Graduates with a masters degree in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) generally have little trouble finding careers in an array of positions related to English as a Second Language. MA-TESOL recipients often thrive in their careers, whether they choose to stay within the United States or work in a foreign country. While there are many career paths available to MA-TESOL graduates, these five careers stand out in terms of being both fulfilling and lucrative.

ESL Instructor

Due to the high demand to learn English, teaching jobs are always available at virtually all age levels. Instructors also have the option of traveling abroad to teach English in other countries. Most ESL instructors have at least a Bachelor’s degree in conjunction with an ESL certification. A master’s degree is required to teach at the college level. The salary for ESL teachers is dependent on several factors, specifically the level at which the instructor is teaching.

Salary: vary by country, but a full-time ESL instructor normally earns between $20,000 and $50,000.

Instructor of Non-ESL Program

Upon receiving a master’s degree in TESOL, some graduates opt to teach cultural or language-related courses that are not in the ESL field. Having a master’s degree broadens job opportunities, giving graduates the flexibility to teach in other departments, such as English, Writing, or the Social Sciences. Similar to ESL instructors, the salary is dependent on grade level and experience.

Salary: Instructors teaching at the K-12 level will earn around $45,000, while college-level instructors earn an average salary of $80,000.

ESL Program Director

ESL program directors are responsible for the coordination and management of the ESL program. This includes administrative duties, such as creating course schedules, and supervising employees. Compared to ESL instructor openings, there are usually far fewer ESL director positions available on the job market. However, director positions are more competitive, thus making them very attainable for MA-TESOL graduates. The minimum qualifications for directors almost always include a master’s degree in TESOL and experience working within ESL programs.

Salary: The average starting salary is $40,000 – $60,000.

Academic Adviser

Academic advising is a great career path for those who enjoy helping and working with students. In the ESL field, advisers provide much-needed guidance to international students. Although an adviser’s primary responsibility is helping students plan their coursework to suit their educational goals, they may also help international students integrate into American culture. Academic advising is a very important aspect of ESL programs, so job openings are usually abundant. A master’s degree is usually required with a TESOL specialty preferred.

Salary: On average, academic advisers start off at approximately $40,000 annually.

Textbook or Materials Writer

TESOL graduates may choose to write ESL textbooks and other instructional materials, rather than teach. Technical writing careers tend to be highly lucrative choices for MA-TESOL graduates. Job opportunities are growing at a steady rate, and advances in electronic communications are making it possible to live and work in different parts of the world. Most technical writing careers require at least a master’s degree, as well as exemplary writing skills.

Salary: Writers can initially expect to earn an annual salary of $50,000 – $70,000.

Once you have your qualification, there’s a wide range of rewarding careers available to MA-TESOL graduates. To help you find your next job, take a look at the association’s official website on careers for anyone seeking ESL employment: careers.tesol.org.