University Of Leicester United Kingdom

Applied Linguistics and TESOL MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 2 Years
Mode Online
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon October 2026

Course Overview

The MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL at the University of Leicester is designed for experienced English language teachers seeking to deepen their expertise and expand their professional horizons. You will explore advanced topics in linguistics and their practical application to language learning and teaching, developing a critical awareness of contemporary approaches and issues. This online Masters degree equips you to analyse language structure and use in depth, employing up-to-date research methods. It is ideal for those who want to build on existing knowledge and enhance their understanding of how English works and how to teach it effectively.

Studied online and full-time over two years, this programme allows for flexible learning to accommodate your professional life. You will engage with comprehensive, research-informed module materials and benefit from the guidance of experienced ELT professionals and internationally recognized academic experts. Through core modules and a choice of option modules in areas like Corpus Linguistics, Technology Enhanced Language Learning, or Materials Design, you will tailor your studies to your interests. You will also develop essential research skills through the Research Methods and Dissertation module, preparing you for further doctoral study or advanced roles in TESOL.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA program in Applied Linguistics and TESOL offers a comprehensive exploration of second language acquisition, pedagogical approaches, and linguistic analysis. You will delve into the theoretical underpinnings of teaching and learning a second language, examine grammar and pronunciation from both theoretical and practical perspectives, and analyze language within its social contexts. The curriculum also includes essential research methods and culminates in a dissertation, with a wide array of optional modules allowing for specialization in areas such as teacher education, technology-enhanced learning, corpus linguistics, materials and course design, English for Specific Purposes, and intercultural communication.

1 Core modules

Teaching and Learning a Second Language
Exploring Grammar and Pronunciation: From Theory to Practice
Analysing Language in Social Contexts
Research Methods and Dissertation

2 Option modules

Teacher Education
Technology Enhanced Language Learning
Corpus Linguistics and Language Learning
Materials Design and Development
Course and Syllabus Design
English for Specific Purposes
Intercultural Communication

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 16,355.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 16,355.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 32,711.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 624.00 - USD 867.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,611.00 - USD 12,179.00
Estimated Total USD 5,800.00 - USD 18,623.00

Living cost estimates are based on Leicester Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Adult & Continuing EducationCrop Production & FarmingFisheries & AquacultureFood Processing & ManufacturingHealthcare ConsultingJournalism & ReportingMedia Production & EditingMental Health & CounselingPublic Broadcasting & DocumentaryVocational & Technical Training

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Council

NHS

National Farmers'​ Union

Why Study Applied Linguistics and TESOL MA at University Of Leicester

What makes this program stand out

October 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in October 2026

Moderate Application response time

University Of Leicester typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at University Of Leicester in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Applied Linguistics and TESOL MA at University Of Leicester

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for this course.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific score thresholds vary by test, so check the details carefully.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue roles such as ESL Teacher, Language Analyst, Curriculum Developer, Educational Consultant, and Language Program Director.

What will I actually study in this course?

If you already have at least one year’s TESOL experience, our MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL (distance learning) will broaden and deepen your understanding of linguistics and its application to language learning and teaching. Explore how English works and how to analyse it. Choose optional modules that align with your professional interests and boost your career options. Join a thriving community of professional ELT teachers and learn with comprehensive, research-informed module

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Applied Linguistics and TESOL has two intakes each year, in April and October. Make sure to prepare your application materials ahead of these dates.
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