MSc Applied Linguistics and TESOL
- MSc
Overview
The University of Bristol is ranked in the top 50 worldwide for Education and Training (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026). Our MSc in Applied Linguistics and TESOL is a flexible, research-informed programme designed for both novice teachers and experienced TESOL and applied linguistics professionals, including educational administrators, curriculum and materials developers, assessment specialists, policymakers, and those intending to progress to doctoral study in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, Sociolinguistics, or Language Policy.
Teaching is delivered by experienced teacher educators and internationally recognised researchers, ensuring that professional practice is firmly underpinned by current research, policy, and debate in the field.
The core curriculum provides a grounding in second language acquisition, language pedagogy, curriculum design, language in society, and research methods in language education. Building on this foundation, students have the opportunity to choose from a range of optional units to pursue one of three specialist pathways: Assessment and Evaluation, Bilingual Education, or Digital Education. Students who do not wish to specialise, remain on the core pathway.
By joining our Language and Literacies in Education network, students gain access to a research-active departmental culture, with regular seminars, visiting speakers, and opportunities to engage with scholars and practitioners in related fields.
Eligible students also have the opportunity to complete the internationally recognised Cambridge English CELTA qualification (subject to entry criteria and an additional fee). This provides a strong professional credential that complements the academic depth of the degree.
Programme structure
Visit our programme catalogue for full details of the structure and unit content for our MSc in Applied Linguistics and TESOL.
Entry requirements
You will typically need a strong second-class honours degree (55% or higher) or an international equivalent in any subject.
If your achieved grade is lower than our entry requirements, your application may be more likely to receive an offer if you have additional qualifications. If you have additional qualifications, please include your CV (curriculum vitae / résumé) when you apply, showing:
- a postgraduate qualification in any discipline.
See international equivalent qualifications on the International Office website.
Read the programme admissions statement for important information on entry requirements, the application process and supporting documents required.
If English is not your first language, you will need to reach the requirements outlined in our profile level B.
Further information about English language requirements and profile levels.
Fees and funding
- Home: full-time
- £12,700 per year
- Home: part-time (three years)
- £4,233 per year
- Home: part-time (two years)
- £6,350 per year
- Overseas: full-time
- £29,300 per year
Fees are subject to an annual review. For programmes that last longer than one year, please budget for up to an 8% increase in fees each year.
More about tuition fees, living costs and financial support.
Alumni discount
University of Bristol students and graduates can benefit from a 25% reduction in tuition fees for postgraduate study. Check your eligibility for an alumni discount.
Funding and scholarships
Further information on funding for prospective UK and international postgraduate students.
Career prospects
Our UK and international graduates find employment in public and private sectors globally, with many leveraging their postgraduate degrees to advance in academia, policy, or specialist education roles.
Our graduates pursue careers in:
- English language teaching - many work as English language teachers in schools, universities, and language institutes worldwide.
- Teacher training and development - some progress to training new TESOL teachers or curriculum design for language programmes.
- Education management - graduates may move into leadership roles within language schools or international education organisations.
- Policy and research - opportunities exist in government education departments, NGOs, and international development projects focusing on language education.
We offer a broad range of support and links to partner organisations, helping you prepare for an exciting future career - whether in the UK or overseas. You will have access to our Careers ServiceandProfessional Liaison Network, which provide professional mentoring, networking events and advice about the education sector.
Contact us
- Contact
- Enquiries Team
- Phone
- +44 (0) 117 394 1649
- choosebristol-pg@bristol.ac.uk
- Faculties
- Schools