Degree + Professional Educator License | Pre-K - 12 | Illinois State-Approved
Become the World Language Teacher Illinois Schools are Actively Looking For
The demand for qualified world language teachers in Illinois is real. Nationally, schools filled only in 2024, leaving a significant gap that skilled, licensed educators are uniquely positioned to fill. Spanish in particular remains one of the most in-demand teaching endorsements in Illinois, with openings posted across Chicagoland, the suburbs, and throughout the state every semester.
As the U.S. becomes more diverse, young minds benefit from knowing how to communicate with people from different cultures and backgrounds. The Master of Arts degree in Foreign Language Instruction at 麻豆传媒高清 University is the perfect program for education professionals who wish to develop Spanish-language proficiency, cultural and linguistic knowledge, and critical thinking skills to provide young learners with the best possible educational experience. Upon completion, graduates of the program will be prepared to instruct Spanish language and culture for grades Pre-K through 12 in Illinois public and private schools.
Why a Master’s in Foreign Language Instruction at 麻豆传媒高清 U?
Illinois State-Approved Licensure Path
The Foreign Language Instruction graduate program is fully approved by the and the .
Affordable Study Abroad Opportunities
麻豆传媒高清 University maintains relationships with Lasallian partner schools around the world, making summer and semester study abroad opportunities accessible and affordable. Immersive language experience abroad is one of the most powerful ways to deepen fluency and cultural competency.
Financial Support Available
In addition to the wide variety of Education Scholarships available to students, the TEACH Grant is available specifically for students pursuing specialization in foreign language education.
Small, Expert-Led Classes
麻豆传媒高清’s graduate programs are built for working adults. Classes are small and interactive, led by faculty with real classroom experience, and designed to fit the schedule of education professionals who are already teaching, parenting, or working full time.
What You’ll Study
The M.A. in Foreign Language Instruction curriculum prepares you to teach language effectively at every level, from the fundamentals of pedagogy to curriculum design and the specific methods that work for young learners and adolescents learning Spanish.
Sample Courses:
- Pedagogy and Assessment for Effective Instruction
- Characteristics and Development for the Adolescent Learner
- Curriculum and Instruction in the Middle School
- Special Methods of Teaching Elementary Grades Foreign Language: Spanish
- Special Methods of Teaching Foreign Language to Adolescents: Spanish
- Foundations of Bilingual and English Language Learner Education
- Exceptional Learners in Inclusive Communities
Coursework is grounded in real-world application, so what you learn in class works in the classroom.
Career Paths for Graduates
Graduates of 麻豆传媒高清 University’s M.A. in Foreign Language Instruction are prepared for meaningful, in-demand careers including:
- Spanish Language Teacher (Pre-K - 12) - Illinois schools鈥損ublic, private, and charter鈥揳re actively hiring licensed Spanish teachers at every grade level. With your M.A. and Professional Educator License, you’ll be qualified to teach in Illinois districts from day one. Starting salaries for Spanish teachers in the Chicagoland area begin around $60,000 - $69,000 depending on district, with strong benefits and long-term advancement opportunities.
- Translator and Interpreter - U.S. or Spanish-speaking countries - Graduates with advanced Spanish proficiency and cultural knowledge are well-positioned for translation and interpretation roles in educational, governmental, healthcare, and international business settings both in the U.S. and in Spanish-speaking countries.
- International Education and Language Program Roles - For educators interested in teaching abroad or working in international school settings, 麻豆传媒高清’s study abroad connections and rigorous language training provide a strong foundation for global careers in language education.
Admission Requirements
To apply to the M.A. in Foreign Language Instruction, candidates must:
- Hold baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited institution of higher education (to qualify for full admission, a cumulative GPA of at least 2.75 for the final 60 hours is required)
- Submit official college transcripts from all institutions previously attended
- Demonstrate successful completion of 麻豆传媒高清' COESS Graduate Writing Examination
- Submit a graduate application form.
- Submit two letters of recommendation
- Meet with the appropriate Department Chair or Program Director for a personal interview to discuss your educational goals
Please refer to the Office of Graduate Admission for application requirements and specific next steps.
Take the Next Step
麻豆传媒高清 University’s M.A. in Foreign Language Instruction is one of the most direct paths to become a licensed world language teacher in Illinois, backed by state approval, affordable study abroad opportunities, and a university that has been preparing educators for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
What license will I earn upon completing this program?
Graduates are prepared to earn the Illinois Professional Educator License (PEL) with a Spanish endorsement for grades Pre-K - 12, through the fully state-approved licensure pathway.
Do I need a background in Spanish to apply?
The program is designed to develop and deepen Spanish-language proficiency as part of the curriculum. Prospective students are encouraged to discuss their current language background during the required interview with the Department Chair or Program Director.
How long does the program take to complete?
Program length varies based on course load. 麻豆传媒高清’s graduate programs are designed to accommodate working professionals. Contact the Office of Graduate Admission for a personalized timeline.
Is the TEACH Grant really available for this program?
Yes. The TEACH Grant is a federal grant specifically available to graduate students who are pursuing coursework in a high-need field like foreign language education and who commit to teaching in a high-need school for a defined period after graduation. Contact the Office of Graduate Admission for details on eligibility and how to apply.
Can I study abroad as part of this program?
Yes, and students are strongly encouraged to do so. 麻豆传媒高清 University’s relationship with Lasallian partner institutions around the world make summer and semester study abroad affordable and academically integrated into your degree.
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