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Applied Linguistics (MA)

In our applied linguistics MA, you’ll study linguistic topics and research methods, focusing on second language acquisition in all its diversity. This includes the practice and methodologies of teaching second languages. You’ll pursue your research under a supervisor with expert knowledge in your topic. Our program offers both thesis- and project-based options.

You may also be interested in our one-year Diploma in Applied Linguistics. It's a shorter and more focused alternative to this master’s program.

Expected length Project or thesis Course-based
2 years Yes No

Quick facts

Program options:
Master's
Study options:
Full-time study
Program delivery:
On-campus
Dynamic learning:
Co-op optional

Outcomes

Students in this program will:

  • develop graduate-level knowledge in a wide range of topics in applied linguistics and second language teaching and learning
  • develop a solid grounding in current applied linguistics theories to explain language acquisition and development
  • develop a solid knowledge of the principles and mechanisms involved in how language is acquired and used and their implications for language instruction
  • develop skills in a variety of research methodologies and their applications in applied linguistics, including skills in designing empirical research and analyzing and interpreting data
  • develop knowledge in specialized areas of linguistics appropriate to their studies, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, sociolinguistics and Indigenous language revitalization
  • develop an ability to contribute to the field of applied linguistics and other related disciplines

Find a supervisor

All graduate students in this program must have a faculty member who serves as their academic supervisor. We recommend listing a potential supervisor on your application.

To find a potential supervisor, review the faculty contacts.

Alexandra D'Arcy

Professor, Associate Dean Research, Humanities Variationist sociolinguistics

Hossein Nassaji

Professor Applied linguistics

Hua Lin

Associate Professor Second language phonetics and phonology, Chinese linguistics

John Archibald

Professor, Graduate Advisor Second language phonology

Li-Shih Huang

Professor, Learning & Teaching Scholar-in-Residence, Undergraduate Advisor Applied linguistics

Martha McGinnis

Associate Professor, Chair Syntax, morphology

Sonya Bird

Associate Professor Phonetics, language revitalization

Suzanne Urbanczyk

Associate Professor, Advisor - Certificate in Indigenous Language Revitalization Phonology, morphology, language revitalization

Show me program details

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Your program details

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Application deadlines

September entry – apply by January 15

September entry – apply by January 15

Admission requirements

  • completion of a 4-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), preferably in linguistics, from a university recognized by UVic
  • a minimum overall B+ average in the final year of your bachelor’s degree
  • proof of English language proficiency if first language is not English*

*The minimum required scores to be admitted to this program are:

  • TOEFL: the minimum score is 600 on the standard paper-based test, 250 on the computer-based test, or 100 on the internet-based test
  • IELTS: the minimum score is 7 on all components of the test

Learn more about language requirements, including allowable exemptions and tests.

Review our general admission requirements for more information.

Program specific requirements

You must include the following with your application:

  • a letter of intent (maximum 2 pages) outlining:
    • why you chose to apply to the UVic linguistics graduate program,
    • how your background has prepared you for this program, and
    • what area of study you hope to specialize in
  • transcripts from the post-secondary institutions at which you have studied
  • two letters of reference
  • your most up-to-date curriculum vitae (résumé)
  • a writing sample: maximum 5 pages of a publication or major term paper that represents your experience in linguistics (and/or related fields), and writing style. Partial papers are acceptable.
  • completion of a 4-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), preferably in linguistics, from a university recognized by UVic
  • a minimum overall B+ average in the final year of your bachelor’s degree
  • proof of English language proficiency if first language is not English*

*The minimum required scores to be admitted to this program are:

  • TOEFL: the minimum score is 600 on the standard paper-based test, 250 on the computer-based test, or 100 on the internet-based test
  • IELTS: the minimum score is 7 on all components of the test

Learn more about language requirements, including allowable exemptions and tests.

Review our general admission requirements for more information.

Program specific requirements

You must include the following with your application:

  • a letter of intent (maximum 2 pages) outlining:
    • why you chose to apply to the UVic linguistics graduate program,
    • how your background has prepared you for this program, and
    • what area of study you hope to specialize in
  • transcripts from the post-secondary institutions at which you have studied
  • two letters of reference
  • your most up-to-date curriculum vitae (résumé)
  • a writing sample: maximum 5 pages of a publication or major term paper that represents your experience in linguistics (and/or related fields), and writing style. Partial papers are acceptable.

Completion requirements

View the minimum course requirements for this program.

View the minimum course requirements for this program.

Funding & aid

Tuition & fees

Estimated minimum program cost*

* Based on an average program length. For a per term fee breakdown view the tuition fee estimator.

Estimated values determined by the tuition fee estimator shall not be binding to the University of Victoria.

Ready to apply?

You can start your online application to UVic by creating a new profile or using an existing one.

Apply now    How to apply

Need help?

Contact Emmanuelle Guenette at linggradsec@uvic.ca

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