Program start date | Application deadline |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Course Details
The MA in TESOL and Applied Linguistics offers excellent opportunities to develop your career in English language teaching whether you’re an inexperienced teacher, starting out in the field or a more experienced teacher looking to take your skills to a new level.
Start Dates
- September 2025
Degree Type
MA
Course Length
1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
Location
Durham City
Programme Code
Q3KE07
Course Structure
Year 1 Modules
Core Modules:
- Language for Teaching: examines the phonological, lexical, grammatical and discoursal features of spoken and written language.
- Classroom Methods: teaches the core theories and methodologies from the field of applied linguistics that underpin the teaching of both skills and language knowledge in second-language classrooms.
- Research Methods: supports you in developing an understanding of key research approaches and methods in the fields of TESOL and Applied Linguistics.
- Fundamentals of English Language Teaching: introduces core ideas and issues relevant to second language acquisition, syllabus design and methodology.
Optional Modules:
You then choose four further modules from a wide range of options. The optional modules are divided into two pathways, TESOL and Applied Linguistics and have previously included:
TESOL Pathway
- Evaluation and Assessment
- Practice of English Language Teaching
- ELT Management
- ELT Materials Development and Evaluation
- English for Specific Purposes
- ELT Methodology
- Teaching Young Learners
- Technology-enhanced Language Learning
Applied Linguistics Pathway
- Sociolinguistics
- Intercultural Communication and Education
- Global Englishes
- Pragmatics and the Language Classroom
- ELT Methodology
- ELT Management
Learning
The MA TESOL and Applied Linguistics is delivered via a combination of lectures, seminars, practical sessions and micro-teaching sessions, giving you a solid grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the subject.
Assessment
The majority of core and optional modules are assessed via written assignments ranging from essays and teaching plans to assessment designs, reflections on teaching practice and presentations.
Entry Requirements
A 2.1 (or overseas equivalent) degree in any discipline.
A 500-word personal statement which should include the following:
- An outline of your interest in MA TESOL and applied linguistics
- An indication of what skills and knowledge you would hope to acquire
- Outlining any prior teaching experience you may have, especially teaching other languages
Fees and Funding
Full Time Fees
Tuition fees:
- Home students: £12,900 per year
- EU students: £26,500 per year
- Island students: £12,900 per year
- International students: £26,500 per year
Part Time Fees
Tuition fees:
- Home students: £7,100 per year
- EU students: £14,600 per year
- Island students: £7,100 per year
- International students: £14,600 per year
Career Opportunities
English Language education at Durham produces inspirational teachers of English as a second language who are capable of using their learned skills and knowledge for a range of employers across the globe.
Department Information
Focusing on the teaching of English as a second language, we provide opportunities to embark on a fulfilling career developing spoken and written English skills among communities across the world.
Facilities
The Durham Centre for Academic Development Centre offers a wide range of up-to-date resources that support the development of your teaching skills and your ability to carry out significant and effective research.
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Program Outline
Degree Overview
Objective:
This program aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in teaching English as a second language. It caters to both individuals starting their teaching career and experienced professionals seeking to enhance their expertise.
Description:
- Blends theoretical knowledge with practical application in language teaching, teacher education, and academic skill development.
- Focuses on contemporary developments and innovative classroom practices in areas like syllabus design and assessment.
- Provides opportunities to test theoretical knowledge in real-life settings and refine teaching skills through progression.
- Offers flexibility through optional modules in two pathways: TESOL and Applied Linguistics, allowing students to tailor the course to their interests and career aspirations.
- Culminates in a 15,000-word independent research dissertation project, integrating theoretical and practical learning.
Outline
Content and Structure:
- Core modules comprise one-third of the program: Language for Teaching, Classroom Methods, Research Methods, Fundamentals of English Language Teaching, and the Dissertation.
- The remaining two-thirds are customizable through four optional modules chosen from the TESOL or Applied Linguistics pathways, covering specialized areas like Evaluation and Assessment, Practice of English Language Teaching, ELT Management, ELT Materials Development and Evaluation, English for Specific Purposes, Teaching Young Learners, Technology-enhanced Language Learning, Sociolinguistics, Intercultural Communication and Education, Global Englishes, and Pragmatics.
Course Schedule:
- Approximately 12 hours of teaching per week are delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and micro-teaching sessions during the first two terms.
- Delivery methods are tailored to different modules, with some favoring a lecture/seminar format and others emphasizing practical application.
- Structured learning is complemented by independent learning activities like reading, class preparation, and assignments.
- Classroom Methods: Introduces core theories and methodologies from applied linguistics for teaching skills and language knowledge in second-language classrooms.
- Research Methods: Equips students with key research methods in TESOL and Applied Linguistics, allowing them to apply and critically evaluate these approaches.
- Fundamentals of English Language Teaching: Covers core ideas and issues in second language acquisition, syllabus design, and methodology, enabling critical discussion and merit evaluation of various language syllabuses.
- Dissertation: An independent research project focusing on an area aligned with TESOL and Applied Linguistics studies.
Optional Modules:
TESOL Pathway:
- Evaluation and Assessment
- Practice of English Language Teaching
- ELT Management
- ELT Materials Development and Evaluation
- English for Specific Purposes
- ELT Methodology
- Teaching Young Learners
- Technology-enhanced Language Learning
Applied Linguistics Pathway:
- Sociolinguistics
- Intercultural Communication and Education
- Global Englishes
- Pragmatics and the Language Classroom
- ELT Methodology
- ELT Management
Assessment
Core and Optional Modules:
- Primarily assessed through written assignments like essays, teaching plans, assessment designs, and presentations.
Dissertation:
- This 15,000-word project comprises one-third of the program's overall credit.
Increased Independence:
- Compared to undergraduate studies, this Master's degree demands a greater level of self-directed learning.
Teaching
Delivery Methods:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Practical sessions
- Micro-teaching sessions
Focus:
- Providing a strong foundation in both theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Unique Approaches:
- Strong emphasis on student engagement: Encourages participation in presentations and micro-teaching sessions throughout the course.
- Independent research guidance: Regular dissertation sessions with culminating poster conference in the third term, alongside individual supervisor meetings.
Careers
Outcomes:
- Graduates are well-equipped for careers as inspirational teachers of English as a second language, with the potential to work across the globe.
- The program produces graduates employed by a diverse range of international organizations and institutions, including language schools, colleges, universities, and the British Council.
- Opportunities extend beyond teaching to encompass management roles within language institutions and research positions.
Other
Scholarships:
- The center offers a central hub for student-teacher interaction and facilitates a vibrant learning community.
Full Time Fees
Tuition fees Home students £11,900 per year EU students £23,900 per year Island students £11,900 per year International students £23,900 per year
Part Time Fees
Tuition fees Home students £6,600 per year EU students £13,200 per year Island students £6,600 per year International students £13,200 per year
Durham University
Overview:
Durham University is a prestigious public research university located in Durham, England. It is renowned for its academic excellence, historic setting, and vibrant student life. The university is consistently ranked among the top 100 universities globally, with particular strengths in subjects like History, Engineering, Psychology, Geography, Physics, and Law.
Services Offered:
Durham University offers a wide range of services to its students, including:
Library & Collections:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and digital resources.Student Support & Wellbeing:
Comprehensive support services for students' academic, personal, and mental health needs.Careers, Employability and Enterprise:
Guidance and resources to help students develop their career skills and find employment opportunities.Enrichment Activities:
A diverse range of extracurricular activities, clubs, and societies to enhance the student experience.Welcome and Orientation:
A comprehensive program to help new students settle into university life.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Durham University provides a unique and enriching campus experience. Students can expect:
Residential Colleges:
Living in historic and beautiful colleges, fostering a strong sense of community.Vibrant Social Scene:
A lively social scene with numerous events, clubs, and societies.Historic Setting:
Studying in a city steeped in history, with iconic landmarks like Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle.Close-knit Community:
A friendly and supportive environment with a strong sense of belonging.Key Reasons to Study There:
Academic Excellence:
Consistently ranked among the top universities globally, offering high-quality teaching and research.Prestigious Reputation:
A globally recognized institution with a strong alumni network.Historic Setting:
A unique and inspiring campus environment with a rich history and culture.Vibrant Student Life:
A lively and diverse student community with numerous opportunities for personal and professional development.Academic Programs:
Durham University offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:
Arts and Humanities:
History, English Literature, Classics, Philosophy, Theology, and more.Science and Engineering:
Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Engineering, Computer Science, and more.Social Sciences:
Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Politics, Geography, and more.Business and Management:
Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, and more.Other:
Global Durham:
The university has a strong international presence, with partnerships and collaborations worldwide.Research Impact:
Durham University conducts innovative and impactful research across various fields.Sustainability:
The university is committed to sustainability, with initiatives to enhance biodiversity and reduce its environmental impact.Alumni Network:
A strong and active alumni network, providing support and opportunities for graduates.Entry Requirements:
Home and EU Students:
- Good first degree: A UK 2:1 or equivalent.
- English language proficiency: IELTS 7.0 overall, including minimum 7.0 in writing and no component below 6.5, or equivalent qualification as listed in the University's English Language Requirements guide (www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/english-language-levels-required/)
International Students (outside EU):
- Good first degree: equivalent to a UK 2:1.
- English language proficiency: IELTS 7.0 overall, including minimum 7.0 in writing and no component below 6.5, or equivalent qualification as listed in the University's English Language Requirements guide (www.durham.ac.uk/study/international/entry-requirements/english-language-requirements/english-language-levels-required/)
Language Proficiency Requirements:
- IELTS: 7.0 overall, including minimum 7.0 in writing and no component below 6.5.