Applied Linguistics
Entry requirements
You will normally have at least a lower second-class undergraduate UK honours degree (or international equivalent) in TESOL, Linguistics, English Language, English, Education or a related/compatible subject or combination of subjects. Candidates with a lower classification of degree or degrees from unrelated disciplines are, however, encouraged to apply and will be considered on their merits, as will people with non-traditional qualifications.
Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification. Accepted English qualifications can be viewed here.
Months of entry
January, September
Course content
The MA Applied Linguistics is a versatile and interdisciplinary programme, which aims to provide you with a solid understanding of the basis of language and linguistics. Delivered by a team of tutors with internationally recognised academic expertise in a range of specialist areas, you will have the option to tailor your studies in either TESOL or English Language/Linguistics, whilst maintaining a broader connection to the discipline of applied linguistics.
You will have the opportunity to build your own bespoke master’s degree to reflect your interests in the further study of applied linguistics and create a truly individualised experience. Choose from a range of units that create a bridge between the theory and the practice of language and linguistics, from the practical application of Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) to research focussed modules that explore the complex understanding of language in use. Dedicated routes allow you to specialise in either TESOL or English Language. You may also take a range of units without choosing to specialise.
The MA Applied Linguistics (TESOL) specialism focuses on professional teaching practice in the English language classroom. Interactive sessions are delivered by industry experts and key researchers, and include lectures and student-centred learning methodologies such as discussions, debates and role-play to stimulate learning and demonstrate modern TESOL practice. With option units dedicated to course design and academic management, assessment, and various approaches to teaching practice, the TESOL specialism will give you a competitive edge in the global jobs market and provides career development for new and experienced teachers alike.
The MA Applied Linguistics (English Language) specialism emphasises the application of theories in a social context, aiming to enhance your analytical skills and your insight into the relationship between language, culture and society. You’ll explore different approaches to linguistic study, including how we use language in connection with identity and power. The staff teaching on units for this pathway are actively involved in current research, and they bring this experience to the classroom by using it to inform their teaching, thus ensuring discipline-relevant content is delivered by published experts.
You can also opt to take the MA Applied Linguistics without a dedicated specialism, choosing a selection of units to suit your interests. A general route allows you to develop a broad and wide-ranging expertise in the discipline of Applied Linguistics, which will give you the tools to engage in truly intercultural communication and open up a global marketplace of opportunity.
The MA is available to complete in one year full-time or two years part-time.
Features and Benefits (6-10 in order of importance, up to 30 words each):
- Research informed teaching – You will be taught by staff who are active researchers, many of whom are part of The Manchester Centre for Research in Linguistics, which carries out a range of research. Our expertise spans forensic linguistics and second language acquisition to sociolinguistic projects, such as Manchester Voices.
- Employability focussed – Many of the assessment tasks are designed to enhance your employability. For example, the MA Applied Linguistics (TESOL) has a strong focus on the practical realities of classroom teaching and learning, and you may be asked to evaluate materials, design tests or design a course for a group of learners of your choice. In the Final Independent Project, you produce a traditional research-focused dissertation, or if you already hold a CELTA/Trinity CertTESOL, you could choose to develop a portfolio of teaching practice observations, reflection and analyses alongside a short investigation on an agreed topic.
- Gain language teaching experience at a UK university – As the University has a Language Centre where international students are learning English, you will have the option to practice your skills in real life contexts. You would help these students with their pronunciation, fluency development and natural expression, and this will greatly enhance your CV. You can observe our highly-experienced and qualified English Language Teachers in our Language Centre, which was awarded several points of excellence in the two most recent quality inspections from the British Council.
- Be part of a professional community – You will be able to build your professional network through a diverse community of linguists, including both staff who teach on the degree and students from across the globe who are enrolled on the degree. As well as being able to take advantage of the research expertise of staff, you will interact with other students who have a diverse range of interests, from the practical application of teaching English to speakers of other languages, to those who want to understand the theory behind language use. You can also build on your network of professional contacts through our close links to language teaching schools in Manchester and NATESOL (Northern Association of Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages), a professional development charity organisation.
Information for international students
For more information to support your studies in the UK, including course details, how to apply, and living in the UK visit our website.
Fees and funding
Find out more about Postgraduate loans.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- MA
- full time12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
- part time24 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Course contact details
- Name
- Course Enquiries Team
- courses@mmu.ac.uk