Applied Linguistics (Teaching English as a Foreign Language)

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Can you learn a second language the same way you learned your mother tongue? What is the best way to test the language proficiency level of your students? Find out in this programme.

This one-year Master's programme focuses on foreign language teaching. It offers theoretical insights to help assess language-teaching methods and applied linguistics research. You will study the process of learning and the use of second languages. The programme allows you to focus your research on yourlanguage of choice, for instance Dutch as a second language, but also French, German, Swedish, Chinese, or any other language.

You will approach second language acquisition from many different angles, including psychology, social interaction and language teaching. You will be introduced to the field of linguistics, language acquisition and language teaching theory.

The program focuses especially on Dynamic System Theory, which explains how cultural differences become bodily differences. You will learn about the social, cultural and political processes that play a role in using a language or that may cause the use of a second language to decline. You will explore didactic applications of recent research and theoretical developments, and learn about computer assisted language learning.

Programme schedule
Courses

* Research Methodology Appl. Linguistics (10 EC)

* Theory of 2nd Language Development (10 EC)

* Teaching Methodology/2nd Language Dev. (10 EC)

* Computer Assisted Language Learning (10 EC, optional)

* Master's Thesis in Applied Linguistics (20 EC)

* MA Work Placement in Applied Linguistics (10 EC, optional)

Study abroad

* Study abroad is optional

Why in Groningen?
The MA Applied Linguistics at the University of Groningen is a unique programme focussing on the processes involved in second language learning, as well as teaching theories. The programme encompasses various fields of study, as learning and using a second language may be approached from many different angles. Students will explore and discuss the factors that relate to second language development, including cognition, psychology, social interaction, language teaching, and culture.

In addition to theoretical and teaching paradigms, students will also take classes in the research practices and methodology essential for conducting applied linguistics studies and research. These classes will act as the foundation from which students will be able to conduct their own applied linguistics research in the form of the MA thesis in Semester 2.The MA Applied Linguistics is a truly international programme, welcoming students from all over the world. The classes are taught entirely in English, and students are encouraged to use their own language experiences as the basis for their individual linguistic enquiries and research.Our degree programme is small, which means that students benefit from small, intimate classes and close collaborative relationships with the other students as well as instructors.

BA in modern languages, linguistics or education. To assess whether your educational/academic background meets the specific programme requirements, we will consider the level and curriculum of your previous studies, and the grades that you have obtained. This evaluation is carried out by our Admissions Office and the Admissions Board. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 7 TOEFL paper-based test score : 620

Funding opportunities
Several scholarships are available for international students who are motivated to study Bachelors, Masters and PhD programmes, as well as for exchanges, short courses and research stays at our university.