My LER

Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary

Teach languages and literature courses in languages other than English. Includes teachers of American Sign Language (ASL). Includes both teachers primarily engaged in teaching and those who do a combination of teaching and research.

SOC: 25-1124.00

Common Job Titles

French ProfessorProfessorSpanish InstructorSpanish Professor

What You'll Need to Succeed

AI-generated

Key competencies for this occupation at a glance

  • KnowledgeEvaluate student writing and oral production in target language using proficiency scales and providing constructive feedback to advance language acquisition.
  • KnowledgeDesign scaffolded curriculum and assessment strategies for multi-level language courses integrating linguistic, cultural, and literary learning objectives aligned with institutional standards.
  • MindsetModel intercultural competence and respect for linguistic diversity when facilitating classroom discussions and mentoring students in cross-cultural understanding.
  • KnowledgeInterpret grammatical structures, idiomatic expressions, and stylistic features of target language for diverse learners at varying proficiency levels in university settings.
  • KnowledgeSynthesize pedagogical theory with language acquisition research and technology-enhanced instruction when developing innovative teaching methodologies and course materials.
  • KnowledgeFormulate research questions and scholarly arguments in foreign language studies contributing to academic discourse through publications and conference presentations.
  • KnowledgeAnalyze literary texts and cultural artifacts from target language traditions situating works within historical, philosophical, and socio-cultural contexts.
  • MindsetIntegrate student-centered learning principles with cultural authenticity to foster motivation and communicative competence in postsecondary language classrooms.
  • Hands-onDemonstrate mastery pronunciation, intonation, and gesture systems of target language modeling authentic communicative behaviors in classroom instruction and language labs.
  • KnowledgeAssess learning outcomes and student progress using formative and summative measures leveraging learning management systems and aligning evaluations with program goals.
  • Hands-onOperate multimedia presentation tools and collaborative editing platforms delivering interactive lectures and facilitating synchronous and asynchronous learning activities.
  • MindsetAdvocate for linguistic and cultural preservation within academic communities participating in departmental initiatives and advising students on study abroad opportunities.
Wage Data According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics

Annual wage data for Foreign Language and Literature Teachers, Postsecondary (2024)

Estimated Total Employment (U.S.)

21,170

Wage Distribution by Percentile

MetricU.S.
10% of workers earn the following or less$47,090
10% of workers earn the following or more$134,960
Workers on average earn$87,670

+ indicates wage is at or above the BLS reporting cap ($239,200/year)

Skills & Requirements

Key competencies for this occupation, ranked by importance

  • Foreign Language5.0/5
  • English Language4.4/5
  • Education and Training4.1/5
  • History and Archeology3.3/5
  • Philosophy and Theology3.3/5
Tools & Technology

Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation

In-Demand Technology

Frequently requested by employers in job postings

Adobe IllustratorAdobe PhotoshopGoogle DocsMicrosoft ExcelMicrosoft Office softwareMicrosoft OutlookMicrosoft PowerPointMicrosoft WordZoom

Technology Skills

Adobe PageMakerAmerican Sign Language ASL browserAudacityBlackboard LearnBlackboard softwareCalendar and scheduling softwareCollaborative editing softwareComputer assisted language learning CALL software

Tools & Equipment

Carousel slide projectorsCompact digital camerasCompact disk CD playersComputer data input scannersComputer laser printersComputer projectorsConference telephonesDesktop computers