University of Hawaii at Manoa

What you'll study

The degree combines core language study with applied linguistics, pedagogy and supervised teaching experience. Typical modules include foundations of second language acquisition, phonetics and phonology for teachers, English/French grammar and composition, language assessment and classroom testing, teaching methodology for young learners and adults, curriculum and materials development, sociolinguistics and multilingualism, and the use of technology in language teaching. Students pursuing the French strand will also take intermediate and advanced French language and literature courses, while those on the English strand will study varieties of English and discourse analysis.

The programme usually includes a practicum or student-teaching component in partnership with local schools or community language programmes, and a capstone project or portfolio that demonstrates classroom planning, assessment design and reflection on teaching practice. Electives allow specialisation in areas such as bilingual education, heritage language instruction, TESOL for specific purposes (e.g. academic English), and language policy in multilingual communities.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification and meet the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa general admissions standards. Typical requirements include a competitive high-school GPA and a record of coursework in English; applicants for the French option will normally need some prior study of French at secondary level or equivalent demonstrable ability. Native-level or advanced English proficiency is required for all applicants; international applicants may be asked to provide recognised evidence of English proficiency.

Additional selection elements can include a statement of purpose describing interest in language teaching, academic references, and, where applicable, placement testing or interviews to determine appropriate language course levels. Candidates should also be prepared to meet any background-check or health requirements associated with school-based practicum placements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of careers in language teaching and related fields. Common pathways include teaching English as a second or foreign language in K–12 schools, adult education centres and language institutes, teaching French in bilingual or immersion settings, and working in community language programmes. Other opportunities include curriculum and materials development, language assessment and testing, teacher training and professional development, educational publishing, and roles in international education or NGOs. Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study in TESOL, applied linguistics, education or related disciplines.

Why study at University of Hawaii at Manoa

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa offers a distinctive environment for language teacher preparation because of its Pacific location and richly multilingual, multicultural community. The campus houses specialist expertise in second language studies and languages and literatures, providing access to faculty active in second language acquisition research and applied pedagogy. Students benefit from practicum partnerships with local schools, community organisations and language programmes across Oʻahu, giving real-world experience with learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds.

Additional advantages include opportunities for study-abroad or exchange in francophone regions or Asia–Pacific locations, language resource facilities and language-learning technology, and the chance to engage with research and professional development offered through campus centres focused on language teaching and bilingual education.