English Language and Applied Linguistics

Join a department that is recognised internationally for its excellent research in applied linguistics and Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). 100% of our research is of international standing (REF 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – Modern Languages and Linguistics).

Reading's Department of English Language and Linguistics has nearly 60 years of excellence in the field. David Crystal OBE (awarded for services to the English language, 1995) set up the first linguistics degree at the University of Reading, and sociolinguistics was born at Reading.  

With 1,500 graduates in more than 40 countries pursuing careers in education, governmental and industry-related fields at all levels, the University’s long-established MA TESOL is dedicated to building expertise in the field.

Our postgraduate programmes promote intellectual rigour, imaginative insight and critical awareness, and develop professionals who are thoughtful practitioners. They are flexibly delivered to suit individual needs, and all modules are carefully designed to connect theory to practice. We’re in the top 150 universities in the world for these subjects (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024).

Specialist tracks are available for those with and without teaching experience. You can choose either a dissertation or pre-service teaching experience track, and pick from an exceptionally wide range of core and optional modules. Those who already have teaching experience can take the MA TESOL dissertation track. Those who do not have teaching experience, can take our pre-service teaching experience MA TESOL with a portfolio of teaching-related assignments. 

Both independence and interactional competence are promoted through our mix of lectures, small-class seminars and blended online support. Our Department supplements University student support services with individual academic tutor support and academic study skills training.

Looking for postgraduate research opportunities?

Come to Reading for your PhD or professional doctorate and join a talented and diverse community of fellow researchers working to improve lives across the globe.

• Postgraduate research at Reading