Seattle University

What you'll study

The programme blends core study in second‑language acquisition and linguistics with practical courses in teaching methodology, curriculum development and assessment. Typical modules include:

• Foundations of Second‑Language Acquisition: theoretical approaches to how learners acquire a new language, implications for classroom practice.
• Applied Linguistics and Grammar for Teachers: practical description of English or French grammar and ways to present it to learners.
• Teaching Methodology and Materials Development: lesson planning, task‑based learning, developing and adapting materials for different proficiency levels and contexts.
• Assessment and Testing: classroom assessment, formative and summative testing, alternative assessment practices and alignment with standards.
• Pronunciation and Phonology for Teachers: analysis of sound systems and strategies for teaching pronunciation.
• Sociolinguistics and Multilingual Classrooms: language variation, identity, multilingualism and equity in language education.
• Technology in Language Teaching: using digital tools, online resources and blended learning approaches to support communicative practice.
• Practicum / Supervised Teaching: observed classroom teaching placement(s) in local schools or community language programmes, with mentor feedback and reflective practice.
• Research Methods and Capstone Project or Thesis: training in qualitative and quantitative methods for applied research and completion of an applied project or a research thesis focused on a classroom or programme issue.

Students follow a coherent programme of core courses and electives, culminating in supervised teaching practice and a capstone research or applied project. Course selection may be tailored to the English or French track, with language‑specific seminars and practicum placements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Admissions typically consider the academic transcript, a personal statement describing relevant experience and goals, and letters of recommendation. Prior classroom experience or volunteer work with language learners is advantageous but not always required. International applicants whose first language is not English (for the English track) will normally be asked to demonstrate English proficiency through an accepted test or institutional equivalent; applicants to the French track whose primary language is not French may be asked to demonstrate appropriate French proficiency. Some programmes may request a short teaching demonstration or interview as part of the selection process.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme move into a variety of roles in language education and related fields, including:

• ESL/EFL and FSL classroom teacher positions in K–12 schools, adult education centres and private language schools.
• Curriculum developer, materials writer or programme coordinator for schools, language institutes and non‑profit organisations.
• Assessment specialist or test developer for educational testing organisations and language programmes.
• Teacher educator or staff trainer delivering professional development for language teachers.
• Positions in international education, study‑abroad advising, community outreach and immigrant/refugee support services.
• With further study, roles in applied linguistics research or higher education teaching and scholarship.

The programme's supervised practicum and network of local partnerships help graduates demonstrate classroom readiness and make professional connections in the Seattle region and beyond.

Why study at Seattle University

Seattle University combines a focus on rigorous, applied training with the mission‑driven emphasis of a Jesuit institution, encouraging ethical practice and community engagement in education. Small cohort sizes allow close mentorship from faculty with experience in second‑language pedagogy and applied linguistics, and the programme typically includes supervised practicum placements with diverse local schools and community organisations. Students benefit from being in a multilingual, multicultural city with many opportunities for placements, volunteer work and collaboration with local school districts, nonprofit agencies and international programmes. The university's resources—language centres, educational technology support and opportunities for interdisciplinary work—support both classroom practice and applied research, helping graduates move quickly into professional roles or continue into doctoral study if they choose.