Applied linguistics

A major that speaks to your passion.

Language and communication are a huge part of everyday life. They give us insights into the minds of others—from how we decipher advertisements, to how we feel about ourselves or how we speak with friends and family. 

Studying applied linguistics means increasing your understanding of how language works in a wide range of personal, social and professional environments. It also encompasses how we interact with each other and how we negotiate and establish identity.

With a major in Applied Linguistics, you’ll learn how to express yourself effectively in written and spoken modes, and how the way you communicate helps or hinders your relationships. The major in applied linguistics will touch on practical issues such as the relationship between languages, cultures and societies; the acquisition of second and foreign languages; the teaching and learning of languages; language policy; and cross-cultural communication.

With these skills, you could find yourself teaching languages other than English, negotiating business deals or working with primary and high school students.

How many units?

A major in Applied Linguistics is made up of 36 units, including:

• two Year 1 topics (9 units)
• two Year 2 topics (9 units)
• two Year 3 topics (9 units)
• plus two additional topics (9 units) from the Year 2 or Year 3 topics.

Applied Linguistics can also be taken as a minor. Your 22.5 units will include:

• two Year 1 topics (9 units)
• two Year 2 topics (9 units)
• plus an additional topic (4.5 units) from the Year 2 or Year 3 topics.

Add a year of Honours

Kickstart your career or future in research with one extra year.

By adding just one year full-time to your undergraduate degree, you can graduate with Honours. Enhance your career prospects, delve deeper into knowledge or launch yourself into the world of research.