The program aims at developing knowledge of the theories and methods used in intercultural communication, second language acquisition,language processing, and translation studies. Course topics include interpersonal communication, regional and social variation in language behavior, (im)politeness across cultures, pragmatic competence, writing in a second language, and cognitive processes in translating.

Students in this program are strongly encouraged to design and conduct their own research projects from the outset. For this purpose we offer access to and support in using linguistic research facilities. The Research Centre for Empirical Pragmatics provides students with a variety of research tools such as recording equipment, linguistic corpora, and software for data gathering, processing and analysis.

This program gives an overview of the field of Applied Linguistics and provides specialization in a wide range of subdisciplines. The core modules are intercultural communication, second language acquisition, language processing, and translation studies. Teaching and research supervision are also offered in pragmatics, discourse analysis, genre analysis, sociolinguistics, dialectology, cognitive linguistics, psycholinguistics, and metalexicography.

Focus on research, theories and methods

There is a strong focus on research, theories and methodology. Students are given assistance in developing their own research questions, adopting a suitable theoretical framework and selecting an appropriate method. A variety of research tools can be made available. The module ‘Research Trends’ familiarizes students with current research developments in Applied Linguistics and ongoing research projects worldwide. In this module, internationally renowned scholars give talks and lectures and teach workshops.

Practical orientation

Students are equipped to work with language professionally. The module ‘Professional Development’ provides insights into a range of careers and professions for which Applied Linguistics qualifies students. These include intercultural and communication trainings, international exchange and work programs, translating and multilingual documentation. We have established links with companies and organizations working in these areas, and also with schools in Germany, Canada, and New Zealand. The module ‘Professional Development’ also involves a six-week internship in Germany or abroad.

International profile

The international profile of this program comprises various aspects. There is the option of studying in the USA for one term, where students can take modules in Applied Linguistics at the Graduate School of the State University of New York at Albany. The internship in the module ‘Professional Development’ can be done abroad. Furthermore, we cooperate with scholars around the world. Internationally renowned researchers teach workshops and give talks and lectures. Finally, all courses are taught entirely through the medium of English.