Applied Linguistics with TESOL MA

You will study four core modules and two optional modules before completing your 15,000 word dissertation.

You will study four core modules:

This module provides a grounding in the analysis of the lexis and grammar of English. You are introduced to essential concepts and terminology in the field, and gain practice in analysing naturally-occurring language using the models (e.g. pattern grammar) discussed. There is some emphasis on the application of such analysis to the study of language in social context.
Assessment: 2 x 2,000-word essays

This module considers the problems involved in reconciling syllabus and materials design with what is known about the process of language learning and the attempts of established approaches to language syllabus design to solve such problems. The module examines a variety of approaches, including some relatively radical solutions, e.g. the establishment of a pedagogic corpus, the use of a task-based methodology, and the development of analytical exercises.
Assessment: 4,000-word essay

This module aims to provide you with a grounding in approaches to and methods of research in Applied Linguistics.
Assessment: Three-hour computer-based class test

You will also take one of the following:

This module explores the relationship between language and society, examining how variation in language structure is distributed across different aspects of society, for example, the correlation between the use of particular linguistic forms and social class groups, genders, age groups and geographical areas. The module considers the associations that develop between aspects of a speaker's identity and different linguistic forms, the role of prestige (overt and covert), stigmatisation and the significance of one's social networks and communities, and how these facets of variation lead to changes in the English language.
Assessment: One 4,000-word final project report or essay

Or

The aim of this module is to provide an overview of major topics and issues in psycholinguistics and cognitive studies of language. We look at how people produce and understand language; how language is organised in the mind and brain; the embodied and metaphorical basis for language; the relationship between language and thought and the significance of linguistic diversity; the development and acquisition of language; and the connection between language and gesture.
Assessment: One 4,000-word final project report or essay

You will also choose two optional modules from a range which typically includes:

• Bilingualism and Multilingualism in the TESOL Classroom
• Business Discourse and Communication
• Corpus Assisted Language Learning
• English as an International Language
• Issues in Intercultural Communication
• Language and Politics
• Language and Gesture
• Language and New Media
• Language, Gender and Identity
• Language Teaching Training
• Lexicography
• Psycholinguistics in TESOL

For more information, see our English Language and Linguistics module descriptions.

In addition to your taught modules, you will conduct a piece of independent research with the support of a supervisor, culminating in a 15,000-word dissertation.

In addition, you will be offered a course in Academic Writing. Those whose first language is not English are particularly encouraged to follow this course.

Please note that the optional module information listed on the website for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.