World Language Instruction FAQs
Review the FAQs to understand the requirements and expectations for the program. Email mastered@cord.edu with additional questions.
Review the FAQs to understand the requirements and expectations for the program. Email mastered@cord.edu with additional questions.
Where does the program take place?
Students attend two summer sessions through a combination of online coursework and a 10-day in-person experience at Concordia Language Villages (CLV) in Bemidji, Minnesota. Time spent at the world-renowned Language Villages sets our program apart from the other master's programs on the market. CLV is an immersive experience with culturally authentic, year-round sites for Finnish, French, German, Norwegian, Russian, Spanish, and Swedish on Turtle River Lake. During the academic year, coursework is done online.
Why should I choose the Master of Education in World Language Instruction program?
We offer a one-of-a-kind program through our use of Concordia Language Villages during summer sessions, along with practical classroom application and a strong focus on integrating technology in the classroom. We have more than a decade of experience preparing outstanding language educators. Our small cohort size allows consistent advising and mentoring throughout the program.
When does the program start and how long does it run?
In June, students gather in-person for a 10-day immersive experience at Concordia Language Villages in Bemidji, Minnesota. During the visit, students complete three summer courses and then return home to finish up the remainder of their coursework online. The final academic year is an online seminar and the research thesis/professional project capstone. We also offer a flexible fall start option to meet student's individual needs.
Can I complete my degree online?
Yes! The program is mainly online, minus the 10-day in-person learning experience in Bemidji. We design each of our courses to work with the busy lives of teachers and, because of the online nature of the program, our cohorts are made of teachers from across the U.S. and around the world.
What if I cannot be present for the full 10 days of in-person instruction?
We work closely with students and do our best to meet their unique needs. Please reach out to mastered@cord.edu and we'll connect you with the program director to discuss options for participation in the summer courses.
I completed my degree outside the U.S. Am I eligible to apply for the program?
Yes, international students may apply to the program. They must submit their undergraduate transcript(s) to an approved credential evaluation agency for review and validation prior to applying to the program. These agencies can be found on the NACES website. Non-native English speakers must demonstrate proficiency in English by providing one of the following:
IELTS with a minimum test score of 6.5
TOEFL with a minimum test score of 80
How many students are accepted into the program each year?
While there is no set limit on the number of students beginning the program each year, we are committed to small cohorts to provide the best experience.
Who is the program intended for?
Our program is ideal for working world language and EFL/TESOL teachers. The hybrid program design is ideal for busy professionals to complete while teaching.
Can I take courses for licensure without completing the master's program?
No, teaching licensure is not available to acquire independently from the master's program. Students must apply for the master's program to complete licensure coursework embedded within the program.
Does my teaching experience improve my chance of being admitted to the program?
The admission team is looking for applicants with a combination of strong academics and diverse experiences, including teaching experiences, along with the passion to complete the master's program to improve their methods in the classroom and/or to be able to contribute to the field of language education. An individual does not need to be a teacher currently teaching in a classroom to be accepted to the program.
What are the main strengths of the program?
Is it possible to take individual courses from the program as a non-degree-seeking student?
Yes, students may decide to take one or more courses from the program as electives. We require a completed General Elective Admission Form with attached unofficial transcripts showing a baccalaureate degree was earned. Following receipt of the form, students would be admitted to the college and receive Concordia credentials. Course tuition is paid through Concordia's Business Office.
When can I apply to the Master of Education in World Language Instruction program?
Applications are accepted beginning in September for the following year's program. Application review begins in October and will continue through May or until the cohort is filled.
What are the requirements for admission to the program?
You must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Are there any prerequisite courses I need to complete prior to applying for the program?
There are no specific prerequisite course requirements needed to apply to the program.
Are graduate transfer credits accepted?
Yes, Concordia accepts a certain number of transfer credits for master's programs. Please review the Transfer Credit Policy for details.
How do I apply to the program?
The applications and all required materials are submitted through GradCAS. Visit the Application Help Center for specific details about the application process.
Are there additional materials required as part of the application?
Yes, the following are required to complete your application:
How do I submit my official transcripts? Can my transcripts be reviewed prior to the application period?
Request your official transcripts from each post-high school institution's registrar's office and have them sent to: GradCAS Transcript Processing Center, PO Box 9201, Watertown MA 02471
Your transcripts will be attached to your application.
Transcripts are only reviewed through the actual application process; please do not send them directly to Concordia College.
How does the reference process work?
We require three evaluations. The individuals you choose should not be related to you and should have strong knowledge of your professional character including observation of special skills, your ability to succeed in a graduate program, achievements and/or professional experiences. Please notify your evaluators in advance they will receive a link to the Liaison Evaluator Portal to create an account and complete the standard form. Evaluators also have the option to upload a personal letter.
Your GradCAS application will have a designated tab for you to request evaluators.
How do I know if my application has been received and/or reviewed?
Throughout the application process, you will receive email notifications — when you submit your application, after required materials have been received, and when your application is under review. If you have questions during the application process, please contact our admission team.
What should I expect during the summer sessions at Concordia Language Villages?
The experiences at CLV are students' favorite aspect and most exciting component of the program. In addition to student engagement in readings and discussions in the classroom in Bemidji, significant time is spent at the Language Villages applying course concepts and learned methods. On each visit, students feel as though they are transported to a different country. They are immersed in the language and culture(s) alongside 6- to 18-year-old villagers.
What will I take away from the program?
Following the program, students will be able to:
What kind of support will I receive from faculty during the program?
The graduate faculty professors and instructors from Concordia College and Concordia Language Villages share a wide array of diverse experiences and excellence in world language instruction and advise and mentor each student through understanding of their specific needs and goals. Given the small cohort size, strong relationships are formed with students as they continue on their career path.
What does the program cost?
Please visit the Program Cost page for detailed information about tuition and fees.
Is there financial aid available for the program?
To apply for all forms of federal financial aid you must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. The FAFSA can be completed any time after Dec. 1 for the following academic year. Students will also need to complete a FAFSA for the current academic year to receive aid for the first summer session. It is necessary to complete a FAFSA every year. An award letter is sent to students once financial aid has been approved. The financial aid package is awarded based on financial aid contained in the FAFSA. Aid received from any source that was not originally considered in the aid package may affect the amount received. Students are required to notify the Financial Aid Office about all aid received from other sources. Check out Concordia's information on filing your FAFSA. More information can be found on the program cost page.
Is housing available for students in the program?
During the 10-day in-person portion of the summer session, students stay on the campus of Bemidji State University for a minimal cost. BSU is located just 15 minutes from Concordia Language Villages.
How do I pay my tuition and fees?
Cash | Business Office
Check or Money Order | Business Office or via mail (please include your student ID number)
Electronic Check | online from checking or savings
Credit Card | online (American Express, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa are accepted and a convenience fee of 2.85% of the transaction amount will be assessed)
International Wire | online via TouchNet / Western Union
Monthly Payment Plan | via Tuition Management Systems
Are paper statements mailed out each month?
No, paper statements are only sent to the student's permanent address in mid-July and mid-December. All other monthly statements (including summer session statements) are only available online via TouchNet on CobberNet and are due the 15th of the following month. Between billing cycles, updated balances or current activity can be viewed by logging into the "eBill" site and selecting the "recent account activity" link (Current Account Status tab).
How will I know when a new statement is available?
Emails will be sent to students at their Concordia email address indicating that a new billing statement has been prepared and is ready for viewing. The email sent to students provides a link to the CobberNet login. Once logged in to CobberNet, students can access the "eBill" page by selecting the TouchNet icon. Monthly statements will be ready approximately the 17th of each month.
Who do I have to pay a convenience fee to make a credit card payment?
Concordia College contracts with a third party service provider (TouchNet/Pay Path) to ensure compliance with Payment Card Industry (PCI) and Payment Application Data Security Standard (PA-DSS) card association rules. The 2.85% rate charged by the service provider is collected and retained by the service provider and is nonrefundable.
When are payments due?
Summer semester (first-time enrollees): July 15
Summer semester (continuing enrollees): June 15
Fall semester: Aug. 15
Spring semester: Jan. 15
Any subsequent charges are due by the 15th of the following month. Interest (8% per annum) is assessed on fee statement charges if not paid in full by the due date. Registration for future semesters and release of transcripts may not be allowed until outstanding fees are paid.
Who do I contact if I have questions regarding financial aid?
Any questions regarding financial aid (scholarships, loans, etc.) should be directed to the Office of Financial Aid at 218.299.3010 or finaid@cord.edu.
Can international students pay online if they do not have a U.S. bank account?
Yes, international students can pay through an international bank wire in TouchNet. Please select the Bank Wire payment method and follow the directions when making your online payment in TouchNet.
Can my employer pay my tuition?
Yes, your employer will need to notify the Business Office in writing that they wish to pay for your tuition. They will need to include the following in their letter: