Program start date | Application deadline |
2026-01-01 | - |
2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
English Language and Linguistics MA
Overview
The English Language and Linguistics MA explores the linguistic features of English from theoretical, applied, synchronic, and diachronic perspectives. Our course will enable you to understand and evaluate critically a wide spectrum of ideas in the study of the English language, particularly in connection with linguistic variation in terms of space, time, communicative context, and linguistic contact. It will also equip you with the intellectual perspectives and scholarly skills to conduct independent research.
Course Structure
- Duration: 1 year
- Attendance: Full-time - January 2026, Full-time - September 2025, Part-time day - September 2025, Part-time day - January 2026, Full-time - September 2026, Part-time day - September 2026
- UK Fees: £9,700 *
- International Fees: £17,500 *
- Alumni Discount: See details
- Campus: Regent, Central London
Course Summary
The MA is for you if you've taken English language and/or linguistics modules at undergraduate level, or if you've studied allied disciplines such as psychology, philosophy, or TESOL. It's of particular interest if you're wishing to pursue further study, or if you're teaching English and wish to gain a further qualification and investigate current developments in the field.
If studying the degree full-time, you'll complete 180 credits in one academic year; if part-time, you'll normally complete 180 credits in two academic years. You'll study four core modules (including a 60-credit dissertation on a topic of English language and/or linguistics), as well as two modules from the list of options.
Core Modules
Dissertation
Development, execution, and writing-up of an independent research project on a topic chosen by you. All students will attend regular research seminars. Individual supervision will provide topic-specific guidance.
English Worldwide
This module examines in detail English in its multiple varieties and multiple uses in the world: native, nativised, and non-native varieties, regional variation within larger speech communities, use by monolinguals and multilinguals, and register differences according to use and user. Furthermore, it gives you the opportunity to carry out original empirical work relating to the concepts and methods they are acquiring.
Language and Learning: Description and Analysis
This module introduces and encourages in-depth exploration of core concepts in the description and analysis of language with specific reference to English language teaching. The module also introduces and encourages in-depth exploration of core concepts in language learning with specific reference to second language acquisition and the implications of these concepts for the language teacher. The module is divided into two units: the first on language description and analysis; the second on language learning.
Multilingualism: Concepts and Applications
This module introduces you to the major theoretical frameworks for studying language contact by exploring the different processes, causes, types, effects, and outcomes that emerge from contact contexts: e.g., bilingualism, pidginization, creolisation, diglossia, borrowing, code-switching, linguistic change. The module adopts a cross-linguistic perspective and will include contexts ranging from dominant language ecologies to cases of severe language endangerment.
Option Modules
Analysing Spoken and Written Discourse
This module offers a range of different linguistic tools for exploring texts. They are analysed for lexical and grammatical cohesion, metonymy and metaphor, and register and thematic progression (Hallidayan functional grammar). Texts are also analysed using Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA) and Multimodal Discourse Analysis (MDA). You will acquire a theoretical understanding of the main approaches to discourse analysis, and the practical skills for carrying out these analyses on real texts. You will also gain a broader awareness of how written discourse is constructed by comparing it to spoken discourse, and by discussing it in terms of more general semiotic and communication theories.
Language and Gender
This module critically considers different approaches to the sociolinguistic study of language and gender. This includes knowledge of theoretical frameworks used to understand why and how sex and gender can be viewed as significant social categories in relation to language use. The module also aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills to enable them to carry out independent empirical investigations in the field of language and gender research.
Language in Society
You'll critically explore concepts and issues in sociolinguistics; research methods; languages and factors such as age, class, gender, ethnicity; language variation, choice, planning, change; language in face-to-face interaction.
Languages for Specific Purposes
The module introduces you to Languages for Specific Purposes (LSP) and English for Specific Purposes (ESP). The module examines the different requirements in terms of needs, aspirations, and appropriate modes of instruction and assessment, of different types of language learner. It will enable you to add to your existing ELT knowledge and experience, and to engage meaningfully in relevant LSP/ESP developments.
Entry Requirements
- UK: A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a relevant discipline including English language, linguistics, or TESOL.
- International: A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2) in a relevant discipline including English language, linguistics, or TESOL. If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 with at least 6.0 in all components.
Fees and Funding
- UK tuition fee: £9,700 (Price per academic year)
- International tuition fee: £17,500 (Price per academic year)
- Alumni discount: This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
- Funding: There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
- Scholarships: The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Research Groups
Our research achieves real-world impact and we are proud to claim a rich and diverse profile of high-quality research and knowledge exchange in a wide range of disciplines.
- HOMELandS (Hub on Migration, Exile, Languages and Spaces)
- Westminster Forum for Languages and Linguistics
Supporting You
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support – workshops, 1-2-1 support, and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors – support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team – provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits, and visas
- Extra-curricular activities – volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events, and more
Course Location
Our Regent Campus is composed of three sites, situated on and around Regent Street – one of the most famous and vibrant streets in London.
Related Courses
- English Language and Literature MA
- Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) MA
University of Westminster
Overview:
University of Westminster is a public university located in London, England. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines. The university is known for its focus on practical learning and its strong connections to the industry.
Services Offered:
Student Life and Campus Experience:
The university has four campuses across London, providing students with a vibrant and diverse campus experience. Students have access to various facilities, including a cinema, gallery spaces, and sports facilities. The university also offers a range of student support services, including career guidance, academic support, and mental health services.
Key Reasons to Study There:
Location:
The university's location in London provides students with access to a wealth of cultural and professional opportunities.Practical Learning:
The university emphasizes practical learning, with many programs incorporating work placements and industry projects.Industry Connections:
The university has strong connections to industry, providing students with opportunities for networking and career development.Diverse Student Body:
The university has a diverse student body, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.Academic Programs:
The university offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Undergraduate courses:
A broad range of undergraduate courses in various disciplines, including business, design, creative industries, and liberal arts.Postgraduate courses:
A variety of postgraduate study options, including master's degrees, research degrees, and short courses.Other:
The university has a strong commitment to research and innovation, with a focus on areas such as sustainability, social justice, and digital technologies. It also has a dedicated alumni network, providing support and opportunities for graduates.