Applied Linguistics (MA) - 2013/2014 entry

This programme is designed to train qualified students and experienced people interested in working professionally with language. It will enable you to carry out intensive study of both applied and theoretical aspects of linguistics and undertake empirical and/or theoretical research into language and language behaviour. We offer research supervision in a variety of sub-disciplines: second language acquisition; bilingualism; sociolinguistics; psycholinguistics and neurolinguistics; pragmatics; linguistic analysis; cross-cultural communication; translation studies. Your dissertation can cover one or more of these areas.

We are committed to an ongoing programme of innovation in teaching and research, which makes extensive use of a sophisticated IT base. Staff specialise in research into various aspects of language use and language functions in both the individual and society at large. Teaching and research are characterised by a strong cross-linguistic perspective, with academic staff combining an interest in the theoretical underpinnings of their various disciplines with an awareness of the practical implications of those disciplines. All academic staff are active in state-of-the-art teaching and research, and applied linguistics at Birkbeck enjoys a strong international reputation for quality teaching and research.

The programme is suitable for students who wish to further their career prospects and professional development, who have an interest in doctoral research and aspire to work in higher education, as well as for those who are motivated by intellectual interests.

• Applied linguistics has been taught at Birkbeck since 1965 – making this one of the oldest departments in the world – by leading researchers in the field.
• Interdisciplinary and cross-cultural approach, with staff expertise in a wide range of sub-disciplines, from humanities to social sciences and life sciences.
• Strong research culture with a large number of PhD/MPhil students.

You will take the following compulsory modules, providing a grounding in linguistics and applied linguistics, as well as research methods training:

• Introduction to Applied Linguistics
• Research Methods and Design.

Option modules are chosen from a wide range of subjects, leading to specialisation in an area of focus for your research. These may include:

• Core Issues in Language Teaching and TESOL
• International Management Communication
• Issues in Translation
• Language, Culture and Communication
• Linguistic Analysis
• Marketing Communications: An Introduction 
• Professional and Business Communication
• Professional Development for Language Teaching
• Psycholinguistics of Second Language Acquisition and Bilingualism
• Sociolinguistics.

Note: option modules are subject to change.

Dissertation seminars and workshops provide support for the development of research skills.

We have a multimedia library and computing facilities. Birkbeck Library has a large holding of books, as well as over 40 current print journal subscriptions in the subject area, with an additional 100 available electronically. We are located within walking distance of libraries at the Institute of Education, School of Oriental and African Studies, University College London and Senate House. Students benefit from intercollegiate seminars and lectures offered by various departments located in Bloomsbury. There is an active student-run Linguistics Society, which hosts events and speakers throughout the year.

Find out more about the student support and facilities we offer.

If you are not yet ready for a Masters programme then why not take our part-time, one year GradCert Linguistics Studies programme to get a stronger foundation in applied linguistics and communication.

If you are interested in further research, we offer a PhD/MPhil in Applied Linguistics. 

Graduates go on to careers in language teaching and education, publishing, translating and interpreting, and education management.

• We recommend you apply as early as possible. Later applications may also be considered, subject to availability of places.