SUNY New Paltz will introduce a new graduate degree program in January 2024, designed to help meet a pressing need for foreign language teachers in school districts across New York State.
The Master of Arts in Teaching World Language Education program leads to New York State teacher certification and provides skills and knowledge to prepare candidates for successful careers as language teachers in grades 7-12.
Specializations are available in French and Spanish to align with the areas of highest needs for regional high schools. No prior teaching experience, education or certification is required, as long as applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in French, Spanish or a related field.
At 39 credits, this degree can be completed in less than two years or more gradually on a part-time schedule. Courses are offered in hybrid, online and weekend formats to provide flexibility to busy professionals.
Enrollees will join a cohort of students who move through the program together. Students can apply now to be part of the first cohort in spring 2024.
In New York, like in states across the U.S., foreign language teachers are in high demand and there is strong competition among districts for skilled practitioners in this field. This new program aims to support both the teachers looking for a rewarding and sustainable career path, and the districts in need of talented and passionate educators to support their students.
The MAT in World Language Education is offered by the School of Education at SUNY New Paltz, which for decades has served the region by preparing generations of educators and school administrators, led by faculty who are inspired by forward-looking, evidence-based, technologically informed best practices in teaching.
More information about the new MAT in World Language Education, including application requirements and a full list of courses, can be found at this link or by contacting Program Coordinator Devon Duhaney at duhaneyd@newpaltz.edu or (845) 257-2853.
