Applied Linguistics (MA)

Faculty of Social Sciences Master of Arts

  • Main Campus

Build advanced expertise in research methodology, second language acquisition, and applied linguistics through flexible program pathways tailored to your goals. Learn from internationally-experienced faculty whose expertise in ESL, multilingualism, language teaching, and globally recognized research enriches every stage of your graduate experience. Graduates will be prepared for rewarding careers in TESL, curriculum development, language and communications, or further doctoral study in Canada and around the world.

Program Pathways and Specializations:

  • Thesis – General and TESL streams (full-time)
  • Major Research Paper – TESL stream only (full-time)
  • Course-based – TESL stream only (full-time and part-time)

Entry point:

  • September

Duration:

  • Thesis – 4 terms
  • Major Research Paper – 3 terms
  • Course-based – 3 terms

Application deadline:

  • January 15
  • The application portal may remain open after the deadline and will close when all spots are filled. International applicants interested in applying after the posted deadline should contact the program for information on availability.
students in class

General program inquiries
Graduate program director
Kirsty Spence, Interim
Graduate program coordinator
Lora Nero

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Admission requirements

  • A four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an accredited institution, in a relevant discipline, with a minimum average of 75% in the last two years of study.
  • Completed course work in: general linguistics, syntax, phonology, discourse analysis, or other linguistics courses with a focus on English; educational psychology or similar courses related to ESL learning; ESL teaching methodology or practice teaching. 
  • Course-based applicants that are required to provide proof of English language proficiency must meet the standard graduate minimum requirements (IELTS 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0, or an approved equivalent), as outlined on the Graduate English Language Proficiency webpage. Research-based applicants must achieve a minimum IELTS score of 7.0 with writing band 7.0 and no subtest below 6.5, or an approved equivalent.

See also the full program admission requirements as outlined in the Graduate Academic Calendar and the general admission requirements for graduate-level study.

Application materials

In addition to the online application and payment of the non-refundable application fee, applicants are required to submit:

  • Transcripts from all previous post-secondary study
  • Three (3) references (preferably academic) – Brock will reach out to the referees noted in your application to secure confidential reference reports.
  • A Personal Statement of Intent
  • Current Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Prospective students are also required to make personal contact with potential supervisors and make note of this in the application process.

Visit our How to Apply page for a full overview of the application process, and our Application Documents page for details on document requirements and upload instructions.