PhD Applied Linguistics at University of Essex

Programme overview

PhD Applied Linguistics offers supervision in second language acquisition and learning, with expertise in second language syntax, explicit and implicit knowledge and learning, vocabulary learning and use, individual differences, language testing, figurative language and discourse processing.

Department: School of Language, Literature, and Media (Department of Language and Linguistics) | Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time (part-time also available) | Intake: January 2027 | Study mode: full-time; part-time | Location: Colchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Two compulsory non-credit modules (Language and Linguistics: Research; Professional Development for Research Students), supervised research with six-monthly progress checks by a supervisory panel, and a thesis of up to 80,000 words.

Career pathways

Former students work in higher education worldwide as teachers and academic researchers; others have gone into publishing, social work, administration and retail.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A good Masters degree or equivalent in a related subject, and a well-developed research proposal. Applicants may be required to attend an interview (in person or online), and acceptance is subject to research expertise in the department. English language (international applicants): IELTS 7.0 with 6.0 in writing and a minimum of 5.5 in the remaining components.

Domestic applicants: GBP 5,238 a year. Fee stated per year; fees increase for each academic year of study. Academic year not labelled. Source

International applicants: GBP 20,625 a year. Fee stated per year; fees increase for each academic year of study. Academic year not labelled. Source

Intake: January 2027

Duration: 3 to 4 years full-time (part-time also available)

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