CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€52k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 1 YearProgram Duration
- Full-time or Part-timeEnrollment Options
- Specialization OptionsLanguages: Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, ESL
- Research and Teaching FocusDevelop practical skills
- Career PreparationHigher education, schools, global settings
The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition (ALSLA) is an intensive one-year program designed for both domestic and international students. It prepares you for careers in language education and research, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as language learning research and teaching specific languages including Arabic, Chinese, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, Spanish, and English as a Second Language (ESL). The program combines traditional coursework in applied linguistics with hands-on experience in research, mentored language teaching, and professional communication strategies. You will take five graduate courses per semester. Full-time and part-time enrollment options are available, with the full-time program typically completed in one academic year and part-time over up to eight semesters. This program leverages the strengths of Carnegie Mellon University's Department of Languages, Cultures & Applied Linguistics, focusing on second language acquisition, language program administration, cultural studies, pedagogy, and technology-enhanced learning. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in higher education, private schools, public secondary schools, and various other settings globally, or for further graduate studies.
Curriculum
The M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program focuses on teaching and applied linguistics research as it applies to teaching and learning. Students will engage in rigorous coursework and practical application.
- Year 1
- Graduate Courses in Applied Linguistics
- Second Language Acquisition Theory
- Language Pedagogy
- Technology-Enhanced Learning
- Research Methods in Applied Linguistics
- Mentored Language Teaching Experience
Careers
Graduates of the M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program are prepared for diverse career opportunities in language education and research, both domestically and internationally.
- Language Teacher (ESL, foreign languages)
- Curriculum Developer
- Instructional Designer
- Language Program Administrator
- Educational Researcher
- Language Acquisition Specialist
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition and living costs for the M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program?
- The tuition fee is USD $60,900 per academic year. Estimated living expenses are $34,018 per academic year, excluding health insurance. These costs are the same for domestic and international students.
- How long does the M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program take to complete?
- The full-time program is typically completed in one academic year. Part-time enrollment is also available and can be completed over up to eight semesters.
- What are the application deadlines for the M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program?
- The application opens on September 1st for the following fall admission. The early admission deadline is December 1st, and the regular deadline is March 1st. Late applications may be considered if space permits.
- What are the entry requirements for the program?
- Applicants must have completed a four-year undergraduate degree. While prior teaching experience is not strictly required, it is encouraged. International applicants must submit TOEFL scores as waivers are not issued.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Language Teacher, Curriculum Developer, Instructional Designer, Language Program Administrator, Educational Researcher, and Language Acquisition Specialist in various educational settings globally.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeCompletion of a four-year undergraduate degree is required for admission.
While no prior teaching experience is strictly required, it is encouraged. Applicants are expected to demonstrate proficiency in applied linguistics research and teaching practices.
Fees
Tuition (international)USD $60,900 per academic year
Tuition (home)USD $60,900 per academic year
LivingEstimated $34,018 per academic year (includes housing, food, books, personal expenses, travel, transportation, and technology fees. Health insurance is additional and TBD).
The tuition fee is the same for domestic and international students. Living expenses are estimates and can vary based on individual needs and choices.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationAccess the online application portal for graduate admissions. Ensure all required sections are filled out accurately.
2. Submit TranscriptsUpload a PDF of your most recent transcript from each college and university attended, even if no degree was granted.
3. Upload ResumeSubmit your resume in PDF format, highlighting relevant experience and academic background.
4. Write Statement of PurposeClearly articulate your research interests, relevant experience, and career objectives. You are also invited to include an optional paragraph on contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
5. Obtain Letters of RecommendationRequest three letters of recommendation. At least two should be from faculty members or recent employers who can speak to your academic and professional capabilities.
6. Submit English Proficiency Scores (if applicable)If English is not your native language, a TOEFL score is required. The program does not issue waivers for non-native English speakers under any circumstances, including prior study in English-speaking environments.
7. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee to finalize your submission.
Scholarships
Graduate Student Conference Funding—
Professional Engagement Funding—
Scholarly Project Funding$750
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition and living costs for the M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program?
+
The tuition fee is USD $60,900 per academic year. Estimated living expenses are $34,018 per academic year, excluding health insurance. These costs are the same for domestic and international students.
How long does the M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program take to complete?
+
The full-time program is typically completed in one academic year. Part-time enrollment is also available and can be completed over up to eight semesters.
What are the application deadlines for the M.A. in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition program?
+
The application opens on September 1st for the following fall admission. The early admission deadline is December 1st, and the regular deadline is March 1st. Late applications may be considered if space permits.
What are the entry requirements for the program?
+
Applicants must have completed a four-year undergraduate degree. While prior teaching experience is not strictly required, it is encouraged. International applicants must submit TOEFL scores as waivers are not issued.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Language Teacher, Curriculum Developer, Instructional Designer, Language Program Administrator, Educational Researcher, and Language Acquisition Specialist in various educational settings globally.