Eastern Washington University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundation language courses with applied linguistics and pedagogy tailored to English or French as a second or foreign language. Typical modules include:

• Foundations of Linguistics — phonetics and phonology, morphology and syntax as they relate to language teaching.
• Second Language Acquisition — major theories and their classroom implications.
• Language Teaching Methodology — lesson planning, classroom management, communicative approaches and task-based instruction.
• Grammar and Writing for Language Teachers — explicit grammar teaching, error correction and supporting writing development.
• Pronunciation and Listening — strategies for helping learners improve spoken accuracy and aural comprehension.
• Materials Design and Assessment — developing teaching materials, designing formative and summative assessments, and evaluating tests.
• Culture and Intercultural Communication — sociolinguistic variation, pragmatics and cultural competence in language teaching.
• Practicum / Teaching Internship — supervised teaching practice in local schools, community language programmes or partner institutions; observation and reflective practice are emphasised.
• Advanced French Language (for French track) — progressive development of reading, writing, speaking and listening skills; literature and civilisation electives available.
• Research Methods — introductory methods in applied linguistics and classroom research, preparing students for capstone projects or graduate study.

Students can expect a mix of lectures, small seminars, language lab work and guided teaching practice. The programme also encourages opportunities for study abroad, community engagement and elective coursework in related areas such as educational psychology, literacy or digital language learning.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a high-school diploma or equivalent. Typical entry expectations include a solid academic record and demonstrated English proficiency. Specific requirements commonly include:

• Completion of secondary education with grades meeting undergraduate admission standards for the university.
• Evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English; standardised test scores or equivalent institutional proof may be required.
• For the French track, prior study of French at secondary level is normally recommended; placement testing may be used to determine appropriate starting level.
• A personal statement outlining interest in language teaching and relevant experience; some applicants may also be asked to provide references.

Prospective students interested in classroom K–12 certification should check additional state teacher preparation and certification requirements, as these involve separate coursework and practicum hours beyond the degree itself.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles in education and language-related fields. Common pathways include:

• ESL/EFL teacher in public or private schools, language institutes and adult education programmes locally and internationally.
• Language teacher for French in immersion, bilingual or foreign language programmes.
• Curriculum and materials developer for schools, publishers and online course providers.
• Language assessment and testing roles, including preparation for standardised examinations and placement testing.
• Community education co‑ordinator, refugee and immigrant language support services, and workplace language training.
• Further study in applied linguistics, TESOL, education or related fields leading to specialist or research roles.

With additional credentialing, graduates may pursue state teacher certification for K–12 positions, or move into administrative, policy or international education roles.

Why study at Eastern Washington University

Eastern Washington University offers a learner-centred environment with relatively small classes that allow close interaction with faculty experienced in language teaching and applied linguistics. The university’s connections with schools and community organisations in the Spokane region provide practical practicum and volunteer opportunities for hands-on teaching experience.

Students benefit from language resources such as language labs and multimedia learning tools, plus opportunities to study abroad or participate in exchange programmes that strengthen language competence and intercultural understanding. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for both immediate entry into language teaching and for continued professional development through graduate study or certification pathways.