Postgraduate Diploma/Master of Arts In Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)

The Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language [MA(TESL)], which commenced in 2005, was the first English Language Teaching (ELT) postgraduate qualification to be offered within the Sri Lankan university system. Over the years MA(TESL) has provided theoretical and practical training to ELT practitioners in a wide range of contexts ranging from English lecturers in the state and non-state university system to teachers at primary and secondary levels in state and non-state schools. The program has also produced a rich body of authentic research in many teaching and learning contexts in Sri Lanka.

The changing student profile and the theoretical and practical advances in English Language Teaching have led to this new-look TESL program. The most unique feature of this new programme is its three-part structure. Under this structure, the program is offered at three levels: MA(TESL), M(TESL) and PGD(TESL).

• MA(TESL) is an academically oriented qualification that retains the research-oriented focus of the original MA(TESL) but with greater emphasis on bridging theory and practice. This 2-year MA includes a thesis.
• M(TESL) is a more professionally oriented Masters level qualification by coursework for ELT practitioners who require the theoretical and hands on practical exposure to teaching English as a second language without an explicit research focus. This is a 1-year MA by coursework.
• The PGD(TESL) allows a flexible option for those who seek professional development and certification in ELT – particularly those seeking to take on English Language Teaching as a career.

All three programmes include a practicum, and a portfolio compiled by the students.