Is English as Second Language a Hard Major? What Students Should Know in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Many students wonder if majoring in english as second language is particularly difficult, often assuming it requires mastering complex linguistic theories and teaching methods.

While challenging, the field is growing steadily; U.S. institutions report a 12% increase in enrollment for ESL-related programs over the past decade, reflecting rising demand for qualified educators and specialists in diverse classrooms.

This article explores the academic rigor of esl majors, including typical coursework, workload expectations, and essential skills like language analysis and cultural sensitivity. Understanding these factors helps students gauge how their background and learning style might influence the difficulty they experience in this field of study.

Key Benefits of English as Second Language as a Major

English as second language majors develop strong communication and cultural competence, aiding career changers in transitioning smoothly into education or social services.
This major supports full-time workers by offering flexible learning formats and practical skills that enhance teaching and linguistic analysis capabilities.
Traditional undergraduates gain academic rigor and confidence through specialized coursework, preparing them for diverse professional opportunities in global contexts.

Where Does English as Second Language Rank Among the Hardest College Majors?

National rankings that assess college major difficulty typically emphasize factors like workload intensity, the necessity for technical or analytical expertise, and the extent of practicum, laboratory, or fieldwork hours.

Majors in STEM fields-such as engineering, physics, and mathematics-rank highest due to demanding assignments and extensive technical skills. In comparison, english as second language majors usually involve less rigorous quantitative work and fewer hands-on practicum hours.

For instance, while engineering students might dedicate over 15 hours weekly to assignments and projects, those studying ESL often average about 10 hours per week, focusing more on applied linguistics and teaching methods than laboratory or clinical experiences.

Difficulty perceptions for english as second language programs vary considerably depending on the institution and student background. Some programs require more practical teaching experience, making the major more challenging for those lacking prior exposure to linguistics or second-language acquisition theories.

Compared to nursing or mathematics-majors widely viewed as more demanding-ESL is generally less intensive in both time commitment and technical complexity. It aligns more closely with other education and humanities majors in terms of workload.

Ultimately, how hard a student finds english as second language depends on personal skills, language proficiency, and academic preparation, highlighting the subjective nature of difficulty rankings.

What Factors Make English as Second Language a Hard Major?

English as second language can be a challenging major for many students due to its specific academic and skill-related demands. The complexity of mastering advanced language skills while navigating college-level coursework contributes significantly to these difficulties.

Key factors that illustrate the academic rigor in English as a Second Language programs and highlight the challenges of ESL curriculum for college students include:

Academic Rigor: This major requires proficiency in academic reading, writing, listening, and speaking at levels comparable to native speakers. Students must comprehend complex texts and articulate sophisticated arguments in an academic context, which demands a high level of intellectual engagement and precision.
Time Commitment: Heavy workloads come from extensive reading, frequent writing assignments, and consistent language practice. Many curricula also involve additional workshops or tutoring to aid proficiency development, intensifying the overall time investment.
Technical and Analytical Complexity: ESL students engage deeply with literature, linguistics, and cultural studies. This involves critical thinking and applying linguistic theory while overcoming the unique challenge of functioning in a non-native language environment.
Unique Field Demands: Navigating the "rigor gap" is a distinct challenge in this major. Students learning English often face uneven academic preparation and pressures to seek equitable learning opportunities, which can affect confidence and academic performance.

For students looking for supplementary support beyond the standard curriculum, several certificate programs that pay well may provide valuable skill enhancements relevant to ESL studies and related fields.

Who Is a Good Fit for a English as Second Language Major?

Identifying who succeeds in English as a second language programs helps prospective students gauge if their traits align with the demands of this major. Understanding the best traits for ESL major students supports better academic engagement and career readiness.

Empathetic Communicators: These students excel by connecting with diverse groups and understanding cultural nuances. Their interpersonal skills help them support language learners facing barriers, making coursework and real-life applications more meaningful.
Curious Learners: A natural curiosity about how language is acquired and used fuels motivation and a positive attitude, key attributes linked to success in ESL programs. They enjoy exploring linguistic theories and problem-solving challenges presented in their studies.
Self-Directed Technologists: Those comfortable with using digital tools such as podcasts, language apps, and online resources often achieve higher proficiency. Engaging actively with technology outside the classroom enhances their learning outcomes.
Multicultural Backgrounds: Students with experience in diverse environments or who have learned a second language themselves better relate to challenges faced by English language learners, strengthening their empathy and instructional skills.
Patient and Resilient Individuals: Patience and self-confidence help students navigate complex communication dynamics and persist through difficult material. These traits promote steady progress in mastering language and cultural concepts.

For students exploring majors, considering these personal qualities alongside academic interests can be insightful and supportive. More information is available on easy online degrees to get.

How Can You Make a English as Second Language Major Easier?

Students often find an english as second language major demanding due to the need to master multiple language skills simultaneously and manage heavy coursework. However, adopting effective strategies can significantly lighten this academic load and improve success rates.

Build a Strong Foundation Early: Focus on core grammar, vocabulary, reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills from the start to boost confidence and simplify advanced tasks.
Create a Daily Study Habit: Setting aside regular time for study promotes steady progress and helps prevent last-minute stress.
Engage with Multimedia Tools: Using podcasts, videos, and language apps offers exposure to real-world usage and enhances memory retention.
Seek Consistent Feedback: Regular input from instructors, peers, or tutors helps spot weaknesses and fosters faster improvement.
Adapt to Your Learning Style: Knowing whether you learn best visually, auditorily, or kinesthetically allows tailoring study methods for better results.

When I spoke with a graduate who majored in english as second language, she described how initially managing all language skills felt overwhelming. She shared that "it was confusing trying to improve reading, writing, and speaking at once without a clear plan."

Over time, she experimented with different techniques until she found that keeping a daily study journal and using language apps tailored to her learning preference made a huge difference. "Having a routine gave me a sense of control," she explained.

Regular meetings with tutors provided valuable insights where she struggled most, which "helped me focus my efforts more effectively." Reflecting on her journey, she emphasized that persistence combined with strategic adjustments was key: "Making the major easier wasn't about shortcuts but about discovering what worked best for me."

Are Admissions to English as Second Language Programs Competitive?

Admissions to English as second language programs in the United States are generally not very competitive. Most institutions maintain high acceptance rates due to large applicant pools and program availability, with many schools accepting over 70% of applicants.

While demand is steady, these programs usually do not require outstanding academic records or exclusive prerequisites, making entry more accessible compared to highly selective degrees.

Selectivity can vary depending on the institution's rigor and focus. Some programs expect a minimum GPA and foundational coursework in education or linguistics. Experience teaching or learning languages may benefit applicants but is not always mandatory.

As interest in ESL grows and visa policies impact international enrollment, certain urban or prestigious schools may see increased competition and stricter English proficiency benchmarks.

When I spoke with a professional who completed an english as second language major, he shared that applying was straightforward but involved thoughtful preparation. "I gathered my transcripts and took care to highlight any relevant teaching experiences," he recalled.

He explained that although acceptance felt assured, meeting language proficiency requirements was a significant step, and balancing application timelines brought some anxiety. Ultimately, his journey reinforced that while admissions are generally manageable, dedication and organization remain key to success.

Is an Online English as Second Language Major Harder Than an On-Campus Program?

Online English as second language programs are generally neither harder nor easier than traditional on-campus courses; the level of difficulty varies based on individual learning styles and program structure.

The challenge largely depends on a student's motivation and readiness for independent study rather than inherent differences in content or academic standards.

When comparing online and on-campus ESL programs, several factors influence the student experience:

Academic Expectations and Workload: Both formats typically maintain similar rigor and pacing, requiring consistent study and engagement to succeed.
Technical Anxiety and Learning Environment: Online learners may face hurdles with technology use and lack of physical classroom presence, which can increase stress for some students.
Self-Directed Learning: Success in online ESL degrees versus traditional classroom settings often relies on strong time management and self-discipline, as direct guidance is less immediate.
Interaction and Support: Reduced in-person contact online can lead to feelings of isolation, impacting motivation, especially for those who benefit from peer collaboration.

Research shows students completing all online coursework tend to achieve comparable proficiency in speaking, listening, reading, and writing as their face-to-face peers.

Interestingly, some studies indicate online learners may even outperform classroom students in vocabulary retention and engagement when actively using available resources.

For students seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality, exploring options like the low cost online associate degrees can be a practical choice.

The decision between an online ESL degree vs traditional classroom study should consider personal learning preferences and the ability to manage independent study demands effectively.

Breakdown of All 2-Year Online Title IV Institutions

Source: U.S. Department of Education, 2023

Are Accelerated English as Second Language Programs Harder Than Traditional Formats?

Accelerated English as second language programs are generally harder than traditional formats due to condensed timelines, faster pacing, and a heavier workload.

These factors can lead to a more intense learning environment that some students find overwhelming or stressful. Comparing accelerated ESL programs vs traditional ESL programs reveals distinct differences in course structure and student experience.

Key challenges of intensive English language courses versus traditional formats include:

Course Pacing and Content Density: Accelerated programs require covering the same material in less time, often with daily classes and minimal review, while traditional courses allow more gradual learning.
Workload Management: Students balancing jobs, family, or other classes may struggle with the demanding schedule of accelerated programs, whereas traditional formats offer more flexibility.
Academic Expectations and Skill Demands: Faster pace increases cognitive load, requiring quick adaptation; traditional courses promote steady skill development.
Learning Retention and Stress Levels: The accelerated format can reduce retention due to limited repetition and increase fatigue, while traditional programs support deeper understanding and less stress.
Flexibility and Daily Structure: Traditional programs provide more predictable schedules helping balance commitments; accelerated courses often have less room for personal planning.

While accelerated ESL programs can benefit highly motivated students ready to invest significant effort, most find them more difficult than traditional options. Those interested in pursuing fast educational paths with solid financial outcomes might explore quick degrees that make good money as part of their planning.

Can You Manage a Part-Time Job While Majoring in English as Second Language?

Students majoring in english as second language can often handle part-time work alongside their studies, though success depends on several factors. The intensity of courses, including language labs, reading assignments, and project deadlines, greatly affects how manageable this balance is.

Flexibility in class schedules, such as access to evening or online courses, also plays a crucial role. Personal study habits and overall workload shape whether students can maintain both commitments effectively.

Balancing part-time employment with an english as second language major typically involves careful time management and strategic course selection. Students who opt for lighter credit loads or flexible jobs like tutoring or online teaching tend to find this balance more achievable.

The discipline's mix of technical exercises and cyclical project deadlines can create peaks of academic demand, making some periods more challenging.

Many utilize campus resources, such as writing centers and tutoring, to maintain performance while working. Those with less adaptable schedules or heavier workloads may prioritize academics by cutting back on work during busy times.

What Jobs Do English as Second Language Majors Get, and Are They as Hard as the Degree Itself?

Career paths for English as second language graduates vary in difficulty, responsibility, and required skills. While some jobs align closely with the rigor of the major, others may be less demanding or challenging in alternative ways.

ESL Teacher: Teaches English language learners in K-12 schools, community programs, or private institutes. This role requires lesson planning, assessment, and adapting to students' needs. It is generally as demanding as the major, especially in public schools where workload and accountability are high.

University ESL Instructor: Works at colleges or universities, sometimes combining teaching with research or curriculum development. The position can be as rigorous as graduate school, with pressures to publish and participate in committees, though it offers more academic autonomy.

Private Tutor: Provides individualized or small-group instruction, often emphasizing conversation skills or test preparation. This work tends to be less demanding than the major, offering more flexibility and fewer administrative duties, but income can be less stable.

Online ESL Teacher: Delivers remote lessons globally, requiring adaptability to digital platforms and strong technology skills. This role is demanding differently, with flexible hours but the need to engage students without face-to-face interaction.

Curriculum Developer: Designs instructional materials and language programs for educational institutions or ed-tech companies. This intellectually challenging role draws on both theory and creativity while involving less classroom stress and more project-based work.

Given the diverse opportunities, the ESL teacher career paths and salary depend on the specific job and setting. For those exploring jobs for English as Second Language graduates in the United States, these roles emphasize communication, cultural sensitivity, and adaptability.

Prospective students considering related advanced qualifications may find value in dual graduate degree programs that expand their expertise and career options.

Do English as Second Language Graduates Earn Higher Salaries Because the Major Is Harder?

There is no clear evidence that graduates with an English as second language major earn higher salaries because the major itself is more difficult. Earnings are influenced more by factors such as market demand, job roles, and the skills gained rather than academic rigor alone.

While some majors with technical or quantitative demands often lead to higher pay, ESL programs typically do not rank among the most challenging based on workload or GPA.

Instead, salary reflects the practical skills ESL graduates develop, including cross-cultural communication and language teaching. These skills align with the needs of various industries rather than the major's perceived difficulty.

Several factors shape the salary landscape for English as second language graduates. Industry demand plays a role; for example, public school ESL teachers generally earn less than those in private or international settings.

Job roles vary widely, with postsecondary instructors earning a median wage around $78,130, compared to about $54,954 for K-12 teachers. Geographic location also matters, with higher salaries in states like California and New York, sometimes exceeding $100,000 at the college level.

Additionally, education level impacts earnings, as teachers holding master's or doctoral degrees tend to earn more, showing that experience and credentials significantly influence salary.

What Graduates Say About English as Second Language as Their Major

Damian: "Pursuing english as second language was definitely challenging but incredibly rewarding. The coursework pushed me to understand language structures deeply, and although it's not the easiest major, the cost of attendance felt worth every penny given how it broadened my career opportunities in education and translation."

Harry: "Reflecting on my experience, english as second language was a tough major due to the complex theories and practical language skills required. However, it profoundly impacted my personal growth and opened doors to international job markets, despite the relatively high tuition fees which I managed with scholarships."

Louisa: "The major in english as second language may seem hard at first because of the detailed linguistic concepts, but my learning journey was well-supported by the faculty. While the average cost of attendance might be steep for some, the skills I gained have significantly boosted my professional qualifications and confidence in multicultural communication."

Other Things You Should Know About English as Second Language Degrees

What skills do students develop while majoring in English as Second Language?

Students majoring in english as second language gain strong communication and cultural awareness skills. They learn to analyze language structures, recognize linguistic diversity, and apply teaching methods to support learners from various backgrounds.

These skills are valuable in education, translation, and international communication roles.

Does an English as Second Language major require proficiency in multiple languages?

While proficiency in additional languages can be helpful, it is not always required to major in english as second language. The primary focus is on teaching English language skills and understanding linguistic principles rather than mastering multiple foreign languages.

Some programs, however, encourage or require knowledge of at least one other language to enhance cross-linguistic understanding.

Are there specific teaching certifications related to English as Second Language?

Yes, many programs prepare students to earn teaching certifications such as TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) or CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults).

Obtaining these credentials is often essential for employment in schools, language institutes, or international teaching positions.

Is there a practical component in English as Second Language programs?

Most english as second language majors include a practical teaching component or internship where students gain real classroom experience.

This hands-on training is critical for developing effective teaching strategies and understanding learner needs. It also helps students build professional networks for future employment.