Marymount University

What you'll study

The programme emphasises practical pedagogy grounded in linguistic theory and classroom experience. Core topics typically include second language acquisition, language analysis (phonology, syntax and discourse), assessment and testing, curriculum and materials design, and instruction for literacy and content-area learning in a second language.

Students study applied methodology for both English and French language teaching, learning techniques for teaching speaking, listening, reading and writing, and approaches to teaching grammar and vocabulary in context. Instructional technology for language learning and the use of authentic materials are integrated across modules.

A substantial practicum or supervised teaching component places students in local schools, community programmes or language centres to build classroom management skills and gain observed teaching hours. Many programmes also offer a capstone project or portfolio option in place of a traditional thesis, allowing students to demonstrate applied competence through curriculum development, action research or a practicum report.

• Second Language Acquisition
• Language Analysis and Applied Linguistics
• TESOL / French as a Second Language Methodology
• Assessment, Evaluation and Testing
• Curriculum Design and Materials Development
• Instructional Technology for Language Teaching
• Practicum with Supervised Teaching
• Capstone Project or Action Research

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an accredited bachelor’s degree. Relevant teaching experience is desirable but not always mandatory; career changers without classroom experience may be admitted and asked to complete a preliminary classroom observation or preparatory module.

Typical admissions documentation includes official transcripts, a personal statement outlining professional goals and motivation for language teaching, and letters of recommendation. International applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university’s English-language proficiency requirements through recognised tests or prior study in English. For applicants in the French stream, demonstrable proficiency in French is required.

Some applicants may be invited to an interview or asked to submit a teaching sample. Additional requirements apply for candidates seeking state teaching licensure; such applicants should consult the programme adviser about state-specific certification pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to a range of roles in the language-teaching sector. Common career paths include K–12 ESL/French teacher, adult and community education instructor, intensive language programme teacher, and instructor in private language schools or international programmes. Graduates also work as curriculum developers, materials writers, assessment specialists and programme coordinators for language centres and NGOs.

With additional qualifications or certification, graduates may advance into school leadership, teacher education and teacher training roles, or move into higher education positions supporting international student language development. The programme’s practicum and local partnerships help build networks in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area and beyond.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount University combines small class sizes and close faculty supervision with strong links to local schools and community language programmes, providing opportunities for meaningful practicum placements in the D.C. metropolitan area. The university emphasises applied learning, so students gain classroom-ready skills alongside theoretical knowledge.

Faculty in the language and education departments typically have experience in K–12 and adult language teaching, teacher education and applied linguistics, offering mentorship for classroom practice and research projects. The programme’s focus on instructional technology and materials development prepares graduates to use contemporary tools and resources in diverse teaching contexts.

Students benefit from Marymount’s supportive campus community, access to teaching resources and career services that help translate graduate training into employment and professional advancement in language education.