Applied Linguistics and Communication

Our MA Applied Linguistics and Communication is taught by leading specialists in multilingualism and multiculturalism. Applied linguistics has been taught at Birkbeck since 1965, making this one of the oldest applied linguistics departments in the world. The most recent external examination of our course reported that ‘there are very high levels of professionalism and real quality in teaching. Students taking this unique course are getting the best in terms of professional practice and support. They are also allowed to develop their own interests and demonstrate independence of both skills and knowledge.’

The core modules introduce you to qualitative and quantitative research methods for undertaking your own empirical and/or theoretical research into language and language behaviour in the form of an extended literature review or dissertation, and to sub-domains of applied linguistics such as first and second language acquisition, intercultural communication, language pedagogy and assessment, language impairment, language policy and language and identity. You are also able to choose from a suite of option modules.

This Master's degree in applied linguistics and communication is also unique in offering you a choice between two dissertation pathways: an empirical research investigation of an aspect of language teaching and learning, or an independent library-based project on a relevant topic of your choice.

The course is suitable for people who wish to further their career prospects and professional development, and those who have an interest in doctoral research and aspire to work in higher education. The MA is an internationally recognised higher professional qualification.

• Applied linguistics has been taught by experienced specialists at Birkbeck since 1965. Our centre of teaching and research excellence in applied linguistics has contributed greatly to the field over the years.
• There is an active student-run Linguistics Society, which hosts events and speakers throughout the year, and organises an annual Postgraduate Student Research Conference every summer. In addition, the Centre for Multilingual and Multicultural Research hosts a lecture series given by international visiting scholars. Birkbeck also actively collaborates with the larger community of applied linguists throughout University of London colleges.
• Read a blog post by Professor Penelope Gardner-Chloros that considers what linguistics is.
• We offer a number of bursaries for postgraduate students.