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.