The Graduate Diploma in Language Studies is a 36-unit coursework program offered by the College of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences. It is only available as an exit award for students who are enrolled in the Master of Language Studies.

Course aims

The course aims to:

  • provide an advanced level of understanding of one of the following areas of specialisation: Cultural Studies and/or Applied Linguistics, relative to French, Italian, Modern Greek, Spanish, Indonesian, or Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL), according to the option chosen
  • expose students to an in-depth body of knowledge relative to the above area of specialisation
  • train students to form broad conceptual understandings while gaining depth of knowledge of a particular area of specialisation, through coursework and through a supervised study project
  • provide high-level practical language training
  • provide vocational knowledge and abilities in areas relevant to the language professional.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, graduates will:

  • demonstrate broad knowledge of Cultural Studies and/or Applied Linguistics Studies, relative to French, Italian, Modern Greek, Spanish, Indonesian, or TESOL, according to the area of specialisation chosen
  • demonstrate high-level critical understanding of complex theories and principles underpinning the chosen area of Language Studies, and knowledge of current issues therein
  • be able to communicate at a high level of competence in language skills intrinsic to specialised vocational applications
  • demonstrate advanced level of knowledge and skills in relation to cross-cultural communication
  • demonstrate understanding and respect for cultural and linguistic diversity at both local and global levels. 

Program of study

To qualify for the Graduate Diploma in Language Studies a student must complete 36 units with a grade of P or NGP or better in each topic, according to the following program of study:

Option topics

36 units chosen from the following:

Research Preparation

 LANG7413  Preparing for Language Studies Research  (4.5 units)

Applied Linguistics

 LANG7007  Computer-Mediated Communication for Language Learning  (4.5 units)
 LANG8001  Introduction to Second Language Acquisition  (4.5 units)
 LANG8002  Second Language Teaching Methodology  (4.5 units)
 LANG8003  Introduction to Classroom-based Research  (4.5 units)
 LANG8606  Language in Society  (4.5 units)
 LING7101  Special Topic in Applied Linguistics  (4.5 units)
 LING7102  Cross-cultural Pragmatics and Intercultural Communication  (4.5 units)
 LING8605  Intercultural Communication in Everyday Life and the Workplace  (4.5 units)

Language and Cultural Studies

 LANG7401  Language Studies A  (4.5 units)
 LANG7402  Language Studies B  (4.5 units)
 LANG7411  Culture Studies A  (4.5 units)
 LANG7412  Culture Studies B  (4.5 units)
 LANG8503  Literature and Society  (4.5 units)
 LANG8508  Migrant Journeys: Cultures, Identities and Belonging GE  (4.5 units)
 LANG8701  Study Abroad Program  (4.5 units)

Teaching English as a Second Language

 ESOL8001  Second Language Learning and Teaching  (4.5 units)
 ESOL8002  Second Language Testing  (4.5 units)
 ESOL8003  Introduction to English Linguistics  (4.5 units)
 ESOL9004  TESOL Methodology  (4.5 units)
 ESOL9005  ESOL Pedagogy  (4.5 units)
 ESOL9006  English as a Global Language  (4.5 units)