Postgraduate study in Applied Linguistics
What you can study in Applied Linguistics
Applied Linguistics formulates theory and research-based solutions to real world language problems. It is an interdisciplinary field of enquiry that draws on linguistics, psycholinguistics, second language acquisition, sociolinguistics and education.
We take as our starting point practical issues such as "How can multilingualism be fostered in a society such as New Zealand?", "In what ways can classroom learners of foreign languages be motivated to learn?" and "How can language proficiency be fairly and validly assessed?" and seek research-based answers.
The Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics has been designed to ensure that you receive a broad coverage of the areas that inform the study of Applied Linguistics, and to also give you the opportunity to focus on a specific area of your own choice. It provides a firm theoretical and research basis for progression to study at doctoral level.
The MA in Applied Linguistics aims to:
- Provide you with a sound knowledge base in the key areas of enquiry in Applied Linguistics.
- Develop your ability to utilise technical knowledge from a variety of areas to address real-world problems concerning the learning, use, teaching and assessment of language.
- Equip you with the research skills needed to investigate real-world problems concerning the learning, use, teaching and assessment of language.
Entry requirements
Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics
120-point (one-year) MA
A BA(Hons) or PGDipArts in Language Teaching/TESOL, or in Linguistics, or a language, or another relevant subject, or a PGDipLT, or equivalent. You must have a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher.
The following subject may also be considered for entry: Language Education in any language.
Students who are not native speakers of English and who have not had at least two years of secondary or tertiary education with English as the language of instruction will need a minimum of 6.5 IELTS (Academic) or equivalent.
If you are completing the 120-point thesis you must submit an outline of your proposed research when you apply. When enrolled you will prepare a detailed research proposal while auditing a course in research methods. Once your research proposal is accepted, you will carry out the research and prepare the thesis.
180-point (18-month) MA
Either:
- A bachelors degree with a major in Language Teaching/TESOL, or in Linguistics, or a language, or other relevant subject with the approval of the Academic Head or nominee.
- A bachelors degree and at least two years of second language teaching experience.
You must have a Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher in 75 points above Stage II including at least 45 points in the major. The following subject may also be considered for entry: Language Education in any language.
Students who are not native speakers of English and who have not had at least two years of secondary or tertiary education with English as the language of instruction will need a minimum of 6.5 IELTS (Academic) or equivalent.
Structuring your specialisation in Applied Linguistics
Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics
Consult the MA schedule for how to structure your study and for the courses you may take.
Courses
Explore the courses you can take as part of a specialisation in Applied Linguistics:
Scholarships and awards
Help and advice
Our friendly staff will provide you with advice on planning your degree and enrolling in your courses at Student Hubs.
If you would like to find out more about studying Applied Linguistics, you can contact a Postgraduate Adviser.