MAT in World Language Education
World Language Education website
Boston University’s Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) in World Language Education prepares you to become a teacher of Arabic, French, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish, leading to Initial teaching licensure at the 5-12 grade level.
The MAT in World Language Education is designed for individuals who either:
- Have a strong background in Arabic, French, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish and are seeking a teaching license for the first time, or
- Hold a Provisional license in Arabic, French, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish, and are seeking the Initial license.
Specializations
- Arabic
- Mandarin Chinese
- French
- Spanish
Essential Questions
How long does it typically take to complete this program?
How much does this program cost?
What are the start dates for this program and when are Applications due?
When and how will I take courses?
Does this program lead to licensure?
More About Our Program
Using a yearlong cohort-based model, we prepare you to teach in a variety of school contexts through coursework in world language pedagogy, special education, classroom management, foundations of education, as well as elective courses in world language education or Arabic, French, Mandarin Chinese, or Spanish taken through the College of Arts & Sciences (CAS). Our program is unique in providing you with a strong foundation in second language acquisition, linguistics, and world language methods that emphasizes a proficiency-based, communicative approach to language teaching. Our program is committed to teaching for social justice and disrupting inequality based in white supremacy, anti-Blackness, cisheteronormative patriarchy, ableism, and dominant English monolingualism.
You will complete a year-long pre-practicum and practicum (student teaching experience) in a local middle or high school, with the support of a Boston University program supervisor who specializes in world language education.
Career Outcomes
- Grade 5-12 Arabic, French, Mandarin or Spanish Teacher
- Curriculum Specialist
- Program Leader
Program Requirements
- Visit the BU Bulletin for information on this program’s academic requirements.
- Learn more about our partnership with ACTFL (actfl.org), including scholarship opportunities.
Program Faculty
Catherine Ritz, Clinical Assistant Professor, Program Director for Curriculum and Teaching and World Languages
Contact Info
For more information about this program and requirements for admission, please contact Dr. Ritz, critz@bu.edu, 617-353-3267
Next Steps
BU Wheelock Educator Preparation Programs Licensing Disclosure provides information about BU Wheelock state approved programs and how the educational requirements compare with those in other states. Education students in licensure programs should review this resource and contact edlic@bu.edu with questions.
Background Checks
Students who are admitted into BU Wheelock routinely participate in field experiences as a part of their respective program curriculum and requirements. Most field sites require criminal background checks to determine students’ eligibility for participation. History of a criminal background may disqualify students from participating in these required experiences, which in turn may impede the successful completion of one’s degree program.