Applied Linguistics - Structured

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.



Strong International Reputation

The core educational principle of the programme is that it will be research-led and will entail engaging with cutting-edge research across a range of sub-fields of Applied Linguistics. This will mean promoting enquiry-based learning by posing real world problems relating to language use and acquisition. The fostering of critical thinking is also core to the educational principles of the programme. Students will be challenged throughout the programme to engage critically with received models of language use and acquisition. A range of pedagogical strategies will be deployed to promote active research-led learning and scholarship. Residential summer schools will also be a key component of the programme and will allow students to engage with high profile Applied Linguists and also to present their own research, with the aim of fostering their development as independent researchers.



The course lecturers on Stage 1 (Taught component and Research Proposal Development stage) of the programme include internationally renowned Dr Anne O'Keeffe and Dr Brian Clancy (both from Mary Immaculate College). The course will also include guest webinars by Prof. Michael McCarthy, Scott Thornbury, Prof. Steve Walsh, Geraldine Mark, Dr Ivor Timmis, and others.



Mary Immaculate College has a strong international reputation for research in the area of Applied Linguistics, especially in its sub-field of Corpus Linguistics, and it has a vibrant doctoral level research profile within its Inter-Varietal Applied Corpus Studies (IVACS) research centre. Its degrees are awarded by the University of Limerick and are internationally recognised.



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.

Semester 1 (Year 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 (Year 1) - 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.

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.



English Language Requirements

Applicants for whom English is not a first language must provide evidence of their proficiency level in English in the form of an IELTS (International English Language Testing System) composite score of 6.5 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.

How to Apply

Please send proposal drafts for review to Programme Coordinator, Dr Joan O'Sullivan, before submitting your application.



Email: Joan.OSullivan@mic.ul.ie.



EU Applicants

After you have read How to Apply for a Research Postgraduate programme at MIC, please complete all the steps below:



Download and complete the application form here.

Please pay the non-refundable €50 application fee here using Stripe, and return the completed application along with the supporting documents below by email to RGSO@mic.ul.ie, copying Joan.OSullivan@mic.ul.ie.

What to include with your Application



You will be required to send:



University transcripts and certificates

If English is not your first language/language of qualification, you will require:

English translation of transcript/qualification

Your English Language Competency Certificate (Academic IELTS or equivalent)

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

Autumn semester 2024 intake is now open for applications.

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.