Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) (Distance Learning) (Online)PGCert

You'll have 24/7 access to the online course so you can study flexibly around your commitments. Benefit from the expertise of a world top 30 English Language and Literature department (QS World University Rankings 2024) without leaving home. The PGCert can be completed in 18 months and after successfully completing the course you can choose to continue onto the MA TESOL by Distance Learning. 

Course structure

The course runs over 18 months part-time. There are several course start dates available – October, December, February, April or July.  

You can study at your own pace and in your own time on this flexible distance learning course. You'll self-study over 18 months using interactive course materials created by our experts in linguistics. 

• Choose from multiple start dates throughout the year.
• Study online and develop your career without leaving your job.
• Access electronic resources through our library e-resources to support you studying online.
• Apply real-world insights to the classroom as you learn. 

Study on your own timetable

Our distance learning course fits perfectly around your other commitments. Explore different approaches to teaching and learning English. You’ll study both theory and practice which you can immediately apply to the classroom.

You'll join a global online community of teachers of English. We'll support you throughout the PGCert. You’ll have a personal tutor who will provide advice and answer questions along the way. You can meet fellow students and staff at our optional summer schools in Birmingham or Japan. 

• Virtual learning environment course materials: including aims and objectives, reading lists, summaries of readings, activities and commentaries, discussion and reflection tasks, and details of assignments.
• Resources are uploaded in advance so you can complete activities and take part in discussions whenever suits you. 
• Course handbook introducing you to the team, so you know who to contact if you have any questions or need guidance during the course.
• Consult academic staff in Birmingham via Zoom.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

The following must be taken:

Students will be required to complete one option from those available. An indicative list of options is provided in the list below:

You should have, or expect to get, a 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject like English Language or Linguistics.

If you don't have a 2:1 Honours degree, we’ll also consider equivalent professional experience or a Certificate in Education from a Teacher Training College (three-year course). Please include details of your current and/or previous employment in your application.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification. You'll need to have an IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any band or equivalent.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 22 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 67 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 176 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

This programme is charged per module.

Fees for 20-credit modules for students starting from October 2024 - July 2025: £1,260 per module

Fees for 20-credit modules for students starting from October 2025 - July 2026: £1,304 per module

Students who start between October 2024 and July 2025 will continue to pay module fees at the rates shown here throughout the duration of this course. An invoice will be issued for each module, at the time that you register onto that module.

A fee is also payable for the dissertation (worth 60 credits) and this is charged at the applicable rate for the academic year in which it is submitted. As a guide, dissertation fees are £3,912 for October 2025 entry.

Paying your tuition fees

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

Application deadlines for this programme are as follows:

• Entry point: 1 October – application deadline 1 September
• Entry point: 1 December – application deadline 1 November
• Entry point: 1 February – application deadline 1 January
• Entry point: 1 April – application deadline 1 March
• Entry point: 1 July – application deadline 1 June

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.