CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITY · UNITED STATES
Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition (MA-ALSLA)
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
18 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€52k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 5-10 students admitted annuallyClass Size
- Focus on higher education teachingCareer Focus
- Opportunities in international ESL educationGlobal Demand
- Graduates pursue doctoral studies or secure academic positionsAlumni Success
The Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics & Second Language Acquisition (MA-ALSLA) program is designed to prepare students for teaching opportunities in higher education. While the program primarily targets roles in higher education, graduates may also find opportunities at the secondary level, although formal secondary certification is not provided by this program. The curriculum is structured to be completed over two resident semesters, with a total of ten courses, emphasizing a tightly integrated learning experience.
Curriculum
The MA-ALSLA program is a structured curriculum designed to be completed within two resident semesters, totaling ten courses. Credit for courses taken previously at the undergraduate level or other institutions is generally not permitted due to the program's integrated nature and the requirement for some courses to be taken concurrently. Any exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis by the program director and do not alter the residency or cost requirements.
- Year 1
- Year 2
Careers
Graduates of the MA-ALSLA program are competitive for a variety of positions in higher education, private secondary schools, and international ESL education. Alumni have secured roles at universities, colleges, and private schools across the United States and have also pursued doctoral studies.
- Higher education teaching positions
- Secondary school teaching (non-certified opportunities)
- International English as a Second Language (ESL) education
- Academic positions at four-year universities
- Community college positions
- Private secondary school positions
Frequently asked questions
- What are the entry requirements for the MA-ALSLA program?
- Applicants need a relevant undergraduate degree and should demonstrate proficiency at the advanced-high level in the language they intend to teach, as per ACTFL standards. English proficiency can be shown through TOEFL or IELTS scores, though the admissions committee may request interviews for lower scores.
- How much does the MA-ALSLA program cost per year?
- For the 2026-2027 academic year, the tuition is $60,900. The estimated total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, living expenses, books, and other costs, is $34,018 plus tuition and health insurance.
- How long does the MA-ALSLA program take to complete?
- The MA-ALSLA program is designed to be completed within two resident semesters, totaling ten courses. Credit for previous coursework is generally not permitted.
- What are the application deadlines for the MA-ALSLA program?
- Applications for Fall 2027 admissions open on September 9, 2026. Students are admitted for the fall semester only.
- What career opportunities are available after completing the MA-ALSLA program?
- Graduates are prepared for teaching roles in higher education, private secondary schools, and international ESL education. Alumni have secured positions at universities, colleges, and private schools, or pursued doctoral studies.
- Are there any scholarships available for MA-ALSLA students?
- While specific program scholarships are not detailed, Carnegie Mellon University offers grants for conference presentations, professional engagement, and scholarly projects through the Graduate Student Assembly and Office of the Provost.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA relevant undergraduate degree is expected.
TOEFLTypically high scores required. Admissions committee may request interviews for students with lower scores.
IELTSAdmissions committee may request interviews for students with lower scores.
ACTFLStudents should be rated at the advanced-high level in the language they intend to teach.
Interviews may be requested for applicants with lower TOEFL or IELTS scores. Applicants are expected to demonstrate proficiency at the advanced-high level (according to ACTFL) in the language they wish to teach.
Fees
Tuition (international)The academic year tuition for Master's programs in the Mellon College of Science (MCS) for 2026-2027 is $60,900.
Tuition (home)The academic year tuition for Master's programs in the Mellon College of Science (MCS) for 2026-2027 is $60,900.
LivingEstimated total cost of attendance per academic year (including tuition, fees, living expenses, books, etc.) is $34,018 plus tuition and health insurance.
Tuition is charged per academic year. Estimated living expenses include housing, food, books and supplies, personal expenses, travel, and transportation. Health insurance cost is TBD. Loan fees may apply for students using federal loans.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online ApplicationSubmit all required documents through the online application portal.
2. Submit TranscriptsUpload a PDF of the most recent transcript from each college and/or university attended.
3. Upload ResumeSubmit your resume in PDF format.
4. Write Statement of PurposeClearly articulate your research interests, experience, and objectives. An optional paragraph can be included to describe contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts.
5. Secure Letters of RecommendationArrange for three letters of recommendation, with at least two from faculty members or recent employers.
6. Submit English Proficiency ScoresProvide TOEFL or IELTS scores if English is not your native language. Waivers are not issued.
7. Record Audio StatementSubmit a three-minute unscripted audio recording in the language you intend to teach. Describe your language experience and professional goals. If applying in multiple languages, provide a separate recording for each.
Scholarships
Conference FundingVaries
Professional Engagement FundingVaries
Scholarly Project Funding$750
Frequently asked questions
What are the entry requirements for the MA-ALSLA program?
+
Applicants need a relevant undergraduate degree and should demonstrate proficiency at the advanced-high level in the language they intend to teach, as per ACTFL standards. English proficiency can be shown through TOEFL or IELTS scores, though the admissions committee may request interviews for lower scores.
How much does the MA-ALSLA program cost per year?
+
For the 2026-2027 academic year, the tuition is $60,900. The estimated total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, living expenses, books, and other costs, is $34,018 plus tuition and health insurance.
How long does the MA-ALSLA program take to complete?
+
The MA-ALSLA program is designed to be completed within two resident semesters, totaling ten courses. Credit for previous coursework is generally not permitted.
What are the application deadlines for the MA-ALSLA program?
+
Applications for Fall 2027 admissions open on September 9, 2026. Students are admitted for the fall semester only.
What career opportunities are available after completing the MA-ALSLA program?
+
Graduates are prepared for teaching roles in higher education, private secondary schools, and international ESL education. Alumni have secured positions at universities, colleges, and private schools, or pursued doctoral studies.
Are there any scholarships available for MA-ALSLA students?
+
While specific program scholarships are not detailed, Carnegie Mellon University offers grants for conference presentations, professional engagement, and scholarly projects through the Graduate Student Assembly and Office of the Provost.