Program Overview

Program Overview

The Applied Linguistics (Online) PGCert is a flexible, fully online course designed for individuals interested in advancing their understanding of language and taking English teaching to the next level. This part-time course runs over 1.5 years, with several start dates available throughout the year.

Course Structure

• The course comprises 60 credits of taught modules, with modules running every six months.
• Students will take one module every six months from their start date.
• The course includes:
  • Module 1: Months 1 - 6
  • Module 2
  • Module 3

Module Information

The programme includes the following modules:

• Discourse Analysis (20 credits)
• Sociolinguistics (20 credits)
• Students will be required to complete one option from the available modules, including:
  • Corpus Linguistics (20 credits)
  • Functional Grammar (20 credits)
  • Lexis (20 credits)
  • Second Language Acquisition (20 credits)

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at the University of Birmingham, applicants will need to meet the general entry requirements, as well as those specific to the course. The application will be reviewed by the course's Admissions Tutor.

• 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject, such as English Language or Linguistics.
• Relevant equivalent study or professional experience can also be considered for entry.
• English language requirements:
  • IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.5 in any band.
  • TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 22 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking, and 21 in Writing.
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 67 in all four skills.
  • Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 176 in any component.
  • LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill.

Fees and Scholarships

• The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, supervision, assessment, and includes membership to the Guild of Students.
• Fees for 20-credit modules:
  • £1,304 per module (October 2025-July 2026)
  • £1,360 per module (October 2026)
• Scholarship information is available for students from various countries.

Application Process

• Application deadlines for this programme are as follows:
  • Entry point: 1 October – application deadline 1 September
  • Entry point: 1 December - application deadline 1 November
  • Entry point: 1 February – application deadline 1 January
  • Entry point: 1 April – application deadline 1 March
  • Entry point: 1 July – application deadline 1 June
• To apply for a postgraduate programme, students will need to submit their application and supporting documents online.

Career Opportunities

• The Careers Network offers a range of events and support services, including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs, and links with leading graduate recruiters.
• Our Linguistics postgraduate students have gone on to work in careers such as 'Project Manager', 'Senior Editor', and 'English as a Second Language Instructor' in organisations such as Duolingo, Kaplan International Languages, and Out of Nothing Pictures.

Related Courses

• Applied Linguistics (Online) MA

Student Experience

• At the University of Birmingham, students will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills, and make friends for life.
• The University offers a prestigious online education that matches the on-campus experience, taught by expert professors and lecturers.
• Student support is available throughout the online learning journey, including access to experienced academic staff and a range of resources.