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Why study world languages?
Research has shown that studying a second language can improve your skills in math and English and in turn, improve your entrance exam scores. In addition, learning a new language can give you a competitive edge in the job market. Knowing more than one language enhances opportunities in government, business, law, medicine and health care, teaching, technology, the military, communications, industry, social service, and marketing. Studies also show that learning a foreign language can help prevent dementia. Researchers from York University in Toronto, Canada, analyzed hospital records of patients diagnosed with a variety of types of dementia and found that those who were bilingual throughout their lives delayed the onset of the disease by three to four years. Learn more here from HuffPost UK.
Why teach a world languages?
Teaching a world language gives you the opportunity to teach students skills that they will be able to use outside the classroom in this globalized world. In addition, you will be able to transfer your knowledge and understanding of the target culture and language to your students. By teaching a world language, you are certain to remain an expert in the target language through daily practice. Another benefit to becoming a world language teacher is having the chance to enjoy cultural experiences, such as traveling abroad with your students.
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Getting Started
Student Resources
- Office of Field Placement
- Office of Educational Support Services
- Hofstra School of Education
- Professional Organizations
Careers in Language Education
New York State has reported persistent shortages in teachers for areas including World Languages, Bilingual Education and English as a Second Language. Those that are able to speak another language and has been trained in education pedagogy is in an exclusive position to be able to work in settings such as:
- Public and Private classrooms
- International Schools
- Public Service on the international stage
- Peace Corp
- Government Agencies
Check out NYSUT Report on The Teacher Shortage
- Enrollment in New York State’s teacher education programs has declined by 53 percent since 2009.
- NYS Teacher Retirement System projects that 1/3 of New York teachers could retire in the next five years.
- U.S. Department of Education has identified 18 teacher shortage areas throughout New York State. A decade ago there were only two.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is there a deadline for admission?
- Applications for graduate programs are accepted on a rolling basis for both fall and spring enrollment. They are reviewed and processed as they are received. Applicants are encouraged to apply early to allow adequate time for registration and to be eligible for departmental scholarships.
- What if I do not have 36 content hours before applying to the program?
- Students can make up deficiencies in foreign language content areas while they are enrolled in a graduate program at Hofstra. They can be completed at any time prior to student teaching. Students may also take advantage of two opportunities through the American Counsel on the Teaching of Foreign Language to gain credit for knowledge of a particular foreign Language. It is possible to be granted 14 credits through the Oral Proficiency Interview (OPI) and 14 credits though the Written Proficiency Test (WPT). These assessments aim to provide students with up to 28 content area credits and to be sure they are cleared to participate in student teaching.
- Are there scholarships available?
- Students are evaluated for merit-based scholarships through their graduate application. Each department has limited funds to distribute, so prospective students are encouraged to apply early. Students may also wish to inquire about the Federal TEACH grant. Students are encouraged to consult the Office of Student Financial Services for additional resources
- How long does it take to complete the programs?
- Graduate students progress through their studies at an individual pace under the advisement of the program director. Graduate students are considered full-time when registered for 9 semester hours or more per semester, though many student choose to study on a part-time basis. Master’s students must complete their program within five years of the initial semester of enrollment.
- Students in the Foreign Language M.S.Ed. program complete 37 graduate credits.
- Students in the dual LOTE and TESOL M.S.Ed. also complete 37 graduate credits.
M.S. ED. FULL-TIME M.S. ED. PART-TIME Fall 1: 9 Credits 6 Credits January 1: 3 Credits 0 Credits Spring 1: 10 Credits 6 Credits Summer 1: 6 Credits 6 Credits Fall 2: 9 Credits 7 Credits January 2: -- 0 Credits Spring 2: -- 6 Credits Summer 2: -- 6 Credits - How do students network to find employment post graduation?
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- It is common for student teachers to find full-time opportunities in the districts they are placed for student teaching. Education students at Hofstra are well connected with Hofstra alumni and area teachers through field placements and membership in local professional organizations
- Employment and affiliations: