First, second and subsequent language acquisition is a complex process, with a knowledge base combining diverse areas including applied linguistics, psychology, education and assessment.

Our Master of Arts program is designed to integrate these important elements in an educational experience promoting a high level of expertise and professionalism.

We currently offer opportunities for graduate studies in Applied Linguistics for those interested in the field of Teaching English as a Second/Subsequent Language (TESL), as well as for those with an interest in applying linguistics more generally, or to other domains, including Speech Communication Disorders.

Graduates of this professional program will be well-prepared to become TESL professionals, practicing in Canada or abroad AND/OR prepared for future graduate pursuits in fields related to Applied Linguistics, including Speech Language Pathology.

Program Length: 12 months to 2 years depending on previous educational background in related disciplines and choice of program (i.e., course-based or thesis-based).

Course-based stream

Length: The program lasts a full 12 months. Students will complete eight courses from September to April and a two-course equivalent capping project or two electives from May-August.

To be considered for admission to the Course-based stream, a student will normally hold a four-year degree, or its equivalent, from an accredited university with a minimum 75% (mid-B) average over the last two years of full-time undergraduate study.

Specific prerequisites: Normally, we require a four-year undergraduate degree in a related discipline.  However, strong applicants who lack an academic background in TESL/Linguistics/Applied Linguistics will be automatically considered for our two-year program. This includes a qualifying year, followed by the 12-month MA program.

All applicants who have not studied in a recognized institution for three years or more in Canada, the United States, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Australia or New Zealand must present an English language proficiency test score from within the last two years that meet with the entry criteria requirements noted below.

• TOEFL PBT 575
• TOEFL CBT 231
• TOEFL iBT 90
• TWE 5
• TSE 50
• IELTS 7 and writing band 7 (no individual score under 6.5)

Language of instruction waivers are not accepted for the MA Applied Linguistics (TESL) program. English language proficiency test scores are accepted for application purposes for up to 2 years from the test date.

The Course-based MA Applied Linguistics (TESL) stream does not include any financial support.

Research-based stream

Length: 12 months for Course work and Major Research Paper Streams (Candidates should anticipate commencing in September). For the Research streams, course work will normally be completed by April and the Major Research Paper completed by the end of August) OR in the case of a thesis, be completed between December and August of the student’s second year.

To be considered for admission to a Master’s program, a student will normally hold a four-year degree, or its equivalent, from an accredited university with a minimum 75% (mid-B) average over the last two years of full-time undergraduate study.

Prerequisites:  Normally we require a four-year undergraduate degree in a related discipline.  However, strong applicants who lack an academic background in TESL/Linguistics/Applied Linguistics will be automatically considered for our two-year program. This includes a qualifying year, followed by the 12-month MA program.

All applicants who have not studied in a recognized institution for three years or more in Canada, the United States, England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Australia or New Zealand must present an English language proficiency test score from within the last two years that meet with the entry criteria requirements noted below.

• TOEFL PBT 630
• TOEFL CBT 267
• TOEFL iBT 109
• TWE 5.5
• TSE 55
• IELTS 8 and writing band 8 (no individual score under 7.5)

Language of instruction waivers are not accepted for the MA Applied Linguistics (TESL) program. English language proficiency test scores are accepted for application purposes for up to 2 years from the test date.

Direct Entry may offer funding, including paid Teaching Assistant assignments. The amount of funding will be outlined in an applicant’s offer letter.