First, second and subsequent language acquisition is a complex process, with a knowledge base combining diverse areas including applied linguistics, psychology, education and assessment.
Our Master of Arts program is designed to integrate these important elements in an educational experience promoting a high level of expertise and professionalism.
We currently offer opportunities for graduate studies in Applied Linguistics for those interested in the field of Teaching English as a Second/Subsequent Language (TESL), as well as for those with an interest in applying linguistics more generally, or to other domains, including Speech Communication Disorders.
All courses are designed to be interactive, up-to-date and pertinent to today’s workplace. Courses cover a broad range of topics to develop and challenge individual students’ knowledge base. There are also opportunities for students to participate in research with participating faculty members, many of whom have active labs.
Faculty members bring a valuable range of attributes, including extensive international experience, hands-on proficiency in ESL teaching in Canada, capacity in a wide range of languages beyond English, and energetic research and scholarship published and presented globally. Graduates will be well prepared for careers in TESL within Canada or abroad, curriculum development, writing and language, as well as for further graduate study at the doctoral level.
Program specializations:
The Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics offers both a general option and a specialization in Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL). In both options, students learn about research methodology and second language acquisition, with the educational experience promoting a high level of expertise and professionalism.
Applied Linguistics (General)
Students in the general option complete a thesis, which can cover a broad range of topics in linguistics such as speech language pathology, language teaching and learning, and more.
Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL)
Students pursuing the specialization in TESL can choose between the thesis, major research paper (MRP), and course-based routes, and focus on diverse areas such as applied linguistics, language-teaching methodology, curriculum design and testing, and more.
Program pathways and durations:
Program duration can be 12 months to 2 years depending on previous educational background in related disciplines and choice of program (i.e., course-based or thesis-based).
Total credits: 3.0
The thesis option is available to students in both the General and TESL streams of the program. Full-time students in the thesis option are expected to complete their degree requirements within four academic terms.
Given the broad nature of the General stream, additional graduate courses needed to fulfil degree requirements may also be taken from outside of Applied Linguistics (modern languages, psychology, education, statistics, etc.). Such courses should only be taken in consultation with the student’s supervisor and Graduate Program Director.
Direct Entry may offer funding, including paid Teaching Assistant assignments. The amount of funding will be outlined in an applicant’s offer letter.
Total credits: 5.0
The Major Research Paper (MRP) option is only available to students in the TESL stream of the program. Full-time students in the MRP option are expected to complete their degree requirements within three academic terms (one year).
Direct Entry may offer funding, including paid Teaching Assistant assignments. The amount of funding will be outlined in an applicant’s offer letter.
Total credits: 5.0
The course-based option is only available to students in the TESL stream of the program. Full-time students in the course-based option are expected to complete their degree requirements within three academic terms (one year).
The course-based MA Applied Linguistics (TESL) stream does not include any financial support.
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.
Further details about the application process, including deadlines and supplementary documents to submit, can be found in FGSPA’s Applied Linguistics (MA) Admissions Snapshot. See also the full program admission requirements as outlined in the Graduate Academic Calendar.
Our unique Bridged Entry program is designed for students who would benefit from further assistance using academic English, providing hands-on, preparatory instruction plus one-on-one mentoring throughout the academic year.
While course work is taken with the Direct Entry students at the same academic and professional level, Bridged Entry students have an additional preparatory course (LING 5N01) running from the beginning of July to the end of August before coursework begins. This preparatory course covers topics from academic integrity to the appropriate construction of an academic paper for applied linguistics. In addition, from September to August, Bridged Entry students have regular access to a Writing Mentor who is able to help with the mechanics of writing effective research papers, essays and other assignments.
Application deadline:
January 15
The application portal may remain open after the deadline and will close when all spots are filled. See FGSPA’s Applied Linguistics (MA) Admissions Snapshot for details.
Funding and scholarships:
The Department is committed to providing competitive funding to all qualified graduate students in the form of teaching assistantships and fellowships. There are also many awards and scholarships available outside of graduate funding.
Professional connections:
Our department has strong links with national and international associations related to Applied Linguistics, and other TESL training programs and professional associations, such as TESL Canada and TESL Ontario. We also have strong links to programs and associations related to Speech Language Pathology, such as SAC and CASLPO. Our programs will prepare you for new workplace opportunities and/or for further studies.
Graduate Program Director:
(Interim)
Dr. Kirsty Spence
[email protected]
