13. The MAAL Qualification
13.1 Is this a TESOL degree?
13.2 Will this degree make me more employable?
13.3 Does it provide teaching accreditation?
13.4 Is there a practical component to the degree?
13.5 Will the MA in Applied Linguistics allow me to pursue PhD research?
13.1: Is this a Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) degree?
No it isn't. Although there are strong connections between TESOL and applied linguistics, this degree does not focus on teaching techniques and pedagogy. For these reasons you could not, for instance, expect to get advanced standing in the MAAL for TESOL units taken elsewhere. However, the MAAL does include a number of units that address second language acquisition issues, including LING 462, LING 465, LING 451 and EDLA 423.
13.2 Will this degree make me more employable?
It certainly should. An MA in Applied Linguistics may be helpful in finding employment in a number of areas including TESOL, language planning, etc. It depends on your interests and the specific institutions. Many of our graduates are actively involved in ESL teaching, and many have found this degree directly beneficial to them in that job market.
13.3 Does it provide teaching accreditation?
No, this degree does not provide teaching accreditation in most countries. However, it may be accepted in many ESL or EFL situations as a qualification. Please check with your institution or accrediting agency.
13.4 Is there a practical component to the degree?
No, there is no practicum. This degree does not focus on pedagogy, and there is no in-class placement program.
13.5 Will the MA in Applied Linguistics allow me to pursue PhD research?
See FAQ Section 5.3.