The Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics at Penn State is designed to train scholars who will conduct systematic research into individual and societal multilingualism. This program aims to build and test theories regarding how linguistic systems develop, are acquired, used, and taught in a global context. You will engage with foundational theories and research in linguistics, applied linguistics, second language acquisition, psycholinguistics, and sociolinguistics. The curriculum encourages the use of diverse research methodologies, including both qualitative and quantitative approaches, such as sociocultural, historical, linguistic, stylistic, and discourse analysis. The ultimate goal of research within this program is to deeply understand the multifaceted nature of language as a tool for social existence, communication, and cognition. Graduates are prepared to contribute to scholarly understanding and practice in the field of applied linguistics.
Tuition and fees apply regardless of instructional mode. International students should refer to the Non-Pennsylvania Resident rates.
The application deadline for Ph.D. applicants is December 15. Applications become available on June 15.
The program trains scholars to conduct research into multilingualism, focusing on how linguistic systems develop, are acquired, used, and taught in a global context.
The curriculum encourages diverse research methodologies, including qualitative and quantitative approaches such as sociocultural, historical, linguistic, stylistic, and discourse analysis.
International students should refer to the Non-Pennsylvania Resident rates. Specific tuition rates vary by campus and academic year, and can be found in the official Tuition and Fees Schedules.
First, review the Graduate Degree Bulletin and the Fox Graduate School admissions process. Then, prepare your application materials, including test scores and recommendation letters. Finally, submit your online application by the December 15 deadline.