Skip to the content

MA/PgDip Applied Linguistics
MA/PgDip Applied Linguistics for English Language Teaching (ELT)
MA/PgDip Applied Linguistics for Translation

What's it about?

The MA/PG Dip in Applied Linguistics is for applicants who are interested in developing a systematic understanding of how language works. The programme combines grounding in central areas of theoretical linguistics with a foundation in applied language study. A number of options are also available through elective modules.

The MA/Pg Dip in Applied Linguistics for English Language Teaching offers applicants a unique opportunity to combine elements from the Applied Linguistics programme with elements from the TESOL programme. It is designed for students who are primarily interested in developing a systematic understanding of how language works, but who are also interested in learning about English language teaching.

The MA/Pg Dip in Applied Linguistics for Translation is available for the following languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, German and Spanish. This pathway offers applicants a unique opportunity to combine elements from the Applied Linguistics programme with elements from the MAs in:

MA/PgDip Arabic/English Translation
MA/PgDip Chinese / English / Chinese Translation
MA/PgDip Interpreting and Translating
MA/PgDip Translating
MA/PgDip Translating for International Business

 

Who is it for?

The programme is designed to meet the needs of applicants who would like to learn more about the English language and how it works. It is particularly suitable for students who want to become teachers of English, or professional translators, or who want to go on to other work related to these fields. It is also ideal for students who wish to go on to doctoral research.

 

Key Benefits

  • Grounding in central areas of theoretical linguistics: phonetics and phonology, morphology and syntax, semantics and pragmatics.
  • A foundation in applied linguistics: psycholinguistics and second language acquisition.
  • A wide range of practical and theoretical options relating to TESOL/ELT.
  • Practical translation options involving English and Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian and Spanish.
  • Theoretical options relating to translation.
  • Students will benefit from the School of Languages’ Centre for Linguistics and Applied Linguistics.
  • State-of-the-art Language Resource Centre, including Conference Interpreting booths, satellite television and Multimedia equipment.

 

How will I learn?

The programme is built around a suite of core and elective modules and your options depend upon which of the three pathwyas you choose to follow. The core programme involves foundation modules in Linguistucs, Psycholinguistics and the Psychology of Language Learning. Beyond this you can choose to focus on either ELT or Translation. The programme also allows you to focus on either more theoretical or more practical aspects of ELT. Full-time students take a total of eight modules over two semesters. A variety of teaching and learning methods are employed, including lectures, seminars, workshops, personal study and research

For the programme structure and module descriptions please click the 'Programme Structure' tab above.

 

How will I be assessed?

All modules are assessed by coursework and\or by examinations.

 

Career progression

In addition to a wide range of careers within the fields of teaching, translation and consultancy, a number of the modules on the MA/PgDip Applied Linguistics are particularly suitable for students wishing to go onto a PhD.

Students intending to carry on from masters to doctoral study at Salford will receive dedicated support from the School in order to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Programme Structure: MA/PgDip Applied Linguistics

Number in brackets = credits

Semester 1

Semester 2

 Foundations of Linguistics I (15)

 

Research Methods in Linguistics and Language Teaching (15)

Foundations of Linguistics II (15)

Psychology of Language Learning (15)

Plus TWO options from:

Psycholinguistics (15)

English for Academic Purposes (for non-native speakers of English) (15)

Plus ONE option from:

Grammar and Vocabulary in ELT (15)

Inter-Cultural Issues in ELT (15)

  Materials Evaluation and Adaption (15) 

  Language Skills in ELT (15)

Classroom Studies in ELT (15)

Computers in ELT (15)

Teaching Approaches and Syllabus Design (15)

 

MA Dissertation (60 credits)

12-15000 Dissertation

 

Programme Structure: MA/PgDip Applied Linguistics for ELT

Semester 1

Semester 2

 Foundations of Linguistics I (15)

 

Research Methods in Linguistics and Language Teaching (15)

Foundations of Linguistics II (15)

Psychology of Language Learning (15)

Teaching Approaches and Syllabus Design (15)

Plus TWO options from:

Plus ONE option from:

Psycholinguistics (15)

Grammar and Vocabulary in ELT (15)

Inter-Cultural Issues in ELT (15)

  Materials Evaluation and Adaption (15) 

  Language Skills in ELT (15)

Classroom Studies in ELT (15)

Computers in ELT (15)

English for Academic Purposes (for non-native speakers of English) (15)

 

MA Dissertation (60 credits)

12-15000 Dissertation

 

 

Programme Structure: MA/PgDip Applied Linguistics for Translation

Semester 1

Semester 2

 Foundations of Linguistics I (15)

 

Psycholinguistics (15)

Foundations of Linguistics II (15)

Psychology of Language Learning (15)

Specialised Translation with Translation Technology (30)

Lexicography and Terminology (15)

Plus ONE option from:

 

Research Methods in Linguistics and Language Teaching (15)

 

 Research Methodologies and Approaches in Translation and Interpreting Studies (15)

 

Tranlsation Project Management and Professional Skills (15)

 

 

MA Dissertation (60 credits)

12-15000 Dissertation

 

Who will teach me?

Our staff have extensive experience in their chosen fields and many of them are researchers in areas directly relevant to the modules which they deliver.

Staffing for modules is subject to change, but currently the modules are delivered by the following members of staff:

 

When does the term start?

There is one entry point each year. All our programmes start in September.


How is part-time study structured?

This involves taking 50% of modules in the first year with the remaining 50% in the second year. The period allowed for writing up the dissertation is doubled. We encourage applications from part-time students but this is not usually available to international students because of visa restrictions.

 

What are the English language requirements for international students?

International applicants must provide evidence of proficiency in English unless they have a BA from an English speaking country. This normally takes the form of an IELTS 6.5 (with a writing band no lower than 6). Equivalent qualifications will also be considered. These include a TOEFL score of 575 or above (232 computer-based) with a TWE of 4 or above and\or a pass at upper-intermediate level in Salford’s pre-sessional (Summer) English Study Programme. This programme is available at discount rates to students who go on to study their masters in the School of Languages.


Do I have to pay in full at the beginning?

No! It is usually possible to spread the costs. Arrangements for payment vary depending on your circumstances, for further details click here and follow the link which is relevant to you.


Are there any scholarships?

Yes! The School of Languages we offer what we believe to be an unparalleled range of scholarships and fee exemptions to students beginning their studies in September 2008. These complement the University's own generous financial support package and scholarship schemes. Find out more about School of Languages funding.

 

How do I apply?

Apply Online or download and fully complete the postgraduate taught application form and send it to the address specified on the form.


What happens after I have applied?

On receipt of your application the University we will write to let you know whether we are able to offer you a place on the programme. Such an offer will be either unconditional or conditional. We will then ask you to complete an acceptance form and return it to us. If you meet any of the specified conditions before you come to us then send the University a copy of the supporting documentation so it can change your offer letter to an unconditional one.


Is there a deadline?

We receive applications up to and including induction week in September, but you are strongly advised to apply at your earliest convenience in order to secure your place and begin making arrangements.


Can I visit the School?

You are welcome to visit either on one of our postgraduate open days or by prior appointment with the admissions tutor.

 

Can you suggest some useful links?

Visit our Accommodation Office Once you have received an offer from us you will be able to book your accommodation (if required) on-line.  We recommend Matthias Court and Cosmopolitan Student Homes to our postgraduate students.

We are members of the International Association of Teachers of English as a Foreign Language (IATEFL) and students are encouraged to attend and\or deliver papers at its annual conference.

We are members of the British Association for Applied Linguistics  and students are encouraged to attend and\or deliver papers at its annual conference.  

The city of Manchester is a vibrant, cosmopolitan and student-friendly place to study. Discover more about life in Manchester.

Key Information


Duration

(Due to course changes taking place in 2012 we are unable to accept part-time registrations for September 2011)

MA

Full-time: One year minimum
Part-time: Three years

PgDip

Full-time: Nine months
Part-time: Two years

Start date

All our programmes start in September

Programme Structure

All our full-time programmes initially involve two semesters' tuition (generating 120 credits). Students who successfully complete this stage of the programme will be eligible to receive a Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip).

To complete the programme to MA level, this is then followed by a 60 credit dissertation (of approximately 15,000 words) written in English and prepared over the summer.

Teaching hours

During the taught section of the programme full-time students will typically receive 12-14 contact hours per week and are expected to undertake additional hours of independent study.

Students that wish to complete the programme to MA level will also attend skills seminars during semester two.

Entry requirements

  • A good, relevant honours degree (or equivalent)
  • Applicants for the Translation pathway should be native speakers of Arabic, Chinese, English, French, German, Italian or Spanish and be able to demonstrate a high level of competence in the chosen foreign language
  • Native speakers of a language other than English must provide evidence of proficiency in English
  • We welcome applications from students with alternative qualifications and/or significant relevant experience, subject to approval through a process of Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
  • Early application is advised
  • Two references are required with applications

 

Fees

Information coming soon for 2012/13 entry

 

Further information

UK/EU
T +44 (0) 161 295 4545
F +44 (0) 161 295 4646
course-enquiries@salford.ac.uk

International/Non EU
T +44 (0) 161 295 4545
international-enquiries@salford.ac.uk