Career Aspects of Graduate Training in ESL

Abstract

This article reports the results of a survey of Master's degree graduates in ESL from the University of Hawaii. From the responses of 137 graduates, we learn that the first positions and current positions for a substantial majority were in ESL teaching, primarily full-time, both in the United States and abroad. Other duties included administration, materials preparation, and curriculum design. Information is provided on the respondents' areas of employment, number of students per class and semester, and salary levels. Employment status, salary for first position after receiving the M.A. degree, and year of graduation were more important than sex in determining the respondents' current salaries. The respondents reported that the training they received in their M.A. program helped either a great deal or to a very great extent. A revised questionnaire is proposed to serve as a model for future surveys. The results are useful not only to administrators and faculty in ESL professional preparation programs, but also to those contemplating enrolling in an M.A. program.