Course Overview

About This Course

The Graduate Diploma in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) is designed for TAFE or Vocational Education teachers whose employers require them to have an in-depth qualification. This program is also for experienced educators looking for a higher specialist qualification in ESL teaching. The Graduate Diploma in TESOL offers sound theoretical and empirical foundations and extensive practical skills that address the broader aspects of education and training. This degree will provide you with the skills to teach the English language to students, with a focus on international and local contexts and catering for diversity in the classroom. In addition to exploring second language learning theories and research, teaching methods, and pedagogical grammar, you will also undertake a supervised professional experience placement in an ESL classroom.

Eligibility

Entry Requirements

Requirements

A three-year undergraduate degree, preferably including subjects related to the teaching of English (e.g., TESOL, English Literature, Applied Linguistics).
No teaching experience is required.
Admission to UOW is primarily based on academic qualifications; work or life experience is generally not considered.
Domestic applicants with overseas qualifications must provide academic records, and the course must be at least one-sixth complete; non-English documents must include an official English translation.
All UOW courses are taught in English; if English is not your first language, you must meet the University's English Language Requirements.
Accepted international English test results include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, Cambridge, and OET (for specific health-related courses); alternatively, you can fulfill the requirement by completing an English course at UOW College.
This course includes a total of 30 hours of compulsory work-based placements, completed over 13 weeks.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

TESOL programs are suitable for qualified classroom teachers in public or private schools, as well as those who want to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) through private colleges, refugee support groups, and other support agencies.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Accreditation Details

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

AITSL (for teaching pathway) / NEAS (for ELICOS)

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

AITSL / VETASSESS

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the Graduate Diploma in TESOL designed for?

The Graduate Diploma in TESOL is designed for TAFE or Vocational Education teachers whose employers require them to have an in-depth qualification, as well as experienced educators looking for a higher specialist qualification in ESL teaching.

Is there a work placement component in this course?

Yes, this course includes a total of 30 hours of compulsory work-based placements, completed over 13 weeks, which involves a supervised professional experience placement in an ESL classroom.

Can I study the Graduate Diploma in TESOL entirely online?

Yes, subjects are a combination of online and on campus delivery, with the option of completing your study entirely by distance.

What are the fees for the Graduate Diploma in TESOL?

The indicative course fee for a full-fee paying place at the Wollongong campus is $25,879 for 2026. However, in 2026, domestic students may be eligible for either a Commonwealth supported place (CSP) or a UOW-subsidised fee reduction of up to 75% off the listed fees.

Is the Graduate Diploma in TESOL accredited or professionally recognised?

Yes, the University of Wollongong is recognised by the Department of Education (DE) as a provider of EAL/D qualifications for primary/secondary trained teachers, though DE accreditation will be dependent upon subject choice.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

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