Objectiveshis is a Masters level course leading to the degree of MA in English Language Studies. It combines a specialist taught course covering a wide range of topics within English linguistics with primary research conducted by each course member, under supervision, in an area of her or his interest. The course runs part-time over two years and is taught over the first three semesters through a combination of part-time evening attendance - a maximum of one evening per week - and supported on-line learning. The fourth semester is devoted to research by students, and the writing of a dissertation.
Entry requirementsThe programme is particularly relevant to: * Teachers wishing to become better equipped for the teaching of English language and linguistics; * Professionals working outside the field of education for whom an understanding of the forms and uses of English is important; * Students wishing to go on to undertake a research degree in English language or linguistics; * Individuals who are motivated to extend their knowledge of English, as it is used in their own lives and in the language repertoires of speakers across the world.
Academic titleMA English Language Studies
Course descriptionWhat will I study?
Taught course content is organised into a series of modules, offering critical approaches to topics such as: accents of English, in relation to regional and social variation; the analysis of conversational English occurring in monolingual and bilingual settings; uses of English in schools and classrooms; English language and literacies in the modern world; language, gender and sexuality; aspects of the history of English; generative approaches to the description of English.
In addition, a research methods module enables students to acquire an understanding of the theoretical principles underpinning language research and practical familiarity with research tools and resources. This prepares students for conducting their dissertation project.
How will I study?
The course combines face-to-face teaching sessions with on-line supported learning. A non-assessed foundation module focuses on essential knowledge in the fields of grammar and phonology and offers opportunities for familiarisation with webCT skills which students will require for those aspects of the course which are offered on-line. Face-to-face sessions include formal presentations by Edge Hill tutors and occasional guest lectures. Practical workshops are offered, for example, on aspects of research design and analysis of linguistic data, and students have opportunities for group discussions both face-to-face and on-line. Structured individual supervision is provided for the proposing and writing of the dissertation.
Who will be teaching me?
This Master's degree is taught and assessed by Edge Hill staff, who have substantial teaching and research experience across the field of English language studies, including historical and contemporary phonology, discourse analysis and educational linguistics.
How will I be assessed?
Continuous assessment operates throughout semesters one to three, with varied assessment tasks relating to the content of taught modules. Students propose and refine their dissertation topics in semester three, for completion in semester four.