Foreign Languages Education
Description
With global communication ever increasing, it is becoming more and more important for students to be fluent in a foreign language. A solid education in a language and culture in middle and high school are increasing priorities. Students who love languages and have a desire to teach will find OU's nationally recognized Foreign Language Education program a strong mixture of in-class education and hands-on experiences. Beginning in their first Education class, students complete at least 100 hours in the classroom observing and tutoring students.
The curriculum for a Bachelor of Science degree is designed for four years. If students then wish to be certified to teach, they can choose to pursue a Master of Education degree or they can complete a certification-only program. The certification-only option requires one semester while the master's option can be completed in up to five years.
Field experiences prepare students for student-teaching internships during either the certification or graduate portion of their education. Internships typically last 16 weeks. Students work in the classroom observing, creating lesson plans and teaching. Students are allowed to request a school and even a specific teacher.
Degree Options
A Foreign Language Education student graduates with a Bachelor of Science in Education degree. A student could also pursue a Master of Education, a Doctor of Philosophy or a Doctor of Education degree. Students who obtain a master's degree may be certified as reading specialists.
Accreditation
In 2007, U.S. News and World Report ranked the College of Education 40th among the best graduate programs in the nation.
Notable Achievements
Foreign Language Education faculty members serve in numerous foreign education professional organizations. In addition, several Education faculty members serve on editorial boards for prestigious academic publications.
Students also have the opportunity to participate in such organizations as Kappa Delta Pi, an honor society that recognizes outstanding contributions to education, and the Student Council for Exceptional Children, which provides professional growth opportunities through field experiences.
Interests and Skills
Foreign Language Education students typically have interests in at least one foreign language, culture, writing and reading. Students would also be interested in working with and spending time with middle and high school students. They would be interested in working with others to achieve shared goals. High school preparation should include seeking opportunities in their community to work with students in both group and individual settings.
This page last updated: Oct 27, 2009