Applied Linguistics

Available fully online or blended.
This degree is level 9 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ) awarded by University of Limerick.
Places offered on the Taught MA Programme: Up to 25

The Master's in Applied Linguistics provides a broad-based course of study in language description (language systems: grammar, lexis and phonology), theories of Applied Linguistics, theories of Second Language Acquisition, frameworks for the study of discourse, sociolinguistics, as well as specialist research skills for the empirical analysis of language in context. While its main focus is on the use and teaching of the English language in a global context, it will address a national and international need for professional development among language teachers and language professionals.

Semester 1
Core Features of Language: Grammar, Vocabulary and Phonology
Research Methods in Applied Linguistics
Academic Writing: Lexicogrammar and Discourse
Plus one elective module* from this list:
Introduction to Sociolinguistics
Second Language Acquisition
Classroom and Learner Discourse
Introduction to Irish English

Semester 2
Approaches to Language in Context
Issues in Applied Linguistics
Research Methods
Plus one elective module* from this list:
Corpus Linguistics and Language Teaching
Phonetics and Phonology
Discourse and Pragmatics
Analysing Media Discourse

* Electives will be offered on the basis of there an adequate level of student uptake

Semester 3
Dissertation (20,000 words)

•A 2.2 honours primary degree, plus two years' experience in Language Teaching, publishing or translation, or related fields.

•Relevant prior experience in Language Teaching, publishing or translation, or related fields considered on a case-by-case basis.

English Language Requirements
Applicants for whom English is not a first language must provide evidence of their proficiency level English in the form of an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) composite score of 6.5 – 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in any one component, or IELTS equivalent accepted by UL. Such applicants will also be required to undergo an interview through English.

Applications for January 2021 entry now open. Closing date: 15th January 2021

Typically, the course will run over three 12-week semesters. Semesters 1 and 2 will each have four taught modules (lectures and course work). Semester 3 will be dedicated to the writing of a dissertation. The three semesters can be taken back-to-back in one calendar year (September–August), using the summer period for the dissertation module.

Alternatively, the course can be taken over one and a half years. Part-time options are also available. Each module will involve ongoing assessment, such as essays and oral presentations. For those students opting for the blended and online delivery formats, the assessments will have online options for completion.