Skip navigation
Search
Search
Applied Linguistics at The University of Edinburgh - UCAS

Course options

2023 - 2024
Apply

There are other course options available which may have a different vacancy status or entry requirements – view the full list of options

Course summary

This programme offers a linguistic perspective on real-world problems of language in use, with a strong emphasis on developing skills and knowledge that can be applied in a wide range of professional settings. In Applied Linguistics, we draw on knowledge about language, how it works and how it is used in order to contribute to real life issues. We:

  • examine language use in a variety of social settings (e.g. language use in everyday conversation, in educational settings, in medical settings etc.)
  • focus on language variability (e.g. bilingualism, accents, dialects, etc.) versus social diversity (e.g. gender, class, ethnicity etc.)
  • consider how knowledge about language as it is actually used in real social settings can (be made to) impact on people's lives
Key research areas This programme will help you gain intellectual and practical skills to engage in applied linguistics research, either for its own sake, or as part of cross-disciplinary research. This highly flexible MSc draws on the University of Edinburgh’s unparalleled research expertise in Linguistics. Linguistics and English Language at Edinburgh has access to a wide breadth of research themes, with the greatest theoretical depth that you will find anywhere. This programme gives you the flexibility to choose courses and research topics to suit your academic interests and goals. The department has multiple overlapping research groups, covering everything from meaning and grammar to language evolution. This programme is unique in allowing you freedom to draw on these resources. Linguistics & English Language is rated 3rd in the UK by Times Higher Education for the quality and breadth of the research using the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021). What will I learn You will:
  • explore how language is used in a variety of social situations - for example, language use in everyday conversation, or in educational settings
  • compare language variability - for example, bilingualism, accents, dialects - with social diversity such as gender, class, or ethnicity
  • examine how knowledge and uses of language can impact people’s lives
You can also take advantage of the interdisciplinary department and draw on teaching and research both elsewhere in the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences and within other relevant Schools. Is this MSc for me This programme provides and enhances your skills to engage in applied linguistic research. It provides an excellent preparation for further research and knowledge as an applied linguistics specialist, whether you choose to pursue this in further in academic research or in a professional career. Reputation, relevance and employability The programme benefits from a long and respected academic tradition. Edinburgh was the first UK university to offer a programme in Applied Linguistics and you will be taught by world-leading experts. Our Linguistics and English Language department is home to academics leading research into a wide range of topics. You will benefit from the breadth and strength of the interdisciplinary academic community at Edinburgh, having the opportunity to select option courses and attend research seminars across different disciplines. Our students’ research projects are often published in academic or professional journals. Our programme has an excellent reputation amongst employers and further research opportunities. Many of our graduates have gone onto PhD training and we have a high academic job placement record. Find out more about our community The School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences is home to a large, supportive and active student community, hosting events and activities throughout the year which you can join. As a postgraduate student, you will have access to a range of research resources, state-of-the-art facilities research seminars and reading groups.

Modules

See our website for detailed programme information.

Entry requirements

Entry requirements for individual programmes vary, so please check the details for the specific programme you wish to apply for on our website. You will also need to meet the University’s language requirements.

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Additional fee information

Tuition fees vary between degree programmes. Find the specific fees for your chosen programme on our website.
Applied Linguistics at The University of Edinburgh - UCAS