MA/PgDip TESOL and Applied Linguistics

What's it about?

The MA/Postgraduate diploma in TESOL and Applied Linguistics combines a grounding in central areas of theoretical linguistics with a foundation in applied language study. It also allows you to focus on practical and theoretical aspects of TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages).

Who is it for?

It 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, 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

Combines theoretical insights in language teaching and learning with practical applications.
Programme of professional development seminars, visits, and opportunities for informal teaching practice.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the main issues but allows for further specialisation at the dissertation stage.
Research-informed teaching.
Opportunities to attend Linguistics research seminar series and masterclasses
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 modules. Full-time students take a total of four 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?

Most modules are assessed entirely by coursework assignements. A small number of modules are assessed by coursework and by examinations.

Career progression

Graduates of this programme frequently go on to work as English language teachers, directors of study and education managers in schools, colleges and universities.

Some students may go on to further study by research (MPhil), or a doctorate (PhD).

Programme Structure: MA/PgDip TESOL and Applied Linguistics

Number in brackets = credits

MA/PgDip TESOL and Applied Linguistics

Semester 1	Semester 2
Language Structure and Use (30)	Materials and Technology (30)
Second Language Learning and Teaching (30)	Research Methods for TESOL and Applied Linguistics (30)
MA Dissertation (60 credits)
Select One from: 12-15000 Dissertation 12-15000 Project

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 700 or above or a pass at upper-intermediate level in Salford’s pre-sessional (Summer) English Study Programme.

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.

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 University 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.

Helena Stakounis

Having had a few years teaching practice, I decided I needed to have a higher qualification to support my practical experience. I chose Salford because I did not want to join a red brick university that would provide me only with theories and not practical skills. I also chose Salford because the teachers and staff were really responsive and friendly and made me feel valued.

The courses I attended were all extremely well prepared and thought out. It meant that I could also take some of the ideas and teaching methods of the teachers to use in my own teaching practice. The course content was always very well balanced between theory and practical information. What I liked most was that the classes were always interactive, which may feel like more hard work at the time, but it meant that I was able to increase my confidence in the classroom, speaking in front of others and interacting with people of different nationalities. Working with such a multicultural class of people also prepared me perfectly for teaching English as I was able to open my mind to many different cultures and make new friends and connections worldwide. Salford University provided me with a great network of international friends, which has later enabled me to begin my own language school.

As I had taught before the course, the classes enabled me to fill the gaps in my knowledge of the theories of teaching and be able to understand the reasons behind why we use certain techniques and methods in the classroom. Now, when I teach, I am able to justify to myself why I am teaching the way I am. I am also able to provide my students with tips and advice for studying language, safe in the knowledge that the information I am giving them is backed up by the language learning facts and science I learned whilst doing the MA. I can safely say that the information, techniques, skills and confidence I gained during the TESOL course I use every single day in my teaching practice.

I would and always do recommend this course to anyone who asks about it. The experience with Salford was the complete package for me and was the springboard for me really launching my career. I will be eternally grateful.

Kate

[Before studying for my MA I had a] BA in English, Science and Technology [and had been a] teacher of English for one year.

The best thing in this programme is that the course is designed to maximize integrating theoretical knowledge to practice, helping each student thoroughly understand the rationale so that we can effectively apply what we have studied to our real teaching. The abstruse principles are well combined with practical samples and illustrations.

The course developed me to a master-level degree within a shorter time than in other English-speaking countries.

The lecturers and tutors are all qualified and experienced teachers and gave us premium learning experience. Besides, all the teachers [were] concerned about each student and encouraged us to make further progress. Without their guidance and encouragement, we would not have been able to make such big improvements.

We had opportunities to observe real practice of Foreign Languages Teaching at local colleges, which enriched our learning experiences.

We also had opportunities to meet ELT practitioners in the UK since the school organised for us to attend regular meetings with NATESL (Northern Association of Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) where teachers and students can exchange their experiences and ideas, which contributes towards the development of English Language Teaching.

It is an ideal choice to study at the School of Languages at The University of Salford to further your education in the field of Language teaching. The School of Languages is equipped with sufficient teaching and learning materials with qualified teachers and up-to-date advanced technology. The courses are kept up-to-date with the development of contemporary language teaching, so what you will be learning will never be out of date.

If you would like to find out more about Kate’s experiences of studying at the School of Languages please e-mail her at: katefu@tom.com

To read about other students' experiences click here

Key Information

Duration

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

PgDip

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

Start date

All our programmes start in September

Programme Structure

A student who successfully completes the eight taught modules over the two semesters will obtained the required 120 credits and will be entitled to a PG Diploma in TESOL and Applied Linguistics. In order to obtain the Masters degree the student must write a dissertation (worth 60 credits), but this cannot begin until a student has successfully completed the taught elements of the programme.

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) such as education, languages or linguistics. In some cases a diploma is acceptable
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