Below are some frequently asked questions about completing the MA TESOL degree through the Japan Center for Michigan Universities. 

A: The per credit hour program fee for the TESOL graduate courses for 2022-23 is $950/credit hour, so $2,850 for a 3-credit course. Please note that this rate may change over time, though it will remain in place for at least the next full programming year (September 2022 to August 2023).  We have not yet set housing fees for the summer session.

A: The courses in fall and spring semesters are accessible online from across Japan. The summer intensive course will have some online materials, but will be held primarily in person in Hikone.

A: If students take two courses per semester and a summer course, the program can be completed within three years.  Students have up to six years to finish all requirements for their degree.

A: MA students do not need to designate an advisor.

A: Personal statements should convey your experiences and how you will benefit from the program. For more advice, there are many online resources available (e.g. https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/job_search_writing/preparing_an_application/writing_the_personal_statement/index.html)

A: A GRE score is not required for application or acceptance into the program. If English is not your first language, you may find our language proficiency requirements on the program Admissions page.

A: List your permanent address in the United States if you have one and are applying for U.S. financial aid (this requires you to be a U.S. citizen). If you do not have a U.S. address, simply use your address in Japan.

A: It can be completed in Japan.  You may attend classes in Michigan, but you would have to pay standard on-campus tuition rates.

A: This program is designed to fit around a full-time teacher’s schedule. All classes are offered in the evenings after 6pm, asynchronously, or in mid-August in Hikone.

A: Tentative courses and modalities:

Year 1: Fall

  • LLT 822 (Interlanguage Analysis): Time offered: asynchronous
  • LLT 895 (ESL Classroom Practices): Taught at JMCU Hikone and via Zoom; Time offered: 6:30-9:30pm 

Year 1: Spring

  • LLT 807 (Introduction to Language Teaching Methods): Taught at JMCU Hikone and via Zoom Time offered: 6:00-9:00pm
  • LLT 860 (SLA): Taught online from 8am-9:30am (EST) from MSU on T, Th (Spring)