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Why should I
apply for the Applied Linguistics: TESOL MA?
A Masters degree in Applied Linguistics: TESOL
qualifies you to teach English as a foreign or second language
anywhere in the world (specific requirements will vary between
schools and countries). So, if you want a career that is varied and
exciting, or if you are already teaching English and want to
prepare yourself for more responsibility, this programme could be
for you.
Experienced teachers of English may be awarded
credits on the basis of their qualifications and experience.
Whatever experience you bring to the programme, our aim is to
assist you in the development of your professional practice and
further your career in English language teaching at home or
overseas. We aim to give you the opportunity to develop your
individual interests within the context of your current and future
classroom practice.
What will
I study?
The programme is designed to be studied either
full-time over 12 months or part-time (through evening classes or
day release) over a maximum of 5 years. If you are unable to
complete the Masters degree, you may work for the intermediate
award of Postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in TESOL. The
programme offers a September or January start.
How is the
programme structured?
The programme comprises four taught modules and a
dissertation.
- Module 1: Themes in Applied
Linguistics –This module aims to introduce you to the full
scope of applied linguistics, exploring the commonalities between
language professionals working in different parts of the
discipline. Incorporating both socio-cultural and cognitive
perspectives, the module considers the diverse and constantly
expanding range of theories, methods and issues faced by both
students and practitioners of applied linguistics.
- Module 2: Second Language
Acquisition -This module aims to give you a
critical appreciation of the theoretical background of, and issues
in, second language acquisition, providing you with the necessary
academic knowledge to underpin good practice.
- Module 3: Language Teaching
Methodology - This module provides a critical overview of
contemporary concerns and developments in TESOL. We explore the
diverse cultures of classrooms, student groups and teacher
communities in different counties and educational environments,
recognising the global context of English and English language
teaching. If you already have a DELTA or Diploma in TESOL (or
equivalent) you will be awarded the relevant credits for this
module and will not be required to attend.
- Module 4: Classroom Language Research
- This module relates specifically to classroom-based
research. It explores the implications of classroom research
findings for your future professional practice and aims to
encourage you to exercise an enquiring approach in your future
career. This module takes place in the Spring semester, before you
start to collect data for your dissertation.
- Module 5: Dissertation -
Your final module will be a dissertation on a topic that you will
agree with your supervisor. This module is an opportunity for you
to explore in depth an area of interest or particular branch of
English language teaching. You will gain experience in formulating
ideas and hypotheses, devising sound research methodology,
collecting and evaluating data, and presenting your findings in a
dissertation of 10,000 -12,000 words.
What resources will I have access to?
Our beautiful campus in the centre of historic
York has a range of excellent facilities for students, including a
well-stocked library with access to electronic journals, an
interactive virtual learning environment, helpful Writing and IT
Support services for students, conveniently located student
accommodation, a friendly Student Union and International Society
and much, much more!
International students whose first language is
not English will also have the benefit of additional classes in
English for Academic Purposes in their first semester.
We use this Moodle
website to share useful resources, news, information about
conferences, jobs and PhD studentships with potential applicants
and alumni of the MA Applied Linguistics: TESOL. To access our
site, please create a guest user login, this is a simple process
that only takes a few minutes.
How is the programme taught?
The programme is taught through lectures and
seminars, together with independent and group research and study
conducted outside formal teaching sessions. You will be encouraged
to tailor your study to specific areas of interest within the
broader context of the programme, ensuring that your study
relates directly to your future career path.
How
will I be assessed?
Your assessments will include essays, short
reflective assignments, presentations, practical research projects
and a dissertation. There are no formal examinations.
Student
profile
Having some teaching experience and a linguistics
degree, I decided to study for the MA TESOL to get an insight into
the theoretical side of language teaching. After just two weeks on
the programme I was critically examining my teaching methods, as
well as teaching part-time! The interesting module content and
class discussions have boosted my motivation and given me a good
understanding of current research in TESOL. An added bonus is the
good mix of home and international students, for both academic and
social activities.
Robert Morris
Before coming to York St John I was an English
teacher at a college in Nanchang, China. Two years ago I attended a
summer course for teachers at YSJ and was immediately
impressed by the friendly environment, and the great mix of people,
both staff and students, that I met. This encouraged me to apply
for the MA programme and I am enjoying every aspect of the course.
The lecturers on the programme are always well-prepared for the
lectures, and are very enthusiastic about their subject. I am
really enjoying my time here and I am finding the programme both
challenging and rewarding. York is also a great place to live with
lots of things going on.
Yang Guo
Degree programme information
Programme specifications
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