Graduate School of Education
May 20, 2023 2026-09-18 8:03Graduate School of Education
Graduate School of Education
The Graduate School of Education brings together advanced study in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL), language education, applied linguistics, and educational research.
Its programs are designed for educators and professionals who want to deepen their understanding of how languages are taught and learned, strengthen their professional practice, or pursue research and leadership in language education. Study progresses from focused graduate-level coursework through master’s and doctoral education, allowing students to choose a level that matches their academic background and professional goals.
The School’s approach connects theory, research, and practice. Through online study, live interaction with faculty, and opportunities for collaborative learning, students examine current questions in language teaching while developing knowledge they can apply in educational settings around the world.
David Nunan TESOL Institute
Dr. David Nunan has played a central role in the development of TESOL education and in the history of the Graduate School of Education. A distinguished linguist, educator, author, and former President of TESOL International Association, he has spent decades working in language teaching, teacher education, applied linguistics, and online learning.
Dr. Nunan was the founding Dean of the Graduate School of Education and designed the Master of Arts in TESOL. He has also served as President of Anaheim University and continues to contribute to the institution as Senior Professor of TESOL and Director of the David Nunan TESOL Institute. His academic career has included teaching and leadership roles at institutions including the University of Hong Kong, Columbia University, the University of Hawaii, and the Monterey Institute for International Studies.
His influence extends beyond university teaching. Dr. Nunan is the author of widely used English language teaching textbooks published by Cambridge University Press, Oxford University Press, and Thomson Learning, and his work has contributed to the development of language education in diverse international contexts. He was also recognized by the United States House of Representatives for his pioneering work in online education at Anaheim University.
The School continues that tradition by combining research, language education, and professional practice in graduate TESOL programs designed for educators working in a wide range of international settings.
About the Graduate School of Education
Effective language education requires more than a collection of teaching techniques. It requires an understanding of how languages are learned, how educational decisions are made, how evidence can inform practice, and how teaching needs to respond to different learners and contexts.
The School’s TESOL programs bring together applied linguistics, language pedagogy, classroom practice, curriculum development, assessment, and research. Students examine established theories and current research while considering how they apply to real educational settings.
At the doctoral level, this work extends into research and educational leadership, preparing experienced educators to investigate important questions in TESOL and contribute to the development of language education.
A live class every week
Ninety minutes on webcam with the professor, in every course. Not recorded lectures.
One subject at a time
Nine-week courses, with a new one starting every ten weeks.
Entry from a bachelor’s
The graduate certificate needs a bachelor’s degree and a 3.0 GPA; the Ed.D. needs a master’s and four years’ experience.
Study from anywhere
Delivered online, with the residential sessions the Ed.D. and MA require.
Hear from TESOL Experts
Explore conversations and presentations from TESOL scholars and educators on language teaching, teacher education, research, and the issues shaping English language education around the world.
AU Ed.D. in TESOL intro
AU MA in TESOL intro
TESOL Certificate introduction
7
AU faculty and graduates elected TESOL President
Duke of Edinburgh
Prize awarded to the research of our vice president of academic affairs
99%
student satisfaction rate, 2025 program average
Accredited
by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and CHEA
Meet Our Faculty
Learn from experienced academics and professionals who bring subject expertise, research, and real-world perspective into the classroom.
Rod Ellis, Ph.D.
Vice President of Academic Affairs and designer of the Ed.D. in TESOL. His work was awarded the Duke of Edinburgh Prize.
David Nunan, Ph.D.
Director of the David Nunan TESOL Institute and designer of the MA in TESOL. Past President, TESOL International Association.
Hayo Reinders, Ph.D.
Chair of Research and Senior TESOL Professor in the Graduate School of Education.
Dr MaryAnn Christison
Past President, TESOL International Association.
Explore Our Schools & Institutes
Discover the schools and institutes behind each area of study and see how they connect across the University.
Talk to a TESOL Advisor
Not sure which TESOL program is right for you? Speak with an advisor to compare the Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma, MA, and Ed.D. pathways, discuss your academic background and professional goals, and find the level of study that best fits your next step.
