Applied Linguistics and English Language

How is the programme structured?

Our MSc has four components:

1. Core courses in contemporary English Language and English Linguistics and TESOL
2. Advanced study in two subject areas
3. Short dissertation
4. Research Training

1. Core courses in contemporary English Language and English Linguistics and TESOL

The key background teaching takes place in Semester 1 with the following courses:

Group A
Discourse Studies, Phonetics, Sociolinguistics

Group B
Classroom Processes:  Introduction to Teaching and Learning (for novice teachers)
or
Language Learning and Applications in the Classroom (for mid-career professionals)

The courses are taught through lectures, tutorials, and workshops. Each topic is assessed by means of a portfolio of essays submitted at the end of the Semester.

2. Advanced study in two subject areas.

Students select two subject areas from to study at an advanced level in Semester 2. These subjects are taught in a range of formats including small group tutorials and individual supervisions.   The courses include Language Variation and Change, Text Analysis, Developing Professional Practice and Course Design and Practice in English Language Teaching.

3. Short Dissertation

From April to September, students work on a short dissertation (15,000 words) linking directly to work undertaken in Semester 2 with their supervisors. The Dissertation can be an end in itself, but it is envisaged that it can also act as a pilot-study for, or a component part of, a subsequent doctoral thesis. Your main focus for the Dissertation will be on English Language and English Linguistics, but may contain practical applications related to TESOL.

Dissertation topics that students have completed in English Language and English Linguistics in the last few years can be viewed here.

4. Research Training

A core Research Training Module is offered in conjunction with the Arts and Humanities Graduate School’s innovative Research Training Course and School of Critical Studies Postgraduate Training Course. These courses run during Semesters 1 & 2.