Career roadmap
How to Become a Foreign Language Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a foreign language professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a foreign language professor: (1) study the language, (2) live or study abroad, (3) earn a master’s, (4) earn a Ph.D., (5) get hired. Most people need about 6–8 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a foreign language professor
Study the language
Major or minor.
Live or study abroad
Build fluency.
Earn a master’s
Teach as TA.
Earn a Ph.D.
Research.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. in a language, literature or linguistics is typical; community colleges often accept a master’s.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 6–8 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D. in the language: Doctoral degree.
- ACTFL OPI tester certification: Proficiency rating.
- Study abroad leadership training: Program safety.
- Advanced proficiency: Near-native fluency.
Skills to build now
Start with language fluency, language teaching methods, and literary analysis, and practice patience and cultural awareness. Learning the foreign language professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Teaching Assistant: Teach intro courses.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Chair: Lead departments.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Foreign Language Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
What degree do they need?
Usually a Ph.D. for universities.
How long does it take to become a foreign language professor?
Most people need about 6–8 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in a language, literature or linguistics is typical; community colleges often accept a master’s.
Do you need a degree to be a foreign language professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a doctorate, while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree.
What certifications are available for foreign language professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D. in the language, ACTFL OPI tester certification, Study abroad leadership training, and Advanced proficiency. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1124 (Foreign language and literature teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Foreign language and literature teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.