Applied Multilingualism

The MSc in Applied Multilingualism is designed to cater for increasing linguistic diversity in communities in Ireland, the EU and globally. Multilingualism is defined as using more than one language or being able to function, at some level, in more than one language. Some people grow up in multilingual communities where they acquire multiple languages from early on, while others learn additional languages later in life. Different language circumstances have a different impact on individuals and communities. This innovative new programme welcomes Irish and international students alike.  



The main aims of the programme are to:



Provide a learning environment and experience that fosters problem-solving, critical thinking and critical reflection in understanding, planning and catering for diverse multilingual people and their communities. 



Develop students’ professional competencies in the field of multilingualism within the boundaries of professional accountability and critically examine their professional role and expertise.



Encourage students to develop their own professional and research interests and to demonstrate their knowledge and capability to critique current literature, adopt best-practice and develop, undertake and disseminate research in the field of multilingualism.



Develop advanced skills and flexibility in attitudes that will enable students to manage projects related to and in collaboration with people from diverse backgrounds and language experiences to maximise the quality of life and well-being of those groups.



Stimulate and support academically oriented students further develop their academic career through a structured PhD in the field of multilingualism.  

Year 1 (90 Credits)

Optional SL5102: Using evidence to inform practice - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional FR562: Advanced Language Skills I (French) - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional NG6110: Teanga na Gaeilge - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional GR130: Beginners German Language 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional SL5111: Cultural Awareness in Research - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional SH562: Advanced Language Skills I (Spanish) - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional IT562: Advanced Language Skills I (Italian) - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional IT6103: Language for Environmental Futures II - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional FR6101: Language, Gender and Power - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional SL5112: Cultural, Linguistic & Social Diversity (Supplement) - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional CI1100: An Introduction to Chinese Language & Culture 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional IT124: Italian Language 1 - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Optional GDT1011: Irish for Beginners - 5 Credits - Semester 1

Required HP832: Research Methods - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Required SL5012: Dissertation in Applied Multilingualism - 30 Credits - Semester 1

Required SL5011: Cultural, Linguistic and Social Diversity - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Required SL5010: Psycholinguistics of Multilingualism - 10 Credits - Semester 1

Optional SL5101: Narratives in Childhood - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional MIC6100: Resisting through Culture: Conflicts in Europe and Beyond - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional FR563: Advanced Language Skills 2 (French) - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional IT6101: Audiovisual Translation: Interlingual Subtitling - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional GR131: Beginners German Language 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional SH563: Advanced Language Skills II (Spanish) - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional IT563: Advanced Language Skills 2 (Italian) - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional IT6100: Applied Multilingualism: Theoretical Perspectives and Practical Approaches - 10 Credits - Semester 2

Optional IT125: Italian Language 2 - 5 Credits - Semester 2

Optional GDT1012: Irish for Beginners - 5 Credits



- Semester 2

Required NG6112: Sociolinguistics of Multilingualism - 10 Credits - Semester 2

1 year, full-time

2 years, part-time

Next start date: September 2026

Increasingly multilingual societies are creating demand for professionals in the fields of health, education, public administration and NGOs who are equipped to work with multilingual populations. Furthermore, improving language skills is relevant for those intending to seek employment in the areas of language planning and policy, language teaching, cultural and heritage institutions, government and diplomacy. Possible career avenues include:



Health professionals providing services to multilingual populations



Educational professionals working with multilingual populations



NGO staff working with linguistic diversity



Organisations working with minority languages and language planning



International organisations specialising in language policy (EU, UNESCO, OSCE, etc.)



Civil servants employed in administrations with a remit to serve more than then one language community



Employees in diplomatic services and cultural/heritage organisations



Academic/research careers