Applied Linguistics - Structured

Programme Overview

This doctoral programme in Applied Linguistics is a four-year, full-time programme which includes a combination of taught modules (in Year 1 of the programme) and individual research, the principal component being the doctoral thesis. In tandem with the doctoral thesis, this programme aims to enhance the professional knowledge of language teachers and language professionals by focusing on the core features of language as a system (grammar, lexis and phonology), language learning and acquisition, as well as language in its broader societal context.



Key Features

The taught component of the Structured PhD in Applied Linguistics (PhD AL) aims to provide a broad-based course of study in language description (language systems: grammar, lexis and phonology), theories of Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition, frameworks for the study of discourse, as well as specialist research skills for the empirical analysis of language in context. Specifically, it aims to:



• Enhance the professional knowledge of language teachers and language professionals by focusing on the core features of language as a system (grammar, lexis and phonology), language learning and acquisition, as well as language in its broader societal context.



• Develop students’ ability to utilise theoretical frameworks for the analysis of discourse to address specific language-related real-world problems concerning the learning, use, teaching and assessment of language;



• Promote an in-depth understanding of the key issues and debates in the field of Applied Linguistics;



• Develop specialist skills in the empirical analysis of language in context using corpus linguistics and other digital tools.



The taught modules will be offered in a face-to-face environment and blended learning will be used to offer flexibility for learners.



Programme Content

The taught component (Year 1) of the Structured PhD in Applied Linguistics aims to provide a broad-based course of study in language description (language systems: grammar, lexis and phonology), theories of Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition, frameworks for the study of discourse, as well as specialist research skills for the empirical analysis of language in context. Specifically, it aims to:



• Enhance the professional knowledge of language teachers and language professionals by focusing on the core features of language as a system (grammar, lexis and phonology), language learning and acquisition, as well as language in its broader societal context.



• Develop students’ ability to utilise theoretical frameworks for the analysis of discourse to address specific language-related real-world problems concerning the learning, use, teaching and assessment of language.



• Promote an in-depth understanding of the key issues and debates in the field of Applied Linguistics.



• Develop specialist skills in the empirical analysis of language in context using corpus linguistics and other digital tools.



Thesis: Research topics

Applied Linguistics covers a broad and diverse range of practical applications of the study of language in order to solve real world problems; this means that students can choose from a wide variety of research topics for specialisation. As well as second language acquisition, such topics can be based around areas such as professional communication, multilingualism, minority and endangered languages, language difficulties and language policy and planning.



Skills development

The programme fosters the development of generic and transferable skills, not only through the delivery of dedicated modules but by virtue of the PhD process as a whole, which cultivates team building, problem solving and analytical skills as well as developing skills in presentation and communication, and promoting creativity and critical inquiry—all of which are highly valued by employers.

Year 1

Semester 1 - Taught and Research

• Core Features of Language: Grammar, Vocabulary and Phonology

• Research Methods in Applied Linguistics

• Academic Writing: lexicogrammar and discourse



Choose one of the Elective modules* from this list:

• Introduction to Sociolinguistics

• Second Language Acquisition

• Introduction to Irish English



Semester 2 - Taught and Research

• Approaches to Language in Context

• Issues in Applied Linguistics

• Research Methods



Choose one of the Elective modules* from this list:

• Corpus Linguistics and Language Teaching

• Phonetics and Phonology

• Discourse and Pragmatics



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



Summer Semester (Years 1, 2, 3 & 4)

• Individual doctoral thesis work under supervision of designated supervisor and Doctoral Studies Panel

• Summer School



Semester 3-8 (Years 2-4)

• Individual doctoral thesis work

• Generic and transferable skills courses

Any one of the following criteria must be met for entry:

• A first class honours primary degree in Applied Linguistics or a related area, considered on a case-by-case basis.



• A 2.1 honours Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics or a related area.



• A 2.2 honours Master’s degree, plus two years’ experience in Language Teaching, publishing or translation, or related fields.



Alternatively, if you meet the below criteria, you may apply for MIC's MA in Applied Linguistics. You may then transfer to Year 2 of the Structured PhD in Applied Linguistics if you meet progression requirements including required grade average on this programme:



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



or



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



For English language requirements go to: https://www.mic.ul.ie/international/international/essential-information/english-language-requirements

How to Apply

To apply please see "Application Weblink" above.



Please send proposal drafts for review to Programme Coordinator, Dr Joan O'Sullivan, before submitting your application (Email: Joan.OSullivan@mic.ul.ie)



This programme is suitable for EU and Non-EU Applicants:

1. EU Applicants – Applicants from EU/Worked in EU for the last 3 years

2. Non-EU Applicants – Applicants living/working outside of the EU



Please ensure you read the information specific to your region below and follow the correct application route.



Contact

Programme Coordinator

Dr Joan O'Sullivan

+353 61 774735

Joan.OSullivan@mic.ul.ie

4 years full-time. Delivery Mode: Blended/Face to Face.

Career Opportunities

The programme creates a structured professional development opportunity for those working in the following areas:

• Language teaching and language education in general

• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) / Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)

• Learning materials editing and publishing

• Language course development

• Translation



The PhD AL is also key in the development of a structured pathway to an academic career in the area of Applied Linguistics and in building a strong research profile. A doctorate is required for most higher education faculty members, which includes both lecturers and researchers. The programme will also enhance opportunities in teaching and programme design at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in third level institutions.



Other careers associated with Applied Linguistics lie in the areas of communications, journalism, speech and language therapy, media and public relations.