Applied Linguistics MA

We've designed this programme for teachers, teacher trainers and materials writers in the field of Foreign Language Teaching (particularly English as a Foreign Language).

More particularly, the programme aims to:

Increase your awareness and knowledge of relevant areas of applied linguistics research and theory

Help you to apply relevant applied linguistics research and theory to the practicalities of language teaching

Assist you in developing a deeper understanding of current classroom methodology, as well as of current developments in testing, in course design and in materials development

Increase your awareness and knowledge of the latest approaches to language analysis, and of their potential for application to language teaching.

Normally you’ll need a first degree and relevant professional experience before applying for this programme.

Our academic staff have extensive experience of teaching internationally and working on projects and have active research interests and publications. Student feedback consistently indicates how much they appreciate our tutors’ friendly and patient support as well as their excellent academic and professional abilities.

You’ll take four core modules, along with three further taught options from a wide selection offered each year. There’ll also be a dissertation to write, normally on a subject related to the topics covered in the taught modules.

Why English?

Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2014

In the 2014 Research Excellence Framework (REF), we ranked 10th out of 89 in the UK for 4* (world-leading) and 3* (internationally excellent) research.

Strong postgraduate community

With over 150 taught and research students from all over the world, you will be part of a genuine international community. You will be able to participate in our lively research culture through attending regular seminars and lectures by guest speakers as well as our own staff and students. A legacy from former tutor Miriam Allott has allowed the department to host a creative writing fellow (currently the poet Sean Borodale), and a vibrant series of international poetry readings. Recent conferences include ‘On Liberties’ at St Deiniol’s Library, and ‘Renaissance Old Worlds’ in collaboration with the British Library. As a doctoral student you can participate in the optional English Graduate Teaching Programme, which allows doctoral students to get the best of the teaching opportunities available without making significant demands on their time.

Career prospects

The independence of study, clarity of expression and management of time demanded by all our taught programmes equip the successful graduate with the skills and knowledge base required for further academic study and research in English and other areas.

However, many graduates choose to enter careers such as teaching, publishing and journalism, or to work in the business sector, often in human resources, administration, marketing or sales.

Successful alumni have gone on to teach English at elementary, secondary and tertiary levels in schools around the globe. A significant number of MA graduates have also continued their studies to PhD level.

Successful alumni have gone on to teach English at elementary, secondary and tertiary levels in schools around the globe. A significant number of MA graduates have also continued their studies at PhD level.