Applied Linguistics postgraduate research

The Department of Applied Linguistics at Reading has a thriving PhD and MPhil programme, and is able to offer supervision to doctoral students in most areas of applied linguistics. To find out about the research interests of our staff, see the research pages.

Full-time registration

Students normally enrol for research degrees in October, because this is when the campus-based Doctoral Training Programme begins. Entry at other times of the year is possible but not encouraged.

A full-time PhD degree for successful applicants with the appropriate background normally takes three years of study. A full-time MPhil degree by research normally takes two years of study. In some cases, a four-year programme is recommended: an MA course followed by three years of PhD research.

During the first year of a research degree, students are expected to follow the campus-based Doctoral Training Programme, in addition to regular discussions on their specialist topic with their supervisor. Students will also be entitled to attend the complementary courses provided by the Graduate School for Arts and Humanities. They will be invited to attend its social events and to contribute to discussions on policy for postgraduate research studies.

Options for part-time registration and working away from the University

If students are unable to commit themselves to three years' full-time study for a PhD, then the Department may consider applicants who wish to study part-time for some or all of the period. Part-time students would still normally be expected to complete the campus-based Doctoral Training Programme during the first year.

Whether studying full- or part-time, applicants with proven ability to work independently might be allowed to spend much of their first year working away from Reading. However, we need to be assured that the applicant has sufficient potential to work as an independent researcher, at the required standard. Attendance at Reading during the first year for training and close supervision is normally required.

If you are interested in part-time study or study away from the University, you should discuss this with the Department, before application.

Entry requirements

To be accepted onto a research degree programme, you normally need a good first degree (BA or BSc), but people with other qualifications may be accepted. See the University's Postgraduate Prospectus for general details of the application procedure, as well as for details of fees and information about the university and surrounding area. To make an application, follow the link at the top of the right hand column on this page. Applications to this Department should be accompanied by an outline of proposed research of 1000-2000 words.

For information about how to write a research proposal to accompany your application, read the Guidelines document (this is a PDF document).

English language requirement

As you will understand, doctoral studies require a very high level of written and spoken language. Students who have not gained a degree from a university in an English-speaking country must provide evidence of their level of English. The requirement is IELTS 7 (in all four skill areas) or TOEFL 600 (Computer-based 250) and Test of Written English (TWE) 5.