MA Program (ALDS)
Our MA program emphasizes the central role that language plays in educational, workplace, community and other social contexts. Students can draw on one or both of the fields of Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies to suit their own study and research goals.
This comprehensive graduate program is unique in North America as these two fields are typically housed in different departments or faculties at other universities.
Collaborative Specializations in African Studies and Digital Humanities are also available.
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- Full-time or part-time study (a full-time load is typically three courses per semester)
- September intake
- One required course each of the first two terms of the program
- Professional ESL teacher accreditation option (learn more)
- Elective courses in the two fields can be combined according to one’s own research interests
- Hands-on research
Admission Requirements
Before applying for the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies, please ensure that you meet the Admission and Program Requirements.
Program Requirements
Students will establish their program path (thesis pathway, research essay pathway, or coursework pathway) in consultation with the School’s supervisor of graduate studies.
Accelerated Pathway to MA
Students taking or planning to take a BA Honours or Combined Honours degree in Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies may wish to consider the Accelerated Pathway for entry into the MA program.
Funding
The possibilities for financial aid and assistance vary depending on whether you are a new student or a continuing student.
Future Opportunities | What Can I Do With a Graduate Degree in Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies?
We also offer a TESL Stream
ALDS MA students with documented previous experience in teaching English as second or foreign language (ESL/EFL) may follow a sequence of courses in their MA program leading to professional certification as a teacher of English to adults.
Applying to the MA in Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies
The deadline for MA applications is February 1. Applications received after this date may be considered if there is still space. Applying by the deadline increases your chances of admission and of receiving financial assistance.
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- A personal statement of goals and interests. In this, we would like you to take up to 500 words to describe your goals for graduate work. You should discuss your interest in the area you wish to pursue, including your reflections on any relevant previous study or practical experience. Also, as far as it is now possible, you can tentatively identify the courses you are interested in and the research questions you want to investigate.
- References from two academic referees. You will be asked to provide contact information for at least two academic referees. Once payment of the application fee has been made, Carleton University will contact the referees by email and request them to submit a reference for you. These references should be from university professors who can comment on your past academic work and your aptitude for success in our program. The more specific the referees are in describing your academic performance, the easier it is for us to make a well-informed decision. If you are unable to identify two academic referees, it is permissible to substitute ONE professional referee who can attest to your professional abilities.
- Transcripts of all of your previous undergraduate grades (and graduate grades, if you have already done graduate work), along with a confirmation of the conferred degree. If these are not in English, you must also provide a translation. You will be able to upload your transcripts in the application system. If you are accepted into the program, you will be asked to provide official transcripts.
- Language Proficiency. It is important that you realize that your English has to be strong enough in practice to undertake a demanding program that requires extensive academic reading and writing as well as active participation in seminar discussions and oral presentations. Applicants will be required to confirm their English language proficiency using the Confirmation of Language Proficiency form or they will be required to provide an English language proficiency test score. More information.
- Your C.V. or resumé.
- A sample of an academic paper you have written (in English) that you are particularly proud of and which you think represents your interests and abilities well.
- International Applicants. If you have received an Offer of Admission, you will be required to submit a Course-by-Course evaluation (WES ICAP) from World Education Services (WES Canada). You will be notified at that time, if this is the case. More information.
Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies (ALDS) Courses in the Graduate Calendar
Not all courses listed in the undergraduate calendar are offered in a given academic term.
Public Schedule: Current Course Offerings
The public schedule displays current course offerings.
Tuition Fees
Visit the Student Accounts Receivable website for more information about tuition fees.
Program Path
Carleton University offers three possible program paths to complete the Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies.
Learn More About Student Life in SLaLS
Sift through current student forms and resources, meet your student groups, and discover opportunities on- and off-campus!
Contact the Graduate Team
Angel Arias
- Assistant Professor and Graduate Supervisor (Applied Linguistics & Discourse Studies)
- AngelArias@cunet.carleton.ca
