Applied linguists document languages and compile dictionaries.
Applied linguistics draws on theory and research in linguistics and related disciplines to solve practical problems involving language. A master's degree in this field can lead to a career in areas as diverse as education, government, law, medicine and computer technology. Applied linguists develop methodologies for teaching a first or second language, study language disorders, create public policy on literacy and bilingualism, and work on voice recognition technology.
Boston University (BU)
Students pursuing a Master of Arts in applied linguistics at BU may specialize in neurolinguistics and language disorders, language acquisition and development, bilingualism and language teaching, language and literacy in the classroom, sign language, language structure and linguistic theory, or another area of their choice. They may work on applied projects in the community, collaborating with schools, hospitals and clinics. To apply for the program, student must have completed an introductory class in linguistics and two years of foreign language study.
Program in Applied Linguistics
Boston University
96 Cummington St., Room 246
Boston, MA 02215
617-353-6197
bu.edu
University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA)
The Master of Arts in applied linguistics and TESL (teaching English as a second language) at UCLA prepares students for a career in research. The program offers three primary areas of specialization: language acquisition, language assessment and discourse analysis. Students may also take elective courses in the pedagogy and theory of teaching English as a second language. Prerequisites include two semesters of a foreign language and three introductory linguistics courses in phonology, general phonetics and syntax.
UCLA Applied Linguistics
3300 Rolfe Hall, Box 951531
Los Angeles, CA 90095-1531
310-825-4631
appling.ucla.edu
Georgetown University
Georgetown University offers a Master of Science with concentrations in second language pedagogy and acquisition, bilingualism and bilingual education, language assessment, endangered languages, language policy and cognitive linguistics. Students have occasion to work with scientists from other universities in the Washington, D.C., area and have access to three linguistics laboratories to conduct research. Students must become proficient in a foreign language and are recommended to take an introductory course in linguistics if unfamiliar with the subject.
Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
Georgetown University
Box 571005
Intercultural Center, Suite 302
3700 O St. NW
Washington, DC 20057-1005
202-687-5974
grad.georgetown.edu
University of Alaska, Fairbanks (UAF)
The Master of Arts in applied linguistics from UAF focuses on training language teachers to work in indigenous revitalization programs and researchers to document Alaska's endangered native languages. Applicants must have a 3.0 grade average on completion of their bachelor's degree, two years of a second language at the college level, and a demonstrated interest in the areas of applied linguistics served by the university.
University of Alaska Fairbanks
P.O. Box 757500
Fairbanks, AK 99775
907-474-7211
uaf.edu
Georgia State University
Graduates with a Master of Arts in applied linguistics have acquired the theory and knowledge required to pursue a career in language education or pursue doctoral work in applied linguistics, language-teaching, or language study. All candidates acquire language teaching experience in the Atlanta area, through volunteer opportunities in the United States or overseas, or through study abroad programs. They must also complete a foreign language study requirement.
Department of Applied Linguistics & ESL
Georgia State University
P.O. Box 4099
Atlanta, GA 30302-4099
404-413-5200
gsu.edu
Tags: second language, Arts applied, Arts applied linguistics, foreign language, language study, Master Arts, Master Arts applied