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 Professor
Professor
Spanish Instructor
Spanish 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.
Advanced
KnowledgeDesign scaffolded curriculum and assessment strategies for multi-level language courses integrating linguistic, cultural, and literary learning objectives aligned with institutional standards.
Advanced
MindsetModel intercultural competence and respect for linguistic diversity when facilitating classroom discussions and mentoring students in cross-cultural understanding.
Advanced
KnowledgeInterpret grammatical structures, idiomatic expressions, and stylistic features of target language for diverse learners at varying proficiency levels in university settings.
Advanced
KnowledgeSynthesize pedagogical theory with language acquisition research and technology-enhanced instruction when developing innovative teaching methodologies and course materials.
Advanced
KnowledgeFormulate research questions and scholarly arguments in foreign language studies contributing to academic discourse through publications and conference presentations.
Advanced
KnowledgeAnalyze literary texts and cultural artifacts from target language traditions situating works within historical, philosophical, and socio-cultural contexts.
Proficient
MindsetIntegrate student-centered learning principles with cultural authenticity to foster motivation and communicative competence in postsecondary language classrooms.
Proficient
Hands-onDemonstrate mastery pronunciation, intonation, and gesture systems of target language modeling authentic communicative behaviors in classroom instruction and language labs.
Proficient
KnowledgeAssess learning outcomes and student progress using formative and summative measures leveraging learning management systems and aligning evaluations with program goals.
Proficient
Hands-onOperate multimedia presentation tools and collaborative editing platforms delivering interactive lectures and facilitating synchronous and asynchronous learning activities.
Proficient
MindsetAdvocate for linguistic and cultural preservation within academic communities participating in departmental initiatives and advising students on study abroad opportunities.
Proficient
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
Line chart of annual wages by percentile. U.S. is the solid line. 10th percentile: U.S. $47,090. 25th percentile: U.S. $59,790. 50th percentile: U.S. $77,010. 75th percentile: U.S. $101,680. 90th percentile: U.S. $134,960. Use the left and right arrow keys to move between percentiles.
U.S.
Metric
U.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
Skills & Requirements: Knowledge
Tools & Technology
Equipment and software commonly used in this occupation
