Inspire Learning and Connection through World Languages
Hone your skills as an educator with a Master of Education (EdM) in World Language Education from BU Wheelock. Whether you are an aspiring educator or an advancing world language educator or leader, this master’s program is open to educators of any modern language, and offers the option to pursue initial teaching licensure.
Program Pathways and Field Experiences
The EdM in World Language Education can be completed fully online or in person. You have the option to enroll in this program either full- or part-time. As a student in the master’s (EdM) in World Language Education, you’ll advance your abilities through field-based experiences that will give you valuable hands-on work in a classroom.
World language instructors who already hold licensure can use this world language education master’s to expand their pedagogical expertise and become curricular leaders.
Educators who hope to teach in settings where licensure is not required (adult, international, or private school settings) can also be prepared as classroom teachers.
Aspiring educators preparing to teach in public schools may pursue initial teaching license in one of nine languages (Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Portuguese, Russian, or Spanish) at either the preK–grade 6 or grade 5–12 levels.
The EdM in World Language Education offers the option to pursue dual licensure for the same language at two levels or in two different languages.
Students in the EdM in World Language Education have the option to pursue a graduate certificate in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages). Through this pathway, licensure-seeking students also meet requirements for an initial license in English as a Second Language (ESL) (PreK–6 or 5–12) in Massachusetts. Licensure-seeking students will complete an ESL practicum.
Students who are already licensed teachers will complete a field experience course in their own classrooms and benefit from structured feedback and coaching. They will complete the program with a portfolio that demonstrates their understanding of effective world language teaching.
Full-time students seeking licensure will engage in a year-long supervised field placement. For part-time students who hold the Provisional license, this field placement may occur in their own classroom.
Students not seeking licensure will complete a student-teaching practicum that will provide structured support to prepare them as classroom teachers.
“I am proud of how much I have grown. I have created many lessons and cultivated positive relationships with students. I truly feel that, if I can do this, I can do anything.”
Career Outcomes in World Language Education
The world language education master’s prepares you to become an effective language educator equipped to support diverse learners through research-based instruction, meaningful assessment, collaborative partnerships, and ongoing professional growth. Upon completing your degree, you’ll be able to:
- Build supportive relationships with students
- Plan and use effective teaching strategies
- Use assessments and provide helpful feedback
- Choose appropriate resources
- Work with other educators, families, and communities to support student learning
Join Alumni in a Rewarding Career in World Language Education
Graduates of our master’s in teaching world languages make an impact in a number of roles across a variety of school settings. BU Wheelock alumni hold positions such as:
- K–12 teachers
- Instructors for adult learners
- Teachers at private schools
- Teachers in international school settings
- Curriculum specialists
- Program leaders
“This program has already changed so much about the way I teach for the better, and I’m incredibly proud to have completed it.”
Featured Faculty
The faculty in BU Wheelock’s master’s in world language education have extensive teaching experience and expertise in areas such as developing curricula and assessments, effective world language methods and pedagogy, and world language teacher development.
Dr. Catherine Ritz is the director of the World Language Education program. She teaches courses on world language pedagogy, research, and learning design, as well as courses on curriculum and teaching across content areas. Her research focuses on world language education, teacher practice, and programmatic leadership.
World Language Education Courses
Students seeking licensure as world language educators in grades PreK–6 (44 credits) or 5–12 (42 credits) take courses that cover a range of topics related to education, world language, and language acquisition. These courses include:
- Teaching Methods in World Language Education
- A Practical Approach to Classroom Management
- Reading Development and Assessment
- Applied Linguistics: Language and Linguistics Survey
- Second Language Acquisition
- Curriculum and Assessment in World Language Education
Additional course work applies for students seeking dual licensure in a second language or licensure in both levels.
World language educators not seeking licensure will take a core set of courses, as well as choose from electives in consultation with a faculty advisor (36 credits). Core courses include:
- Second Language Acquisition
- Teaching Methods in World Language Education
- Curriculum and Assessment in World Language Education
- Inclusive Principles and Practices in World Language Education
World language educators who already hold licensure will take a core set of courses, as well as choose from electives in consultation with a faculty advisor (36 credits). Core courses include:
- Introduction to Research
- Second Language Acquisition
- Teaching Methods in World Language Education
- Curriculum & Assessment in World Language Education
Students in the World Language Education master’s can pursue a five course (18 credit) add-on license in English as a Second Language (ESL) in Massachusetts. Required courses include:
- The Student-Teaching Experience—Bilingual (ESL) Language
- Methods in Bilingual Education and English as a Second Language (ESL)
- Literacy Development for Bilingual Students: Instruction and Assessment
Enrolled students may also add a graduate certificate in TESOL, which includes two additional courses: Structure of English and Foundations of TESOL Pedagogy
Related Programs
World Language Education Graduate Certificate
Strengthen your professional practice as teaching world languages with the World Language Education graduate certificate. For students interested in pursuing a master’s degree in the future, the graduate certificate may be “stacked” with the EdM in World Language Education.
Curriculum & Teaching CAGS
Expand your impact as an educator with a certificate of advanced graduate study (CAGS) in Curriculum & Teaching. This post-master’s credential delivers training in planning, teaching methods, and outcome evaluation, and is open to educators working in world language education.
The Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) program trains professionals to teach children, youth, and adults who are learning English. Choose from one of two master’s programs or a graduate certificate.
- EdM in TESOL & Applied Linguistics (non-licensure)
- EdM in TESOL Multilingual Learner Education (licensure)
- TESOL Graduate Certificate
Scholarships Available
Don’t let financial concerns keep you from earning your world language education degree. BU Wheelock’s graduate programs are eligible for merit-based scholarships.
Scholarship opportunities are available for applicants who are active members of TAPIF and ACTFL members.
Admissions & Dates
Fall 2026 Start
Jul 1, 2026
Application Closes (International Applicants)
Fall 2026 Start
Aug 1, 2026
Application Closes
Fall 2027 Start
Aug 15, 2026
Application Opens
Spring 2027 Start
Dec 15, 2026
Application Closes
Connect with BU Wheelock to learn more about earning your Master of Education in World Language Education (EdM). Learn about application requirements and deadlines, sign up for an information session, or start your application today.
Frequently Asked Questions
You’ll deepen your understanding of world language teaching and learning. This master’s program in World Language Education focuses on curriculum, instruction, and how learners develop communication skills and cultural competence across diverse educational settings.
Yes—this master’s in world language education offers flexible options for working professionals. You can complete coursework remotely or in person, depending on your needs.
Applicants should have a foundation in world language study, but the program is designed to support educators with a range of experiences. Throughout the program, you’ll strengthen both your language teaching expertise and your understanding of how learners develop communication and cultural proficiency.
Graduates are world language educators in a number of different languages and in a variety of schools settings, both public and private. They also pursue roles such as curriculum specialists and program leaders.
Licensing Disclosure
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.