Master of Applied Linguistics

Applied linguistics is one of the fastest growing fields of study in the humanities and is becoming increasingly recognised for its ability to solve language related problems at a micro and macro level. Professionals who can demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of the use of language in varied situations are highly valued in the workplace. This course offers professionals from a wide variety of disciplines the opportunity to expand their knowledge of how language works in the context of globalisation. You will gain a critical understanding of theoretical and practical issues relating to applied linguistics, including second/foreign language acquisition, language teaching, language contact and intercultural communication. Throughout our course, you will be exposed to corpus methods and other ‘big data’ approaches to language analysis, leaving graduates well placed for a range of cutting edge careers in the language and technology field.The Monash Master of Applied Linguistics is particularly concerned with the implications of multilingualism and intercultural communication for modern society and the professional sphere. It is ideal for a range of professionals, including interpreters, editors, policy makers and health care professionals - in short anyone working with language issues in a multilingual and multicultural context. It is particularly recommended for language teachers (including English as a second or foreign language), teachers of VCE English language and generalist teachers looking to improve their knowledge of grammar/language structures and the application of this knowledge to communication across cultures. With our focus on international languages (e.g. English, French, Mandarin, Spanish), our course will also be useful to anyone considering taking up a position in local, national or international organisations where one or more of these languages are used as a professional or necessary lingua franca. The Monash’s Master of Applied Linguistics may also provide you with a pathway to PhD study through research projects.Monash’s Master of Applied Linguistics is designed to give you a strong understanding of language structures and use across a variety of languages. By doing so, we provide in-depth knowledge of issues surrounding the teaching and use of language for international and intercultural communication.In the core units, you will earn how language variation (e.g. multilingualism, English) comes to bear on communication across cultures. You also explore how we use language differently according to context and how language varies between different social groups. You will also develop your skills in language analysis and conducting small practice-based research projects within your own professional contexts. In the elective units you will have the opportunity to specialise in areas such as discourse analysis, intercultural communication and teaching global languages.You will be able to apply your learning to your own professional context as part of the assessment process and have the opportunity to complete a research project or internship. The research training in applied linguistics that you will receive, will also equip you as a graduate to make a significant professional contribution to the field.[082651G]