Northern Arizona University

What you'll study

The programme combines theoretical foundations in linguistics and second language acquisition with practical coursework in pedagogy, assessment and materials development. Core topics typically include theories of language learning, contrastive grammar and error analysis, syllabus and lesson design, language testing and evaluation, sociolinguistics and culturally responsive teaching. Students pursuing the French option also study advanced French grammar, francophone culture and literature, and methods for teaching Romance languages.

• Foundations of second language acquisition: major theories, research methods and implications for teaching.
• Applied linguistics and grammar for teachers: analysis of learner language, pronunciation, and teaching grammar in context.
• Language teaching methodology: task‑based learning, communicative approaches, materials development and lesson planning.
• Assessment and program evaluation: test design, formative and summative assessment, valid and reliable evaluation practices.
• Practicum / supervised teaching: classroom observation and hands‑on teaching experience with feedback from supervisors.
• Electives and specialization: courses in bilingual education, content and language integrated learning (CLIL), corpus linguistics, or advanced French language and culture for the French track.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Admission typically requires a satisfactory undergraduate academic record and may ask for official transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining professional goals, and letters of recommendation. Candidates whose first language is not English must meet the university's English proficiency requirements with an accepted test score or approved alternative evidence.

Candidates with a teaching certificate or classroom experience are competitive for practicum placements, though those without prior teaching experience are still eligible and will complete supervised clinical components. Some specialisations or funding options may have additional requirements; applicants should consult the programme adviser for details.

Career prospects

Graduates work across a wide range of educational and language‑service settings. Typical career paths include:

• ESL/EFL teacher in K–12 schools, adult education centres and private language programmes.
• French language teacher in secondary schools, immersion programmes and community schools.
• English for Academic Purposes (EAP) instructor in colleges and universities.
• Curriculum developer, materials writer or instructional designer for language programmes and publishers.
• Language programme coordinator, assessment specialist or educational consultant for NGOs, government agencies and language institutes.
• Further academic study or research in applied linguistics, language testing or language education.

Why study at Northern Arizona University

Northern Arizona University offers a programme grounded in applied research and hands‑on practice, with faculty experienced in language teaching, assessment and multilingual education. Students benefit from opportunities to complete supervised practicum placements in local schools and community programmes in the Flagstaff region and through institutional partner networks. The department emphasises culturally responsive pedagogy and prepares graduates to teach diverse learner populations and to design inclusive language curricula.

Flexible delivery options and a supportive cohort model allow working professionals to balance study with employment, while access to university language resources and research centres helps students stay current with best practices in TESOL and French language instruction.