Applied Linguistics and TESOL MA

Postgraduate degree

Develop a specialist understanding of language learning and enhance your teaching skills with our distance learning linguistics degree. Study 100% online or in the evenings on our Cambridge campus for maximum flexibility.

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Key facts about your online degree

How you'll study

Study online with an option to study on campus

Application deadline

Our next deadline is 27th May 2026

Course length

Study over 2 years + Major Project

Fees: £9,000

Payment plans available

Start dates

Start in January or September

Course overview

Our masters in TESOL and applied linguistics is designed for anyone involved in foreign language teaching who wants to deepen their theoretical understanding of language learning. You’ll explore the latest linguistics theories and their practical application in the classroom, enhancing your work in different teaching contexts. Studying this MA TESOL online or via distance learning gives you the flexibility to balance your professional commitments while developing critical and analytical skills that support your career.

Throughout the course, you’ll gain experience in compiling and analysing qualitative and quantitative data, and you’ll apply these skills in your own research project. You’ll also benefit from opportunities to take part in research seminars and conferences, and make industry connections through our links with language companies such as EF, Bell and Studio. Most students complete the MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL (distance learning) in just over two years, with additional time available for the Major Project.

Why choose this course?

Study 100% online or in the evenings on our Cambridge campus
Learn from experienced and passionate professionals
Ideal for anyone involved in foreign language teaching
Pursue your interests with a range of optional modules
Take an active role in research seminars and conferences
Receive dedicated support from our distance learning team

What you’ll gain

A deeper theoretical understanding of language learning
Practical insight into applying linguistics theories in the classroom
Enhanced skills for English language teaching and career development
Experience in compiling and analysing qualitative and quantitative data
Strengthened critical and analytical evaluation skills
The ability to conduct and present your own research project

Next application deadline: 27th May 2026

Apply now

Course modules and assessments

Core modules

Classroom Theory and Practice

This module is intended for students who are seeking to develop their knowledge and understanding of learning and teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). You will examine current research on modern classroom operations, exploring key concepts and issues through relevant professional and academic literature. A more practical element will be realised through filmed observation of teachers in practice. You will also be encouraged to reflect on your teaching and learning experience; analysing and discussing your beliefs and attitudes towards learning and teaching.

Second Language Acquisition

This module will focus on the major themes that have emerged from literature on second language learning over the last three decades. You’ll examine some of the research on the second-language acquisition process, look critically at reports of second-language research, and examine some of the theories which endeavour to interpret research evidence. You will be encouraged to use your own language learning and experience of teaching linguistics to assess the relative merits of such materials.

Materials and Course Design

You will explore the factors involved in the design of language courses and teaching materials, reflecting on one possible process of course design. This includes the role that AI can usefully play in materials design and the development of training sessions. You will start with an analysis of the context in which the course will take place, the needs of the learners, and current theories of language and language learning. You will move on to consider how course content can be selected and ordered in a principled way, how assessment relates to course design, and how and when courses should be evaluated. Finally, you will consider the evaluation, adaptation and creation of course materials. The face-to-face seminars will be a combination of teacher input, student input and discussion, both in groups and whole class. Students taking part in distance delivery will work in a small group with support from the tutor by means of the Virtual Learning Environment, with progress monitored through formative tasks. The assessment will be in the form of a portfolio and will give you the opportunity to consider what particular syllabus might be relevant to your own current or future teaching context. The elements of the portfolio will relate to particular units of the module, and the portfolio can therefore be progressively built up as the course proceeds.

Major Project

This module will support you in the preparation and submission of a master’s dissertation, allowing you to undertake in-depth research into a topic that reflects your academic interest. You will be able to demonstrate the ability to raise significant questions in relation to your specialist research area. It allows you to develop a detailed knowledge of your research area, a critical understanding of appropriate methodologies and theories, the ability to draw well-argued conclusions from information which may be complex or contradictory and the capacity to expand or redefine existing knowledge and/or to develop new approaches to the study of a particular area within the field.

Optional modules

Postgraduate Research Methods

In this module you will gain the research skills and techniques needed both to critically evaluate the literature you will be using in your course and to put into practice in your own dissertation. We will explore the methodologies and methods applied in contemporary social science research to enable you to select an appropriate range for your own needs. You will have the opportunity to experiment with a variety of methods so that you will fully understand them and be able to adapt them creatively for your own projects. The module will place research methods in a wider framework of social research strategies at a postgraduate level. We'll examine the research design options available to you at Masters level and explore thoroughly the issues involved in planning a research project and formulating research questions.

Teacher Development and Management

In this module you will develop an understanding of the issues and practices concerned with developing and training teachers of English to speakers of other languages. You will examine current and recent research and explore the key concepts and practices in areas such as observing teachers and giving feedback, designing training programmes, leadership in academic management and professionalism within teaching. You will watch live or recorded lessons and develop ideas about what feedback you would give on the lessons to develop the teacher’s skills. You will reflect on your own experience of working within teaching organisations.

Modules are subject to change and availability.

How you’ll be assessed

You’ll show your understanding of theoretical issues and their practical application through a combination of portfolios, classroom observation tasks and critical essays. After completing your final module, you’ll also research and prepare a 15,000-word major project.

How you'll study

100% Online study

Dedicated support

Study online and graduate on campus

Our Applied Linguistics and TESOL MA can be studied 100% online or you can study at our Cambridge campus. If you would prefer to study on campus, there are teaching slots available in the evening allowing for flexibility around your other commitments. There is no live teaching when you study online allowing you to choose when and where you study.

You’ll study online through Canvas, our world-class Learning Management System (LMS), which can be accessed from your phone, PC or tablet, both at home or on the move. Canvas provides instant access to study materials, forums, and support from tutors and classmates, as well as enabling easy submission of your assignments.

On successful completion of your studies, you’ll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus. If attending the ceremony in person is not possible then we’ll arrange to have your certificate sent to you.

Entry requirements

What you’ll need to start this course

A good honours degree (or equivalent), normally in a related subject. Applicants with professional experience are also encouraged to apply.

If you have completed a level 7 teaching qualification, such as a PGCE, Cambridge DELTA or DipTEFL within the last five years, we may be able to accredit this towards your course.

If English is not your first language, you will be expected to demonstrate a certificated level of proficiency of at least IELTS 6.5 or equivalent.

As a distance learner, you'll also need a suitable computer with internet connection, together with sufficient IT competence to make effective use of our online Learning Management System (LMS) with high-speed internet and email.

Please note: Our published entry requirements are a guide only and our decision will be based on your overall suitability for the course as well as whether you meet the minimum entry requirements. Other equivalent qualifications may be accepted for entry to this course, please contact us for further information.

Fees and Funding

Fees

The full tuition fee for this TESOL course is £9,000.

The tuition fees you pay each year for the Applied Linguistics and TESOL MA will be £4,500. The course is studied over 2 years with additional time (1 or 2 trimesters depending on your start date) to submit your Major Project.

Accredited Prior Learning

Students who have successfully completed the Bell English DELTA programme, or equivalent from other providers, will be awarded a 60 credits exemption, waiving the requirement to complete the ‘Materials and Course Design’, as well as the ‘Classroom Theory and Practice’ modules. This exemption will reduce the tuition fee for the full MA and may reduce the length of time needed to complete the degree. Please contact us for more information.

Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) may reduce the tuition fees. This will be confirmed once your application has been submitted. Please note that APL may affect your eligibility for a postgraduate loan.

Funding

Your course may be eligible to be fully funded by the Postgraduate Student Loans now available (subject to start date and eligibility).

We offer payment by instalments, so you can spread the cost of studying with us.

For military students: You can use your ELCs towards this course. ARU is a recognised ELCAS provider (number 1007). Please contact your Learning Centre for details of ELC, eligibility and how to apply.

For more information on how you fund your studies please see our funding page or contact us.

What our students say

My course has helped me to learn and successfully apply new knowledge and skills to my current workplace.

Shipa, TESOL Alumni

Read Shipa's story

The course has opened my mind to new teaching ideas and has really helped me add some new dimensions into how I teach.

Mark, TESOL Alumni

Read Mark's story

ARU was a great choice that allowed me to achieve my personal and professional ambitions. I felt supported, empowered, and accomplished.

Dio, Education Alumni

Read Dio's story

The content has been interesting and applicable to my current job and future career aspirations.

Ryan, TESOL Alumni

Read Ryan's story

Awards and recognition

Be part of the University of the Year

We're proud to be the Times Higher Education (THE) University of the Year 2023. The prestigious THE awards honour ’exceptional performance during the 2021-22 academic year, and reflect ARU’s success in delivering high-impact projects during this period, despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The award recognises the difference we make in the region and our communities – while also acknowledging the broader impact of our world-leading research, and the contributions our students and graduates make to society.

Supported distance learning

We understand that distance learning is different to traditional campus study and if you’re new to online study you may have concerns or apprehensions about studying your MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL online, and that’s natural.

To help put your mind at ease we have a dedicated Distance Learning Support Team to help and support you throughout your time at ARU, starting with your first online induction and staying with you right through to graduation. In addition, you’ll also be supported by specialist TESOL course tutors who are experienced in language teaching methodology. Our expert team are skilled in supporting distance learning students and will provide you with the support you need throughout your studies.

Once you start your MA TESOL and applied linguistics, we encourage the creation of online communities and many of our learners find these connections with others invaluable, helping them to stay motivated, share concerns or make new friendships.

Visit our support page to learn more about our support services.

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Careers

Everything you need to know about building your career in education

What could a masters in TESOL and applied linguistics do for my career?

You may be a UK or international student, living and working outside the UK, working as English language teacher in language school or university setting. As such, you are looking for a distance course which helps you develop your professional understanding and competence with a view to potentially moving into senior and/ or more specialised role. A master’s in TESOL and Applied Linguistics can help you meet your career goals.

This course aims to enhance students’ value to employers in a variety of professional arenas, but particularly in areas related to learning and teaching of languages and applied linguistics.

We'll help you do this by providing you with the tools to further your knowledge and expertise in the field of language learning and, therefore, strengthen your teaching practice in the classroom. You'll develop critical awareness of developments on foreign language teaching and explore the fundamental issues around language, language learning and language teaching.

This course is also suitable for those thinking of a career change. Moving from teacher to job roles such as teacher trainer, language school management, materials writer, course designer, TESOL conference presenter, TESOL in academia, working for exam boards, working in materials and exam publishing.

What job roles can I consider with an MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL?

Potential job roles that relate to teaching and applied linguistics may include:

EFL/TESOL Teacher in a variety of settings
Curriculum Leader
Teacher Trainer
Educational Consultant
Language testing
Curriculum development
Department Head or Director of Studies
Private Tutor
Materials Writer
Management roles in private language schools
University EAP teacher
Working for exam boards

If you are looking for more information about these job profiles and potential salary earnings see Prospects.ac.uk. It’s important to note that salaries can vary widely depending on the job role, employer, industry sector and location.

What skills will I get from a TESOL course to help my career?

What can I study after an Applied Linguistics and TESOL MA?

Careers Advice Service

Once you become an ARU student you will be able to access our Employability service to help you whatever stage of your career, whether that’s landing your dream job or the next progression step.

We offer:

careers advice, including one-to-one online and telephone appointments with our experienced advisers
help with your CV, job searches, applications, and interview preparation
an online portal packed with useful careers resources
our Employability Programme, which helps you hone the skills employers say they want in graduates.

FAQs

A selection of popular questions

Why study your MA TESOL and applied linguistics at ARU?

Studying your MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL at Anglia Ruskin University will give you the flexibility you need to learn on a schedule that suits your other responsibilities. Our online master’s in TESOL is perfect for both UK and international students who wish to teach English as a second or other language, as a TESOL qualification will open up a range of positions for you to apply for when progressing with your career.

The online nature of this Applied Linguistics MA means that you can still work while you study if you choose. So not only will you be able to continue to develop your teaching skills, but you will also be able to apply your newly acquired knowledge on the go.

Our expert tutors are passionate about linguistics, and eager to introduce new researchers and academics to their specialised field of education. The continued diversity of language and the rise of globalisation means that there is an increasing need for language teachers, and our driven team are determined to ensure that everyone receives the language education that they deserve.

What is TESOL?

TESOL stands for Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages. It is a modern qualification that encompasses TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) and TESL (Teaching English as a Second Language). TEFL is usually used to describe teaching English abroad where English is a foreign language, while TESL is a qualification that enables you to teach English to speakers of foreign languages who are currently living in a country where the native language is English.

Although TESOL and TEFL are often used interchangeably, there is a distinction between the two. However, with our TESOL qualification, you’ll gain relevant experience in both teaching English as a foreign language and teaching English as a second language, both of which are increasingly important in the ever diverse globally orientated world.

Why is the study of Applied Linguistics Important?

The study of Applied Linguistics will give you a deeper understanding of the real-life applications of linguistics. This is increasingly vital in an ever globalised and linguistically diverse world.

Applied Linguistics combines research into second language acquisition and the theoretical study of linguistics with sociocultural and socioeconomic issues that can affect how different students learn a new language.

Studying Applied Linguistics is an important step in developing your teaching skills and improving your cross-cultural communication abilities. Our distance learning linguistics degree will set you up for a wide range of career options.

This course is ideal for those pursuing a career teaching English as a second or foreign language, but also has the capacity to enhance your employability in industries such as audiology (as a deeper understanding of speech can be beneficial to those working on hearing disorders and speech therapies), and translation.

What will I learn on this TESOL course?

When you study our MA TESOL online, you will be encouraged to use your own experience of both learning a language and delivering linguistics learning to others in order to assess the existing research into linguistics studies.

You will be taught a variety of approaches to linguistics analysis, and introduced to sociological theories and their impact on language learning. Our Applied Linguistics master’s will also advance your teaching skills through study of course design and classroom practices, allowing you to deliver language lessons that will benefit students from all walks of life.

What support will I receive at ARU?

At Anglia Ruskin University, we are experts when it comes to delivery of online learning, and we work tirelessly to ensure that you receive all the support you need to achieve the success you’ve always dreamed of.

You will study though Canvas, our world class Learning Management System, which is designed to give you access to your course from anywhere in the world, whether you’re on a mobile, tablet or PC device. Canvas allows you to receive support from your tutors and keep in contact with your university peers whenever you need them and wherever you are.

At ARU, our team are on hand to offer you all the support you need and aid you in the completion of your education. Your future employability is important to us, so we have developed an in-depth careers advice programme to ensure that you’ll be fully equipped to achieve your goals.

Take the next step, apply today

Next application deadline: 27th May 2026

Your future, on your terms. Apply now before the application deadline.

Apply now