Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics

Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics

College of Languages and Translation

Welcome to the comprehensive overview of the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program. This page is organized into several main sections to provide a complete understanding of the program. The Program Specification section offers detailed information about the program's structure, delivery methods, and professional relevance. The Mission, Goals, and Program Learning Outcomes (MAAL) section outlines the program's foundational purpose, its objectives, and the specific skills and knowledge that students are expected to acquire. The Study Plan section details the academic structure, including course progression, required and elective courses, and practical components designed to prepare students for careers in applied linguistics. Additionally, links to Graduate Programs Conditions and Sample Graduation Projects are provided to give further insights into program requirements and examples of student achievements. This organized layout ensures that prospective students and stakeholders have all the necessary information to understand the program's offerings and expectations.

On October 14, 2024, the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics Program Specification was officially approved by both the Department and College Councils. To learn more about the program, please click on the link above to access the PDF version of the specification, which provides detailed information under the following sections:

A. Program Identification and General Information

This section provides essential details about the structure, delivery, and professional relevance of the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program.

The Program's Main Location is at the Postgraduate Studies Building, King Abdullah Road, Abha, King Khalid University, with no additional branches offering the program. The System of Study is based solely on coursework, delivered On Campus, ensuring a robust and interactive learning environment.

The program benefits from a Partnership with Talent Development Schools (Tatwear Almawheba Schools), enhancing practical exposure and collaboration opportunities.

Graduates are prepared for a range of Professions such as language instruction, curriculum development, language assessment, university lecturing, discourse analysis, and language policy advising. These roles align with various Occupational Sectors, including educational institutions, language institutes, government agencies, and corporate training departments.

The program offers a singular Track/Pathway comprising 39 credit hours focused on coursework and a research project, equipping students for academic and professional roles such as language instructors, curriculum developers, and university lecturers.

The program awards a Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics upon completion of 39 total credit hours, with no intermediate exit points or additional degrees offered.

B. Mission, Goals, and Program Learning Outcomes

This section outlines the foundational purpose and overarching aspirations of the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program, focusing on its mission, goals, and the expected outcomes for students.

The Program Mission emphasizes the development of specialized expertise in language analysis, teaching, and policy. It highlights the program's commitment to equipping students with the skills to tackle both global and local linguistic challenges, with a strong focus on social responsibility, sustainable development, and impactful contributions to diverse linguistic environments.

The Program Goals define the specific objectives of the program, which include deepening students' understanding of linguistic concepts, fostering advanced research skills, and preparing graduates to address contemporary issues in language education, policy, and assessment. The program also aims to develop leadership qualities and instill ethical standards, ensuring graduates contribute positively to academic, professional, and community settings.

The Program Learning Outcomes are structured across three domains—Knowledge and Understanding, Skills, and Values, Autonomy, and Responsibility. These outcomes ensure that students gain a comprehensive grasp of applied linguistics theories and their applications, develop practical skills in curriculum design, research, and assessment, and uphold professional integrity while contributing to the field through lifelong learning and leadership. Together, these elements form a cohesive framework for producing well-rounded, capable professionals in applied linguistics.

C. Curriculum

This section provides a detailed breakdown of the program's curriculum structure and components, outlining how the 39 credit hours are distributed across various required and elective courses. The Curriculum Structure highlights the balance between required and elective courses, as well as any graduation projects, field experience, or theses that may be part of the program. Additionally, it includes a table summarizing the percentage allocation of credits across these categories.

The Program Courses subsection lists all the courses in the program, categorized by level. It specifies course codes, titles, whether the course is required or elective, prerequisites, credit hours, and the type of requirements (institution, college, or program-specific). Separate tables are provided for any additional levels or tracks, if applicable.

The Course Specifications subsection provides hyperlinks to detailed course descriptions, formatted according to the NCAAA template, ensuring that students and stakeholders have access to comprehensive information about each course.

The Program Learning Outcomes Mapping Matrix aligns each course with the desired performance levels for program learning outcomes (Introduced, Practiced, Mastered) across areas of knowledge, skills, and values, autonomy, and responsibility. This ensures that all learning outcomes are integrated into the curriculum.

The Teaching and Learning Strategies subsection explains the approaches used to achieve program learning outcomes, including lectures, case studies, research projects, group work, and computer-assisted tools. These strategies are designed to encourage critical thinking, practical application, and active engagement with the content.

Finally, the Assessment Methods for Program Learning Outcomes outlines the direct and indirect methods used to evaluate the achievement of program learning outcomes. Direct methods include exams, research projects, and presentations, while indirect methods such as surveys and employer feedback provide a broader perspective on program effectiveness.

Sections D-H (Click to Expand)

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D. Thesis and Its Requirements (if any)

This section addresses the requirements and procedures for registering, supervising, and defending a thesis, should it be a part of the program. However, for the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program, a thesis is Not Applicable. It indicates that no formal processes for thesis registration, scientific supervision, or thesis defense/examination are required as part of this program.

E. Faculty and Administrative Staff

This section provides an overview of the teaching and administrative staff needed to deliver the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program effectively. It specifies the academic ranks, specialties, and any special requirements or skills necessary for the faculty.

The table outlines the number of required faculty members at each academic rank, including professors, associate professors, and assistant professors, with expertise in areas such as TESOL, linguistics, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis, computer-assisted language learning (CALL), and language planning. Additionally, the program requires technical staff, laboratory assistants, and administrative/support staff to support the program's operational and academic needs. The breakdown of required numbers for male (M), female (F), and total (T) staff ensures equitable representation and adequate coverage across roles.

F. Learning Resources, Facilities, and Equipment

This section details the essential resources, facilities, and safety measures required to support the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program.

  1. Learning Resources:
    The program relies on a variety of learning resources to ensure students have access to high-quality materials, including textbooks, academic references, journals, academic databases, e-learning platforms, and web-based resources. Specialized tools such as software for data analysis, language learning tools, and research methodology resources are also integral to the program.
  2. Facilities and Equipment:
    To provide a conducive learning environment, the program requires access to well-equipped library facilities, computer and language laboratories, classrooms, e-learning and virtual classrooms, and conference rooms. These facilities support both academic learning and practical applications.
  3. Procedures to Ensure a Healthy and Safe Learning Environment:
    The program is committed to maintaining a safe and supportive environment through health and safety policies, regular facility inspections, emergency procedures and training, and sanitation protocols. Additional measures include accessibility and ergonomic considerations, mental health support services, first aid availability, and ensuring proper ventilation and air quality in all learning spaces.

G. Program Quality Assurance

This section outlines the strategies, processes, and measures implemented to ensure and enhance the quality of the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program.

  1. Program Quality Assurance System:
    A comprehensive system is in place to monitor and improve the program's quality. A link to the detailed Quality Assurance System (QAS) manual is provided, offering insights into the mechanisms supporting continuous improvement.
  2. Program Quality Monitoring Procedures:
    Various procedures are employed to regularly monitor the program's quality, such as course evaluations by students, faculty performance reviews, external feedback from examiners and alumni, benchmarking against similar programs, and adherence to NCAAA accreditation standards.
  3. Procedures to Monitor Quality of Courses Taught by Other Departments:
    Since all courses are taught by the English Department faculty, the program ensures consistency and quality directly within the department.
  4. Consistency Between Male and Female Sections:
    The program operates as a co-educational initiative, with both male and female students attending the same classes and being taught by faculty members of both genders. To maintain consistency, standardized curricula, unified teaching resources, shared learning platforms, and equal access to academic support are implemented.
  5. Assessment Plan for Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs):
    The program uses direct methods (e.g., exams, projects, presentations) and indirect methods (e.g., surveys, alumni feedback) to assess learning outcomes. CLOs are mapped to PLOs, ensuring that course-level achievements align with broader program goals.
  6. Program Evaluation Matrix:
    Evaluation areas such as teaching effectiveness, resource availability, and leadership are systematically reviewed through surveys, interviews, and performance data, with evaluations conducted annually to ensure continuous improvement.
  7. Program KPIs:
    The program tracks specific Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) such as student satisfaction, dropout rates, employer evaluations, faculty research output, and the ratio of students to faculty. These KPIs are measured regularly using data analysis, surveys, and stakeholder feedback to assess and enhance program performance.

H. Student Admission and Support

This section outlines the admission requirements and the support systems available to students in the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program, ensuring they are well-equipped to succeed academically, professionally, and personally.

  1. Student Admission Requirements:
    Applicants must meet the requirements outlined in the Unified Regulations for Postgraduate Studies in Saudi Universities. Additional criteria include holding a B.A. in a language field with a minimum GPA of 3.75 out of 5, achieving specific scores on standardized tests like TOEFL (IBT 79), IELTS (6.0), STEP (97), or the Post-Graduate General Aptitude Test (PGAT, minimum 60%). The Department and College Councils may impose additional conditions if necessary.
  2. Guidance and Orientation Programs for New Students:
    Specialized guidance and orientation programs address the unique academic and professional needs of students entering the program. These include academic orientation sessions, personalized academic advising, research preparation workshops, access to specialized linguistic tools, cultural transition support, and mentorship programs.
  3. Student Counseling Services:
    Tailored counseling services support students academically, professionally, psychologically, and socially. These services include advanced research methodology workshops, individualized learning plans, professional networking events, stress management workshops, and cross-cultural integration support for international students.
  4. Special Support for Low Achievers, Disabled, and Talented Students:
    • Low Achievers: Individualized learning plans, regular academic monitoring, and specialized workshops help improve academic performance.
    • Students with Disabilities: Accessible learning resources, customized accommodation plans, and emotional support services ensure inclusivity.
    • Talented Students: Advanced research opportunities, leadership roles, and presentation opportunities foster growth and prepare students for academic or professional leadership roles.

This comprehensive framework ensures that all students, regardless of their backgrounds or challenges, are provided with the tools and support necessary to excel in the program.

Visitors to this page will find comprehensive information about the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program, including its mission, goals, and learning outcomes. The Mission Statement outlines the program's dedication to fostering expertise in language analysis, teaching, and policy development, with a focus on addressing linguistic challenges in a socially responsible and sustainable manner.

The Program Goals highlight the program's commitment to providing students with a deep understanding of linguistic concepts, research methodologies, and modern teaching practices, while emphasizing leadership, ethical responsibility, and the ability to solve real-world language-related issues.

The Program Learning Outcomes are divided into three key areas—Knowledge and Understanding, Skills, and Values. These outcomes describe the advanced knowledge students will gain, the skills they will develop in areas like curriculum design and research, and the values they will embody, such as integrity, lifelong learning, and leadership in applied linguistics.

Additionally, the Admission Terms, Conditions, and Requirements provide clear criteria for prospective students, including academic qualifications and standardized test scores needed for entry into the program.

The page serves as an authoritative guide for prospective students and stakeholders, offering insight into the program's purpose, structure, and expectations, last reviewed on January 13, 2025 to ensure up-to-date information.

Visitors to this page will find an in-depth overview of the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program, including its academic structure, learning progression, and focus areas. The page provides a clear description of how the program is designed to build foundational knowledge in applied linguistics, followed by advanced research and practical application skills.

The curriculum is structured to offer both required and elective courses, allowing students to explore specialized areas of interest while meeting the program's core requirements. The page highlights the practical components of the program, such as teaching experiences, research training, and a final graduation project, which integrates theoretical knowledge with real-world application.

Additionally, a detailed table organizes the courses by academic level, specifying whether they are required or elective, their credit hours, prerequisites, and their alignment with program requirements. Visitors can access links to course documents for further details.

This page is an essential resource for understanding the program's comprehensive approach to equipping students with the expertise needed for careers in education, research, policy-making, and other professional sectors related to applied linguistics. Links to prior study plans are also available for reference.

In conclusion, the Master of Arts in Applied Linguistics program at King Khalid University stands out for its robust curriculum, clear learning outcomes, and comprehensive support systems. Through a blend of coursework, research, and hands-on experience, students gain the linguistic expertise and professional competencies needed to excel in language teaching, policy, and related fields. Each section of this page—from Program Specification to Student Admission and Support—ensures that you have a complete picture of the program's objectives, structure, and quality assurance measures. Whether you are exploring admission, preparing for coursework, or seeking program-related resources, the information provided here underscores the university's commitment to academic excellence and student success.