Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages and Spanish

Proficiency in modern languages can help you to gain a competitive edge in the global jobs market. In both the private and public sectors there is demand for professionals with strong language skills who can work in culturally diverse environments.

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages around the world both in terms of the numbers of speakers, and the global geographical spread. On this degree you will be absorbed into the everyday use of foreign languages as our multi-cultural community includes academics from all over the world, British, exchange and international students, and foreign language assistants. Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is a practical branch of applied linguistics and our focus is on helping you put the skills you learn to practical use in the world of work. Our TESOL experts will help you understand language learning and teaching approaches, as well as the English language itself. You will develop a new understanding of different types of communication and other cultures.

Staff across the department are nationally, and in many cases internationally, recognised experts in their field. With extensive experience in both private and public sector roles, our languages team offer a range of expertise in working across disciplines such as professional interpreting and translating, language teaching, and global consultancy. With such strong local, national, and global links, our languages team are continuously recognised in the field for their innovation. Initiatives include the globally recognised FLAME project integrating film, language, and media in education, and Manchester Voices.

As part of your degree you will have the opportunity to take the internationally recognised Trinity Cert TESOL teaching qualification, one of only two globally recognised TESOL qualifications. Combining this qualification with the skills you’ll develop throughout your degree will prepare you for the world of work, equipping you for your future career and/or study.

Our Spanish studies students are required to spend a year abroad in Spain. The experience of being immersed in another culture for several months is one our students find both beneficial and rewarding. They return having made new friends, experienced new places and having grown in confidence.*

This course has a foundation year available.

*Period of residence abroad will take place in a Spanish-speaking country and will be subject to any international travel restrictions and/or availability.

Features and Benefits

• As part of your programme, you will have the opportunity to take the internationally recognised Trinity Cert TESOL teaching qualification. This professional qualification is one of only two certificates recognised by leading TESOL employers across the globe. Undertaking the qualification ensures you complete the degree with classroom ‘teaching practice’ experience and will set you apart from the competition when applying for jobs.

• Enhance your employability through internships and volunteering - our award-winning ‘Rise at Manchester Met’ programme encourages you to learn career-ready skills beyond the focus of your course.

• Access the Language Centre to gain vital employability skills in TESOL from experienced and highly qualified TESOL professionals, delivering a range of classes to international students and international partners of the University.

• The majority of our 30+ academic, research and support staff are native speakers of French, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese and Japanese.

• Our TESOL academic staff have extensive experience teaching across various regions in the world, including Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. The team also have research experience, successfully delivering the international projects for sector-leading institutions.

• You will spend your third year abroad in Spain, allowing you to develop your language skills and immerse yourself in the culture.