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Applied Linguistics and Second Language

The MSc in Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition at the University of Oxford is one of the most sought-after graduate programs for students passionate about language learning cognitive linguistics and second language education. This Oxford master’s course combines linguistic theory psycholinguistics sociolinguistics and language acquisition research offering a comprehensive understanding of how people learn and use languages in real-world contexts. Students develop advanced expertise in bilingualism language teaching methodologies educational linguistics and language assessment while gaining hands-on research experience under Oxford’s distinguished faculty. Designed for aspiring educators researchers and linguists this program equips graduates with the academic and professional skills needed to shape the future of language education TESOL and communication policy worldwide. Whether you aim to pursue a PhD in linguistics become a language curriculum designer or lead international language learning projects this MSc provides the foundation for long-term success in both academia and global education sectors.

Course Structure

The MSc in Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition is a full-time one-year program that includes six core taught modules and a research dissertation. The course is structured around three academic terms — Michaelmas, Hilary and Trinity.

During Michaelmas and Hilary terms, students complete the taught modules, while the Trinity term focuses primarily on the dissertation. In addition to the assessed modules students attend non-assessed sessions in research methods academic writing and quantitative data analysis which strengthen their research and analytical skills.

The core modules include:

  • Foundations of Second Language Acquisition (SLA) Theory
  • First Language Acquisition and Bilingualism
  • Vocabulary Acquisition
  • Processing and Producing Language
  • Sociolinguistics
  • Individual and Group Differences

Each module combines theoretical depth with practical relevance ensuring that students can apply linguistic insights in educational cultural and research contexts.

The course is designed to enhance both your theoretical knowledge and practical skills enabling you to reflect critically on language learning and teaching. You’ll gain a comprehensive understanding of how linguistic cognitive and social factors influence language acquisition preparing you for advanced research or professional roles in the field.

Research and Academic Environment

Research is at the heart of this MSc. The Department of Education at Oxford organizes its research around three major themes:

  • Language, Cognition and Development
  • Policy, Economy and Society
  • Pedagogy, Learning and Knowledge

Within these areas students and faculty participate in research groups and academic seminars often contributing to discussions and presenting findings. These groups bring together experts in psycholinguistics sociolinguistics cognitive linguistics and language education offering students unique exposure to cutting-edge work in the field.

The department also hosts seminars and public lectures that feature distinguished scholars from around the world. Graduate students are encouraged to attend and sometimes present at these sessions gaining confidence in academic communication and research dissemination.

Attendance and Study Resources

This MSc is a full-time on-campus course that requires residence in Oxford. Students are expected to engage actively in seminars tutorials and research discussions throughout the academic year.

Oxford provides a wealth of resources to support your study:

  • The Bodleian Libraries one of the largest library systems in the UK offers over 13 million printed works rare manuscripts e-journals and digital databases.
  • The Bodleian Education Library specializes in educational and linguistic materials offering access to journals teaching resources and research databases.
  • The Social Sciences Library provides additional materials to support research in applied linguistics and education.
  • IT Services at Oxford offers students tools courses and software to enhance their research and data analysis skills.

This extensive academic ecosystem ensures that every MSc student has the tools and support necessary to excel in their studies and research.

Supervision and Assessment

Graduate supervision is coordinated by the Department of Education, and each student is assigned a supervisor based on their research interests. Supervisors typically meet with students three to four times per term for one-on-one discussions about progress and research development. In total, MSc students receive around 10 hours of dissertation supervision across the academic year.

Assessment in this program includes:

  • Written assignments for each of the six taught modules
  • A final research dissertation, which is an independent study on a topic approved by the supervisor

Assignments are submitted at the end of each term, while dissertation work begins early in the year and culminates in submission during the summer. Students must also complete a research integrity module before beginning dissertation research.

The department is currently reviewing assessment methods to align with the evolving role of Artificial Intelligence in education and research integrity.

Entry Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and potential. The minimum entry requirement is:

  • A first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a field related to applied linguistics.
  • For applicants from the USA, a minimum GPA of 3.6 out of 4.0.

No GRE or GMAT is required. Publications are not expected but may strengthen the application.

English Language Proficiency

Non-native English speakers must meet Oxford’s higher-level English proficiency standard:

  • IELTS Academic: Overall 7.5 (minimum 7.0 in each component)
  • TOEFL iBT: 110 overall (minimum 22–25 per component)
  • C1 Advanced / C2 Proficiency: 191 overall (minimum 185 in each component)

Applicants must provide test results taken within two years of the course start date.

Application Process

To apply, candidates must submit:

  • Three academic references (two are acceptable at the initial stage)
  • Official transcripts of all university-level qualifications
  • A personal statement of up to 750 words explaining motivation experience and research interests
  • Two academic essays (maximum 2,000 words each) that demonstrate analytical and academic writing skills

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to an online interview where they’ll discuss research interests motivation and potential dissertation topics. Interviews typically take place two to six weeks after the application deadline.

Fees and Funding

For the 2026–27 academic year course fees are:

Oxford offers over 1,100 graduate scholarships annually. Applicants who apply by the January deadline are automatically considered for most funding opportunities. Additional scholarships may require separate applications which can be identified through Oxford University Funding and Scholarship Search Tool.

Students should also account for living costs estimated between £1,405 and £2,105 per month depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

College Affiliation

Students of this MSc become members of both a department and a college. The following colleges currently accept students for this program:

  • St Anne’s College
  • St John’s College
  • Worcester College
  • Kellogg College
  • St Catherine’s College
  • Linacre College
  • Regent’s Park College
  • St Cross College
  • Wolfson College
  • Jesus College
  • Blackfriars
  • Campion Hall
  • St Hugh’s College
  • Wycliffe Hall

Each college provides a supportive academic community accommodation options and access to cultural social and professional activities.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the MSc in Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition have gone on to build successful careers worldwide. Many work in universities research institutions government organizations and NGOs while others pursue careers in language education policy-making, international communication, and consultancy.

Oxford University alumni have secured positions at top institutions such as Stanford, Princeton, MIT, UCL, and the University of Edinburgh as well as global organizations like the OECD and various ministries of education.

Conclusion

The MSc in Applied Linguistics and Second Language Acquisition at Oxford University offers a world-class academic foundation for anyone interested in understanding how languages are learned and taught. The program blends linguistic theory, educational research, and practical teaching insights, equipping students with the expertise to shape the future of language education and communication.

Whether your goal is to become a language educator, academic researcher, or educational consultant, this MSc provides the intellectual tools, academic mentorship, and global network to achieve excellence in your field.

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