I am about to start applying to grad schools for TESOL, SLA and applied linguistics master's programs with the goal of the goal of teaching English at universities in Asia, but I am having a hard time determining what I should prioritize. I notice discrepancies even within TESOL programs. In particular, the existence of a thesis option and variability in opportunities for teaching experience. How important is a thesis? Is a single practicum enough experience?
Also, I may want to continue my education in linguistics at sometime. Would a more linguistics oriented program position me better for this? Should I avoid programs that are explicitly TESOL?