Dhofar University recently received the approval from  the Ministry of Higher Education to offer a Master's degree in 'Curriculum and Instruction: Teaching English Language' which is a two-year program that aims to prepare effective teachers and practitioners to teach the English language according to international standards and contemporary thought in the field. The program of study consists of a series of specialization courses in language acquisition, second language teaching and learning, assessment and evaluation, design and production of educational materials, in addition to core courses in educational psychology, research design and methodology, and the foundations of education.  In addition, the program requires the students to prepare professional portfolios and perform practical work and research in the field.  Dr. Hussein Yaghi, Dean of the College of Arts and Applied Sciences explained: "Admission to the Master's in Curriculum and Instruction is a competitive field and requires the candidate to a have a bachelor's degree in the English language, English literature, or translation (English-Arabic) from a recognized university in the Sultanate of Oman. Candidates are also required to pass an English entrance exam that includes all English language skills, or present an official certificate showing that they have passed the IELTS exam with a Level 5 score or higher, a paper-based TOEFL score of 500 or higher,  or the equivalent. Priority will be given to those who have the highest scores in the entrance exam, the IELTS or TOEFL, and in their undergraduate degrees." Dr. Yaghi added, "The program may be completed in two years normally; however students may complete the degree in less time if they take more than four courses per semester, or more time if they take less than four courses per semester." Tuition is set at 110 Omani Riyals per credit hour.