of 16-week Lancaster courses like Instructional Design and Emergent Literacy. Chargers can also intern with Fritz Elementary, receive ACSI certification, exchange to San Lorenzo, and join the Missions Fellowship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Education – Early Childhood Education/English as a Second Language
Bachelor of Science in Intercultural Studies and Biblical Studies – TESOL Education
In-State Tuition: $26,690
Out-of-State Tuition: $26,690
Student-Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
19. Oklahoma Christian University
Oklahoma City, OK
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Oklahoma Christian University houses our 19th best affordable ESL teaching degree pathway with a flat-rate annual tuition of $24,550. At the Mabee Learning Center, the Language & Literature Department has a 13:1 student-faculty ratio for a B.A. in English/Teaching English as a Foreign Language that prepares instructors of non-native speakers. Arranged by Dr. Gail Nash, the top-value, 126-credit, HLC-accredited curriculum blends more than 200 hours of field experience with courses like Intercultural Communication and Introduction to Linguistics. Eagles might also take the Academy of Alternative Certification, pledge Sigma Tau Delta, tutor in the Writing Center, and get the Rose Taylor Scholarship.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in English/Teaching English as a Foreign Language
In-State Tuition: $24,550
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,550
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
18. Southern Adventist University
Collegedale, TN
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Southern Adventist University is lauded our 18th most affordable college for ESL teaching degree studies with a $22,060 cost. At Brock Hall, the School of Arts & Sciences upholds Proverbs 19:21 by preparing English B.A. majors in the TESOL Concentration to fulfill God’s purpose of educating English language learners for 89 percent job placement. Chaired by Dr. Keely Tary, the low-cost, 124-credit, non-licensure sequence has AAA accreditation for Collegedale courses like Ancient Classics and Young Adult Literature with 150 internship hours. Majors may also join Writers Club, mentor in the English as a Second Language Program, semester in Sao Paulo, and become LifeGroup coaches.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in English – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Concentration
In-State Tuition: $22,060
Out-of-State Tuition: $22,060
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 52 percent
17. Utica College
Utica, NY
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Utica College stands as Affordable Schools’ 17th best cost-effective ESL teaching degree option with a sticker price of $21,560. At Gannett Memorial Library, the School of Health Professions & Education customizes a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (Birth-Grade 12) track for B.A. in English majors to achieve a 96 percent NYS certification pass rate. Advised by Dr. Kathleen Cullen, the inexpensive, 128-credit, CAEP-accredited concentration has courses like Cultural Minorities and Practice of ESL before a 16-week mentored internship. Pioneers can also join the Harold Frederic English Society, win the Nassar Poetry Prize, study overseas in Krakow, and finish the Dual M.S. Degree.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in English – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Education
In-State Tuition: $21,560
Out-of-State Tuition: $21,560
Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Graduation Rate: 54 percent
16. Minnesota State University Moorhead
Moorhead, MN
Total Points: 6
Program Website
Minnesota State University Moorhead snagged the AS Staff’s 16th spot for low-cost ESL teaching degree studies that charge a cheap $7,631 in-state. At MacLean Hall, the College of Humanities & Social Sciences bestows a B.S. in Teaching English as a Second Language with a 100 percent MTLE pass rate for certified Minnesota and North Dakota K-12 practice. Designed by Dr. Linda Houts-Smith, the 120-credit, CAEP-accredited bachelor’s requires 2.5 or better GPAs during courses like Speech Communication and Ethics to reach student teaching. Dragons could also choose the TESL Certificate, engage with Bridges International, volunteer at CHARISM Community Center, and explore Egypt.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Teaching English as a Second Language
In-State Tuition: $7,631
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,262
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 49 percent
15. Johnson University
Knoxville, TN
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Johnson University kicks off our top 15 affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree pathways with a $16,400 annual average. Founded in 1979, the Templar School of Education provides an inexpensive B.S. in Elementary Education with an ESOL Endorsement for Tennessee K-5 certification or a B.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies – English as a Second Language Education (PreK-12) major. Overseen by Dr. Roy Miller, these SACS-accredited bachelor’s entail 149-152 credits of courses from Language Arts Methods to Shakespearean Tragedies before capstone senior practicum. Royals might also add the Translation Certificate, earn the $1,000 ESL Scholarship, join First GEAR Club, and declare Honors.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies – English as a Second Language Education
Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with ESOL Endorsement
In-State Tuition: $16,400
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,400
Student-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
14. Moody Bible Institute
Chicago, IL
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The Moody Bible Institute is our 14th most affordable university for ESL teaching degree majors that bill $13,290 per year anywhere. At Fitzwater Hall, the Intercultural Studies Department delivers a cheap B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages from a Christian worldview to train non-licensed overseas English instructors with 58 percent on-time completion. Arranged by Dr. Brad Baurain, the 127-credit, HLC-accredited map covers 16-week Near North Side courses like Missionary Relationships and Phonetics with a full-time internship. Archers can also utilize the $10,000 Chicago Tuition Grant, join Mu Kappa, travel to China, and serve in the National School Project.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $13,290
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,290
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 58 percent
13. Kent State University
Kent, OH
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Kent State University holds the AS Staff’s 13th space among affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree training priced $11,131 in-state. At Satterfield Hall, the College of Arts & Sciences confers a Teaching English as a Second Language B.A. where freshmen with an average 1130 SAT and 23 ACT score develop pedagogical skills for 91 percent job placement. Coordinated by Dr. Robert Trogdon, the cost-effective, 120-credit, HLC-approved track leads to TEFL certification with courses like Lexicology and Adult Language Acquisition plus 70 fieldwork hours. Eagles may also join Sigma Tau Delta, earn the Dubois Writing Award, practice at the Kent ESL Center, and teach in Bhutan.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language
In-State Tuition: $11,131
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,007
Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Graduation Rate: 60 percent
12. Ohio State University
Columbus, OH
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The Ohio State University is Affordable Schools’ 12th most economical ESL teaching degree program with $11,084 in-state tuition. At Arps Hall, the College of Education & Human Biology utilizes $22 million in funding to serve 4,076 undergrads across 19 B.S.E. majors, including Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (K-12), for 92.8 percent retention. Headed by Dr. Alan Hirvela, this high-value, 123-credit, CAEP-accredited path has a January 15th deadline for Fall cohorts to start courses like Reading Foundations and prepare for 15-week internships. Buckeyes could also engage in the Literacy Collaborative, pursue the M.Ed. in English, co-teach in Oaxaca, and work in Nisonger Center.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Education – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $11,084
Out-of-State Tuition: $32,061
Student-Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Graduation Rate: 84 percent
11. Stony Brook University
Stony Brook, NY
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Stony Brook University is the AS Staff’s 11th best affordable accredited college for ESL teaching degree programs with a $10,175 in-state value. At the Social & Behavioral Sciences Building, the Linguistics Department considers Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages B.A. candidates with minimum 3.0 GPAs until April 15th and November 15th for 42 percent admission. Outlined by Dr. Marie Huffman, the cheap, 128-credit, MSCHE-accredited plan fulfills New York’s K-12 licensing with courses from Literacy Development to Syntax and teaching practica. Seawolves can also pick the Five-Year B.A./M.A., join Linguistics Club, access the Semantics Lab, and winter in Jamaica.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $10,175
Out-of-State Tuition: $27,844
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 74 percent
10. Southwest Minnesota State University
Marshall, MN
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Southwest Minnesota State University ranked 10th in our affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree programs with an $8,908 in-state total. At the Individualized Learning Center, the Education Department allows upper-division undergrads with GPAs above 2.80 to declare a B.S. in Teaching English as a Second Language major for Tier 3 K-12 state licensure. Directed by Dr. Sonya Vierstraete, the inexpensive, 120-credit, HLC-accredited sequence has a 46 percent six-year completion rate for courses like Instructional Strategies and Cultural Diversity. Mustangs might also student teach in Marshall Public Schools, join EMSP Club, exchange to Malaysia, and add a 12-credit Autism Certificate.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Teaching English as a Second Language
In-State Tuition: $8,908
Out-of-State Tuition: $8,908
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 46 percent
9. Winona State University
Winona, MN
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Winona State University is our list’s ninth most affordable college for ESL teaching degree studies that incur $8,698 in-state per year. At Minne Hall, the English Department launched a BS in Teaching English as a Second Language where undergrads with 2.75 GPAs and a 100 percent MTLE Basic Skills Test pass rate will receive K-12 Minnesota certification. Mentored by Dr. Ethan Krase, the cheap, 120-credit, HLC-accredited program culminates with 15 student teaching weeks after 400-level major courses like Multicultural Youth and Classroom Management. Warriors may also journey to Barcelona, tutor in the Writing Center, access Krueger Library, and join the Aspiring Educators Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Teaching English as a Second Language
In-State Tuition: $8,698
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,798
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
8. University of Wisconsin-River Falls
River Falls, WI
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Wisconsin-River Falls is the AS Staff’s eighth pick in affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree options with $8,038 in-state fees. At Kleinpell Fine Arts Center, the English Department enrolls Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages B.A./B.S. majors into non-licensure and K-12 TESOL Endorsement tracks with a 22:1 student-faculty ratio. Architected by Dr. Marshall Toman, the high-value, 120-credit, HLC-approved bachelor’s lasts eight semesters with courses like Pedagogical Grammar and Techniques in Tutoring. Falcons can also teach in Taiwan, engage in the Daegu Gyeongbuk English Village Project, join the Literary Society, and use the Online Writing Lab.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Bachelor of Science in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $8,038
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,611
Student-Faculty Ratio: 22:1
Graduation Rate: 57 percent
7. University of Northern Iowa
Cedar Falls, IA
Total Points: 7
Program Website
The University of Northern Iowa has our seventh best affordable Bachelor’s in ESL teaching degree paths that bill $7,665 in-state annually. At Bartlett Hall, the Department of Languages & Literatures confers a cheap Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages B.A. and Dual TESOL/Spanish Teaching B.A. to pursue Iowa’s K-12 endorsement with 65 percent graduation success. Administered by Dr. Jim O’Loughlin, the HLC-accredited options span 123-131 credits of courses from Bilingualism to Human Relations plus 16-week school placements. Panthers could also win the Whittle Scholarship, join the Council of Teachers of English, serve in Mexico City, and engage in the Jacobsen Center.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Bachelor of Arts in TESOL/Spanish Teaching
In-State Tuition: $7,665
Out-of-State Tuition: $18,207
Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Graduation Rate: 65 percent
6. Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Laie, HI
Total Points: 7
Program Website
Brigham Young University-Hawaii is the AS Staff’s sixth best affordable university for ESL teaching degree majors to pay $7,627. At McKay Hall, the Faculty of Education & Social Work provides a non-licensure B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and professional B.A. in TESOL Education for Hawaii K-12 certification with selective 36.8 percent acceptance. Led by Dr. Perry Christensen, the inexpensive, 120-credit, WASC-accredited Mormon program integrates classes like Syntax and Teaching Vocabulary with a 15-week internship. Seasiders may also subscribe to The TESL Reporter, pick the Linguistics Minor, join the Kiribati Student Association, and experience Ecuador.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages Education
In-State Tuition: $7,627
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,627
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 63 percent
5. University of Hawaii at Manoa
Honolulu, HI
Total Points: 8
Program Website
The University of Hawaii at Manoa starts the top five affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree plans with $11,304 in-state expenses. At Moore Hall, the College of Languages, Linguistics & Literature has granted a BA in Second Language Studies and Five-Year BA+MA Pathway since Fall 2011 to produce English instructors with a 12:1 student-faculty ratio. Chaired by Dr. Graham Crookes, this best-value, 120-credit, non-licensure bachelor’s has WASC approval for 15-week Honolulu courses like Language Testing and Discourse Analysis plus its field practica. Warriors might also research in Charlene J. Sato Center, attend the Global Teaching Institute, travel to Tokyo, and join Ohana Club.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Second Language Studies
In-State Tuition: $11,304
Out-of-State Tuition: $34,218
Student-Faculty Ratio: 12:1
Graduation Rate: 59 percent
4. Salisbury University
Salisbury, MD
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Salisbury University finished fourth with an affordable distance education ESL teaching degree that costs $10,044 per year in-state. Online on Canvas and at Holloway Hall, the Department of English presents a hybrid B.A. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages with a 68 percent graduation rate for achieving Maryland’s K-12 ESOL Endorsement. Managed by Dr. Melissa Bugdal, the cheap, 120-credit, MSCHE-accredited sequence mandates a 2.75 GPA minimum in courses like Inclusive Instruction and Content Area Literacy plus the three-part internship. Sea Gulls can also semester in Ghana, attend Writers on the Shore, join Delta Gamma, and pursue the M.Ed. in Reading Specialist.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English for Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $10,044
Out-of-State Tuition: $20,110
Student-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Graduation Rate: 68 percent
3. Eastern Washington University
Cheney, WA
Total Points: 8
Program Website
Eastern Washington University wins the AS Staff’s third place among affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree majors with a $7,461 in-state rate. At Patterson Hall, the College of Arts, Letters & Education welcomes this best-value Teaching English as a Second Language B.A. cohorts with minimum 2.70 GPAs until August 15th or February 15th for 63 percent admission success. Organized by Dr. Gina Petrie, the 120-credit, NWCCU-accredited track doesn’t satisfy state P-12 licensure with courses like Linguistic Classroom Diversity and its 60 practicum hours. Eagles could also add the Japanese Minor, utilize the Veteran Waiver, exchange to Universitat Passau, and engage in Project H.O.P.E.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language
In-State Tuition: $7,461
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,074
Student-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Graduation Rate: 44 percent
2. SUNY College at Oswego
Oswego, NY
Total Points: 9
Program Website
SUNY College at Oswego is Affordable Schools’ second best high-value ESL teaching degree provider that charges $7,070 in-state. At Park Hall, the School of Education provides a B.S. in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages where undergrads with minimum 3.0 GPAs develop Tk20 portfolios and conduct 12-month clinical residencies for NYSED K-12 licensure. Overseen by Dr. Pamela Michel, the cost-effective, 124-credit, CAEP-accredited pathway has 16-week Upstate courses like Philosophy of Language and Semiotics with a 17:1 student-faculty ratio. Lakers may also join Linguistics Club, claim the Excelsior Scholarship, engage in the Urban Teacher Center, and teach in Paris.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages
In-State Tuition: $7,070
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,980
Student-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Graduation Rate: 64 percent
1. SUNY College at Cortland
Cortland, NY
Total Points: 9
Program Website
SUNY College at Cortland gets the top spot for affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree studies with a $7,070 in-state price tag. At Old Main, the Modern Languages Department bestows a Teaching English as a Second Language Major (B.A.) to train public and private K-12 school educators for New York State certification with a 71 percent graduation rate. Headed by Dr. Paulo Quaglio, the cheap, 120-credit, CAEP-accredited bachelor’s dives into courses like Critical School Health Issues and Bilingualism before the two eight-week teaching placements. Red Dragons might also join Education Club, attend the Second Language Educators Conference, visit Venezuela, and minor in French.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language
In-State Tuition: $7,070
Out-of-State Tuition: $16,980
Student-Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Graduation Rate: 71 percent
Which Careers are Best with an Economical ESL Teaching Degree?
Graduating from affordable colleges for ESL teaching degree programs makes you eligible for many educational and language-related careers across the globe. For example, English as a Second Language instructors work at PreK-12 schools, colleges, and tutoring centers to teach non-native speakers. Adult literacy teachers ensure students over age 21 learn to read and write the English language proficiently. IELTS specialists oversee centers that provide the International English Language Testing System exam. Instructional coordinators create textbooks, lesson plans, and curriculum standards for ESL education. ESL directors play an administrative role in managing English as a Second Language programs and their staff. Foreign language teachers use their knowledge of dialects from Spanish to Latin to build communication skills. Linguists study the vocabulary and grammar of diverse languages as well as how they’re learned. Reading Recovery teachers provide early intervention services for at-risk elementary kids with developmental delays. Interpreters also translate spoken speech into another language that clients comprehend.
What is the Salary Potential After an Affordable Degree in ESL Teaching?
Finding cheap ESL teaching degree tracks is critical because this meaningful educational field is notoriously underpaid like most other specialties. In 2019, the National Education Association reported that average teacher pay dropped 4.5 percent last decade. Median starting educator wages are $39,249. Teachers are compensated 21.4 percent less than similar bachelor’s-level graduates. The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that preschool teachers earn just $34,410 on average. Kindergarten teachers reap mean earnings of $58,370. Elementary and middle school teachers are given a median $62,150 salary. Secondary school teachers earn slightly more at $64,230 per year. Special educators bring home average income of $61,610. Adult literacy teachers can expect a mean $58,110 profit. Self-enrichment education teachers are granted $44,960 on average. Substitute teachers fare worst with a $32,360 median yearly wage. Instructional coordinators receive a mean salary of $67,490. Interpreters report median pay of $49,930. School administrators, including ESL program directors, have the highest annual average of $97,030.
How is the Job Outlook for Cost-Effective ESL Teaching Degree Graduates?
Attending an affordable university for ESL teaching degree preparation will lead to an in-demand profession helping anyone from age 0 to 100 understand English. The $4,000 Federal TEACH Grant classifies English language learning and bilingual education as a high-need field. The Foundation for Economic Education expects there will be a shortage of 200,000 teachers by 2025! After all, more than 40 percent of teachers get burned out and change careers in five years. The U.S. Department of Labor predicts employment of elementary school teachers will rise 3 percent for 47,900 new jobs. Before 2028, kindergarten teachers will see 4 percent or 5,100 more positions. Hiring of preschool teachers will jump 7 percent for 36,900 openings. Middle school teachers can count on 3 percent growth to 637,100 total posts. Senior high schools will increase their faculty by 4 percent or 38,200. Adult literacy teaching jobs will plummet 10 percent for a 7,000 loss though. California, Nevada, Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico have the most ESL students. Choose from our affordable ESL teaching degree options above to start making a difference.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 30 best affordable ESL (English as a Second Language) teaching degree programs.
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