Michigan State University offers an expanded Post BA World Language Teacher Certification Program (formerly known as the Chinese Language Teacher Certification Program), now including both Chinese and Spanish options.
This expedited program allows graduates to earn both a teaching certificate and a Master's in World Language Teaching in two years (Residency Pathway) or obtain certification only in one year (Certification-only Pathway).
The Post BA World Language Teacher Certification Program (WLTCP) is a fast-track certification program designed for fluent speakers of Mandarin Chinese or Spanish who have already earned a bachelor’s degree. This program equips candidates with the skills and knowledge needed to teach their language and culture in U.S. schools.
Upon successful completion, graduates receive an initial Michigan secondary teacher certification with a PK-12 endorsement in Chinese or Spanish, and a Master of Arts degree in World Language Teaching.
Why Choose This Program?
This program prepares you to become an effective world language teacher through a combination of educational theory and meaningful classroom experience. Extensive clinical placements in U.S. schools allow you to practice teaching alongside experienced educators, helping you develop the skills and confidence needed to support diverse learners.
Financial Support
Financial support for students in the WLTCP may include stipends, fellowships, and/or scholarships credited to their student accounts throughout the two-year program.
Only residency pathway students are eligible for scholarships and fellowships. However, when available, there are additional scholarships available through the Michigan Department of Education (MDE) during student’s first year internship. The Future Educator Stipend currently offers up to $9,600 per semester in financial support (funded by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE); subject to limitations and or discontinuance at their discretion). Students in the residency program receive a $20,000 fellowship ($10,000 per semester) during their second year as compensation for their work as the teacher of record. MSU tuition rates change so specific numbers cannot be given; however, rough estimates can be made using MSU’s Tuition Calculator. Each person’s situation is different and will be treated as such.
Program Structure
Completion of MTTC exams:
- All Michigan Tests for Teacher Certification (MTTC) must be completed to obtain certification. These will need to be taken during year 1 (internship year).
Year 1 Internship:
- Mentored internship at a Michigan K-12 school. Students will also have the support of an MSU field instructor (FI) that will work closely with them and their mentor teacher (MT) to ensure the student’s teaching growth and efficacy.
- This is a full-time internship; student placements will be within a daily drivable distance from MSU’s campus.
- All courses will take place on one designated day each week, with students required to be on campus or in virtual classrooms to fulfill their academic obligations.
Year 2 Residency:
- Full-time teaching as the “teacher of record,” with ongoing academic coursework.
- This could be in Michigan or another state within the US.
- Courses take place at night or asynchronously online.
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After Admittance Information
- Students who have been admitted into the World Language Teacher Certification Program can arrive as early as July 16 but need to be in the US, settled, with paperwork completed and ready to work by August 16.
- We encourage students to arrive in late July or early August (visas permitting) giving them more time to:
- Be prepared for the start of the fall semester
- Complete requirements prior to internship start date.
- Get housing and transportation situated
- Students begin their one-year internships around August 16; this is based on the school district's calendar.
- Students will receive all admission communications via email.
- Questions should be directed to (517) 884-6061 or postbawltcp@msu.edu
- We encourage students to arrive in late July or early August (visas permitting) giving them more time to:
Completion Requirements
To earn Michigan Secondary Teacher Certification (Chinese/Spanish), candidates must:
- Maintain a minimum overall GPA of 3.0.
- Pass the Michigan Tests for Teacher Certification (Language Test and Professional Knowledge Skills Test).
- Demonstrate oral Chinese or Spanish proficiency at an intermediate-high level on the ACTFL OPI/OPIc.
- Submit the Conviction Disclosure Form.
- Meet the College of Education’s Technical Standards and Professional Standards
- Office Of Accreditation, Assessment, Curriculum, and Compliance Educational Requirements for Professional Licensure and Certification
For further details, visit the Post BA World Language Teacher Certification Program Admissions website.
Additional Information:
- Title IX Compliance: Learn more about Michigan State University’s Title IX policies.
For questions or enrollment assistance, contact us at (517) 884-6061 or PostBAWLTCP@msu.edu.