Master of Arts - Applied Linguistics

Applied linguistics addresses real-life language problems through insights gained from current linguistic theory, psychology and education. This University of Essex MA is designed for people who want to know more about how foreign or second languages (particularly English) are learned, and how different kinds of classroom practice might affect proficiency. Students explore different approaches to understanding language and language acquisition, and the methods that can be used to investigate language learning and teaching. Students select a mixture of modules on language learning and its application to classroom practices.

Students can choose areas of special study from a wide range of options, including: teaching speaking and listening skills to language learners, psychological factors in second language learning, literature and language-learning, and age and bilingual development.

Students also be part of the Centre for Research in Language Development throughout the Lifespan (LaDeLi), a unique research centre specializing in all aspects of language learning and development. Essex is a leading UK university for language and linguistics research, a place where talented students become part of an academic community in which the majority of research is rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’. They are also ranked 13th in the UK for Linguistics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject (2020).

Essex's course can lead to careers in areas such as academic research, publishing, journalism, administration, public service and teaching. Students develop key employability skills including research design, data analysis, thinking analytically, report writing and public speaking.