Applied Linguistics

The Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics at Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a comprehensive and internationally recognized program designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in the field of language study and language-related applications. This program aims to prepare graduates for diverse careers in language teaching, language assessment, translation and interpreting, language consulting, and language policy development in multilingual and multicultural contexts. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with hands-on experience, emphasizing the analysis of language in real-world settings, language acquisition, computational linguistics, and language technology.

Students will explore core topics such as phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, alongside specialized courses covering language teaching methodology, second language acquisition, discourse analysis, and sociolinguistics. The program fosters a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from psychology, education, communication, and computer science to address contemporary challenges in language use and education. Through a combination of coursework, research projects, and practical training, students develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills necessary for innovative solutions in language-related fields.

The program often offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as bilingual education, speech and language therapy, computational linguistics, or intercultural communication, allowing students to tailor their learning pathway according to their career goals. NTU’s state-of-the-art facilities, expert faculty members, and extensive industry connections ensure that students receive a high-quality education that is both academically rigorous and professionally relevant. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to contribute to language education and research, influence language policy, or pursue doctoral studies in linguistics or related disciplines. The MA in Applied Linguistics at NTU is an ideal choice for individuals passionate about language and interested in making meaningful contributions to the multilingual and globalized world of today.

CORE COURSE

•  Research Methodology in Applied Linguistics

REQUIRED SPECIALIZATION COURSES

• Discourse Studies
• Language Acquisition Studies
• Language Curriculum Development
• Sociolinguistic Perspectives on the Classroom

LANGUAGE EDUCATION RESEARCH ELECTIVES (AT LEAST ONE; NOT MORE THAN THREE)

• Classroom Discourse Analysis
• Language Across the Curriculum
• Language Teacher Education
• Literature and Language Education
• Oracy Development and Research
• Research in Teaching Written Discourse
• Second Language Classroom Learning
• Critical Literacy: Theory into Practice in the Language Classroom
• The History and Practice of Reading
• Bilingualism and Biliteracy: Theory and Practice
• Psycholinguistics

LANGUAGE STUDIES ELECTIVES (AT LEAST ONE; NOT MORE THAN THREE)

• Culture and Conventions of Academic Writing
• Corpora in Applied Linguistics
• English as an International Language
• Literacies in Society
• Systemic Functional Linguistics
• Theory and Research in Literacy Education
• Topics in Pragmatics
• Second Language Phonology

CLASSROOM APPLICATIONS ELECTIVES (AT LEAST ONE; NOT MORE THAN TWO)*

• Language Teaching Methodology
• Language Testing and Assessment
• Materials Design and Development
• Second Language Reading Pedagogy

Requirements

• A Bachelor's degree from a recognised university, either with English Language Studies, Linguistics or in a relevant field (with evidence of adequate knowledge in language studies).
• Teaching qualifications and teaching experience, while preferred, are not required for admission.
• TOEFL Minimum score of 580 (for paper and pencil examination) or 237 (for computer-based test) or 92 (for internet-based).
• IELTS Minimum score of 6.5
• Hardcopy printout of the Application Form, signed at the Affirmation Section and affixed a Passport-sized photograph on the Application Form
• Photocopy of your National Registration Identity Card (NRIC)(front and back). If you do not have an NRIC, please provide a copy of your passport information page(s)(containing the passport number, name, etc.)
• Completed Photo Form
• Completed Coursework Supplementary Form
• Photocopy of Degree Scrolls / Certificates (Master’s Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, Postgraduate Diploma in Education, etc.)

• Photocopy of Transcripts (Master’s Degree, Bachelor’s Degree, Postgraduate Diploma in Education, etc.). Please note that:

  • A transcript of detailed academic results is required from each university or college attended. The transcript results should show marks (wherever possible) and grades obtained in each module. If the transcript is in a language other than English, please provide an official English translation as well and the modules in the translation should be listed in the same order as that of the original transcript

  • If a complete transcript is not available, please include a complete photocopied set of examination results for every semester

The financing of the Applied Linguistics program at Nanyang Technological University is structured to support both local and international students through various financial aid options. The university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid packages designed to make graduate education accessible. Scholarships such as the Nanyang Scholarship, ASEAN Undergraduate Scholarship, and various faculty-specific awards are available to outstanding students based on academic merit and potential contribution to the university community. Additionally, students may apply for government-funded bursaries or external sponsorships to supplement their funding needs.

Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student's nationality. Local students benefit from subsidized rates, while international students pay higher fees, aligned with the university's fee structure for international students. To assist with tuition costs, Nanyang Technological University offers installment plans and payment schemes, enabling students to spread their payments over several semesters.

Apart from scholarships, students can seek financial assistance from government schemes, loans, or part-time employment opportunities on campus. The NTU Student Financial Services Office provides comprehensive information and support regarding available funding options, application procedures, and eligibility criteria. Many students also consider private education loans to further finance their studies, ensuring that financial burdens do not hinder access to quality education.

The university also emphasizes the importance of research grants and assistantships for students involved in research projects, which can provide additional financial support. Teaching assistantships and research assistantships are often available for postgraduate students, offering stipends in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities.

Overall, the financing options at Nanyang Technological University aim to provide a diverse array of financial support mechanisms to facilitate the successful completion of the Applied Linguistics program, fostering an inclusive academic environment and enabling talented students from all backgrounds to pursue advanced studies in language and linguistics.

The Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics at Nanyang Technological University is a comprehensive program designed for professionals and scholars interested in the scientific study of language and its applications. This program offers a deep exploration of language theory, language acquisition, and the practical implementation of language skills across various contexts such as education, technology, and communication industries. Students enrolling in this program will engage in advanced coursework that covers topics such as corpus linguistics, second language teaching methodology, language testing and assessment, and discourse analysis. The curriculum is structured to equip students with both theoretical foundations and practical skills, enabling them to address complex language issues in multicultural and multilingual environments.

The program is suited for individuals aiming to work in language education, designing language learning materials, conducting linguistic research, or working in language policy and planning. It emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and encourages research that contributes to innovative language solutions in real-world contexts. Throughout the program, students will have opportunities to collaborate on research projects, participate in seminars led by experts in the field, and undertake internships with industry partners. The faculty comprises renowned scholars and industry practitioners dedicated to advancing knowledge in applied linguistics.

Nanyang Technological University's Applied Linguistics program also emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and effective communication, preparing graduates for diverse career paths. The program’s flexible structure allows part-time or full-time study, accommodating students’ professional commitments. Graduates of the program are well-positioned to take up roles in language teaching and curriculum development, research institutes, government agencies, and private corporations seeking expertise in multilingual communication strategies.

The university’s vibrant academic community and state-of-the-art facilities provide an ideal environment for scholarly growth and practical application. Students have access to extensive resources, including language laboratories, digital corpora, and research clusters focusing on language technology and intercultural communication. By the end of the program, students will have developed a robust portfolio of research and practical experience, making them highly competitive in the global job market.

Overall, NTU’s Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics prepares students to become leaders and innovators in the field of language science, supporting efforts to improve language learning, assessment, and communication in a complex, interconnected world.