Why Study / Key Benefits

• The Master of Applied Linguistics (MAppLing) is designed for professionals working in language teaching, TESOL, communication, education and multilingual settings.
• It combines practical and research skills for understanding and addressing real-world language issues in domestic and international contexts.
• Students explore language use, language learning and language teaching through theories, research methods and problem-based approaches.
• The programme addresses language in diverse and digitally connected environments.
• Massey identifies research strengths in heritage-language learning, mother-tongue maintenance, online second-language communities, distance and online language learning, multilingualism, oral proficiency, language learning and emotion, teaching and assessment, and language-education policy.
• Students complete either a research report or a substantial thesis, allowing them to investigate a contemporary language issue connected to their professional or academic interests.
• Teaching is supported by researchers with expertise across applied linguistics who supervise research projects connected to real-world language and communication issues.

Programme Structure and Subjects / Topics

The MAppLing is a parts-based qualification, meaning students must meet the requirements for Part One before progressing to Part Two.

Coursework Pathway

Part One requires 120 credits. Current subject courses include:

• 272702 Second Language Learning Theories and Processes – 30 credits
  Examines theoretical perspectives explaining second-language learning processes.
• 272703 Contemporary Approaches to Language Teaching Methodology – 30 credits
  Examines approaches and methods used to develop language skills.
• 272704 Contextualising Curriculum and Materials Design – 30 credits
  Covers principles and practices of curriculum and materials design in different contexts.
• 272706 Discourse Analysis – 30 credits
  Covers advanced theoretical and analytical frameworks for analysing discourse and applying them to empirical data.
• 272707 Language Documentation – 30 credits
  Introduces practical language documentation, including ethical responsibilities and communicating documentation outcomes to communities and wider audiences.
• 272715 Current Issues in Applied Linguistics – 30 credits
  Examines contemporary applied-linguistics issues from theoretical and practical perspectives.

The current programme structure requires selection from the approved course list rather than taking all six courses.

Part Two – Coursework Pathway

• 272873 Research Report – 60 credits

This is supervised and guided independent research.

Research Pathway

Part One requires 60 credits of coursework, followed by:

• 272816 Thesis 120 Credit Part 1 – 60 credits
• 272817 Thesis 120 Credit Part 2 – 60 credits

The thesis involves supervised and guided independent research resulting in a substantial research work.

Progression requirements:

• Coursework Pathway: at least a B grade average in the 120 Part One credits.
• Research Pathway: at least a B+ grade average in the first 60 credits of Part One.

Disciplines / Specialisations

The MAppLing can be completed:

• Without a specialisation
• Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)

Programme Highlights

• NZQF Level 9 Master's degree.
• 180 credits.
• 1.5 years full-time.
• Part-time study available.
• Distance and online study available.
• Manawat campus available.
• International students can study on campus in New Zealand or online from outside New Zealand.
• Two main study pathways: Coursework and Research.
• Research report or 120-credit thesis options.
• Optional TESOL specialisation.
• Strong focus on second-language learning, language teaching, multilingualism, discourse, curriculum and materials, language documentation and current applied-linguistics issues.
• Research opportunities can address practical language issues in multilingual and digitally connected environments.
• Massey's current research strengths include heritage languages, mother-tongue maintenance, online second-language communities, intercultural experiences, multilingualism, oral proficiency and language-education policy.

Career Outcomes

Massey identifies career opportunities for MAppLing graduates nationally and internationally in areas including:

• TESOL and language education
• Multilingual and intercultural communication
• Curriculum and assessment design
• Language policy
• Educational leadership
• Migrant and refugee support
• Research and consultancy
• Online and distance language learning
• International education
• Cultural and community engagement
• Language-related roles in government
• Education and non-government organisations.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• The current qualification remains 180 credits and 1.5 years full-time.
• The current programme has both Coursework and Research pathways.
• A B average is required for progression through the Coursework Pathway.
• A B+ average in the first 60 credits is required for progression through the Research Pathway.
• The Research Pathway contains a 120-credit thesis, making the programme potentially suitable for students seeking substantial research experience.
• Applicants need a CV showing teaching and related work experience as part of the application documentation.
• TESOL applicants have an additional relevant teaching/related-experience requirement approved by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
• Advanced entry can be possible for applicants with specified prior postgraduate qualifications and approved credit.
• Massey notes that qualification structures and available courses can change, so returning students should consult the current regulations.

International Student Visa Requirements

International students studying the MAppLing physically in New Zealand will generally require a New Zealand Fee Paying Student Visa.

Immigration New Zealand currently requires applicants to:

• Have an offer of place from an approved education provider.
• Have enough money to pay tuition fees or have an applicable scholarship.
• Have sufficient funds for living expenses or an acceptable sponsor.
• Have acceptable medical and travel insurance.
• Meet health and character requirements.
• Have a genuine reason for studying in New Zealand.
• Demonstrate that they can leave New Zealand at the end of their stay.
• Meet applicable attendance and satisfactory-progress requirements while studying.