This course is appropriate for students at the start of their careers as English Language teachers and also for students who have more than 2 years of English language teaching experience. A dedicated pathway is offered for each group. Whichever pathway you follow, you will take a critical professional perspective towards TESOL and Applied Linguistics in a global, cultural, political and educational context. Language is embedded in the social, cultural, personal, and interpersonal processes of human life, with complex forms and patterns that constantly develop to help us communicate more effectively. Thus, you will be encouraged to think of language as more than a set of rules. Instead, you will recognise language use as a complex process with personal, social and educational consequences, and you will acquire the knowledge and skills required to reflect critically upon your own language teaching practice.
The MA has been designed to enhance promotion prospects, fulfilling industry demands for highly qualified graduates with the skills to work across a variety of professions most notably English Language teachers and teacher trainers, managers, course planners, government advisers, inspectors, material developers and consultants. The course is also ideal for those looking to move into professional research, publishing and editing, and educational management. There is constant demand both in the UK and overseas for Applied Linguistics and TESOL graduates in other language-related professions, such as the media, the helping professions, communication, publishing and editing. Employment prospects for those holding the MA Applied Linguistics for TESOL qualification are excellent and graduates have gone on to good careers as English teachers overseas or in their home countries.