About this course
Examine the fundamentals of language, and study issues in teaching methodology, on this MA Applied Linguistics for Language Teaching master's degree.
You'll investigate current theories in training and learning languages, and we'll show you how to apply these to your teaching practices.
This degree will open paths to teaching in the UK or starting a career overseas.
If you're a language professional in a school or other education setting, this course will help you:
- develop a comparative perspective on language education policy and practice
- learn the skills needed to challenge professional practice
- undertake research and innovation in a range of applied language fields
The MA Applied Linguistics for Language Teaching is offered by our Centre for Applied Language Research. Staff contributing to the programme are involved in:
- direct teaching of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and other languages
- research and development work in applied linguistics and language learning
- sociolinguistics and cultural studies
This blend of theoretical expertise and ongoing practical experience is one of the distinguishing features of our programme.
On completion of the course, you’ll be ready for a rewarding career as a language teacher, language teaching educator, or applied linguistics researcher.
Flexible study
If you prefer, you can apply to study this course as:
- a part-time master's - study the same course content over 2 or more years
Your modules and fees may vary if you choose a different study option.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Course lead
?zgür ?ahan is your course lead. His research interests include language assessment and second language writing.
Learn more about this subject area
Course location
This course is based at Avenue.
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载.
天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
You'll need a 2:1 degree in one of the following subjects:
- english
- linguistics
- modern languages
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Pre-masters
If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus. Learn more about the programmes available.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
You'll study this full-time master's degree over 12 months.
In the first 9 months (semesters 1 and 2) you’ll study the taught part of your course.
This is made up of modules that everyone on the course takes, and modules we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options. We’ll also begin preparing you for your independent research project and dissertation.
For the last 3 months, over the summer, you’ll work independently to research and write your dissertation. You’ll have one-to-one meetings with your supervisor during this time to discuss your progress.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules :
Dissertation (ALLT/ELT)
The Masters dissertation gives you the opportunity to undertake an extended piece of independent research in Applied Linguistics or English Language Teaching, with guidance from a supervisor.
Introduction to Research in Applied Linguistics
In this module, we explore some key concepts and ‘ways of knowing’ which are central to taking a research perspective on language use, learning and teaching: the nature of theory, data, ‘truth’, idealisation, modelling, and falsification. We study rationa...
Research Skills
The aims of this module are to further develop the research, study and time management skills you will need for a substantial independent research investigation.
Second Language Learning
This module introduces the different theoretical approaches which have been adopted for studying the acquisition of language, and examines and assesses current theories of first and second language acquisition in the light of empirical evidence.
You must also choose from the following modules :
Analysing Language for ELT/TESOL
This module encourages you to reflect on the analysis of the structure of language and its relationships to language teaching. It will demonstrate the kinds of analytic processes employed in linguistic analysis and identify the relationships between gramm...
Assessment of Language Proficiency
A range of key constructs in assessment theory and currently popular techniques in assessing language proficiency are reviewed and critically discussed. The overall processes involved in designing and implementing assessment procedures which are valid, re...
Autonomy and Individualisation in Language Learning
This course explores the themes of learner autonomy, resourced-based and open and distance learning and their practical outworking in an institutional context. You will be encouraged to think through ways of facilitating learning and in particular to cons...
Corpus Linguistics for Language Teaching
The module introduces the foundations of corpus linguistics and the role of corpus linguistics in language teaching, which plays an increasingly important role in TESOL. The theoretical underpinnings of data-driven learning and diverse applications of cor...
Critical Appraisal of Language Teaching Methodologies
This module is for experienced teachers only (at least 2 years + teaching practice) as it draws extensively on students’ theoretical and practical knowledge of language teaching methodologies in specific national and institutional contexts with particular...
Current Issues in Language Teaching Methodology
After a brief historical overview of the origins and development of English language teaching, we study current academic discussions about the need to adapt language teaching methodologies to different environments (the so-called ‘post-method condition’)....
Digital Education and English Language Teaching
The module is intended to provide: a) a theory-based account of changes and innovations in technology which impact generally on the digital literacy skills and practices that students bring to class and, more specifically, on their potential implications...
Diversity, social justice and inclusion in language education
As language education seeks to prepare students to communicate in a world that is ever more interconnected, diverse and unequal, teachers and institutions are urged to explore how social justice-oriented pedagogies can help address forms of inequality, op...
English as a World Language
This module explores the rise of English to its current dominant status.
English as medium of instruction in global education
This module explores sociolinguistic and pedagogical dimensions of English Medium Education and CLIL classrooms around the world. EME/I is an umbrella term for multilingual education programmes where English is used as a medium of instruction to teach and...
Experiences of language teaching and learning: narrative inquiry in language education
This module introduces you to the study of storytelling, in different formats, as a way to gain knowledge, and as a powerful qualitative method to conduct research into our experience as language teachers and learners over the course of our careers.
Language and Intercultural Communication
This module will combine a theoretical understanding of intercultural communication with reflections and evaluations of your own intercultural experiences and applications of this to pedagogic settings and other practical settings.
Language ideologies in a globalising world
This module presents ideologies of English and other languages in the changing world where globalisation and the unprecedented spread of English are significant factors. It offers the opportunities of studying language ideologies in an extensive, comprehe...
Pragmatics in global contexts
Task-based Language Teaching
This module focuses on the principles and practices of task-based language teaching (TBLT) and its application in language education. In this module, we will explore the theoretical foundations, task design, classroom implementation, learner factors, and ...
Teaching and Researching Second Language Writing
The module examines the techniques of process, product, context, and instruction of writing in a second language. The first deals with composing and the writer in relation to the text; the second deals with the text produced, its structure and organisatio...
Understanding Statistics in Applied Linguistics Research
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- seminars and tutorials
- workshops
- IT training sessions
- information skills sessions
- independent research
Assessment
We'll assess you through a combination of:
- individual and group projects
- presentations
- workshop activities
- written assignments
- your dissertation
Dissertation
At the end of the programme, you will submit a 15,000-word dissertation demonstrating your ability to design and implement an independent research investigation.
Academic Support
You'll have access to:
- a personal academic tutor for general support
- online resources for study skills support, including an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) toolkit
- in-sessional EAP support classes
- a research supervisor to offer guidance throughout your dissertation
You'll also be invited to attend talks, seminars and workshops organised by:
Careers and employability
Employability skills
This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.
The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:
- Research
- Critical thinking
- Self-management
- Communication
- Teamwork
The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.
天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 skills overview
Career pathways
Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:
Local government,
national government bodies,
regional councils,
museums,
Libraries,
universities,
schools,
colleges,
Private Language Schools,
PR Companies,
Advertising Agencies,
Social Media Platforms,
Broadcasting,
Journalism.
- Speech and language therapist
- Applied linguistics researcher
- English as a foreign language teacher
- Further education teacher
- University lecturer
- Secondary school teacher
- Private tutor
- Government language specialist
- Archivist
- Education consultant
- Information officer
- Journalist
- Local government officer
- Marketing executive
- Media researcher
- Primary school teacher
- Public relations officer
- Social media manager
- Secondary school teacher
- University lecturer
- College lecturer
- Modern foreign languages teacher
Work experience opportunities
Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载.
Careers services and support
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV and interview skills and workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay ?9,250.
- EU and international students pay ?25,400.
Deposit
If you're an international student on a full-time course, we'll ask you to pay ?2,000 of your tuition fees in advance, as a deposit.
Your offer letter will tell you when this should be paid and provide full terms and conditions.
Find out about exemptions, refunds and how to pay your deposit on our tuition fees for overseas students page.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and any exams. The fee you pay will remain the same each year from when you start studying this course. This includes if you suspend and return.
Find out how to pay your tuition fees.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
10% alumni discount
If you’re a graduate of the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载, you could be eligible for a 10% discount on your postgraduate tuition fees.
Postgraduate Master’s Loans (UK nationals only)
This can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master's course. Find out if you're eligible.
天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 Arts and Humanities Deans Global Talent Scholarship
Ten scholarships of ?10,000 each are available to international students studying for an undergraduate degree or a postgraduate master’s degree in Arts and Humanities.
Find out more about the 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 Arts and Humanities Deans Global Talent Scholarship, including eligibility, deadlines and how to apply.
Other postgraduate funding options
A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
- Use the blue 'apply for this course' button on this page to take you to our postgraduate admissions system.
- Create an account which gives you access to your own application portal. .
- Search for the course you want to apply for.
- Complete the application form and upload any supporting documents.
- Pay the ?50 application assessment fee, (there are some exemptions, check terms and conditions).
- Submit your application.
For further details of our admission process, read our step by step guide to postgraduate taught applications.
Application deadlines
UK students
The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 9 September 2025, midday UK time.
We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.
International students
The deadline to apply for this course is Tuesday 26 August 2025, midday UK time.
We advise applying early as applications may close before the expected deadline if places are filled.
Application assessment fee
We’ll ask you to pay a ?50 application assessment fee if you’re applying for a postgraduate taught course.
This is an extra one-off charge which is separate to your tuition fees and is payable per application. It covers the work and time it takes us to assess your application. You’ll be prompted to pay when you submit your application which won’t progress until you've paid.
If you're a current or former University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 student, or if you’re applying for certain scholarships, you will not need to pay the fee. PGCE applications through GOV.UK and Master of Research (MRes) degree applications are also exempt. Find out if you’re exempt on our terms and conditions page.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
References are not required for this programme.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
What happens after you apply
You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.
We will aim to send you a decision 6 weeks after you have submitted your application.
If we offer you a place, you will need to accept the offer within 30 working days. If you do not meet this deadline, we will offer your place to another applicant.
Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.
We may invite you to an interview, which will take place by phone if you live abroad. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if we'd like to talk to you before offering you a place.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000