Linguistics and Applied Linguistics

Overview

Linguistics

The Linguistics and Applied Linguistics MA program at York University centers on two interrelated areas, sociolinguistics and language contact:

• Sociolinguistics and language contact are linked through the study of language variation and change, particularly the role of social groups in initiating and propagating changes.
• Language contact and sociolinguistics also share an interest in the social and political relationships between groups of different linguistic backgrounds and in the manipulation of language to signal social relationships, identities and attitudes.

Applied Linguistics

The applied linguistics field covers topics related to language in society and second and foreign language education:

• These are broadly defined to include language pedagogy, issues of culture and identity, applied sociolinguistics, narrative inquiry, literacy and multilliteracies, second language acquisition, bilingualism, discourse analysis, communicative competence and language contact studies.
• Language policy and planning is an emerging area of expertise in the applied field, and critical applied linguistics or critical ESL/EFL pedagogies are areas of particular strength in the program. Issues related to English for Academic Purposes (EAP) are reflected in several faculty research agendas, as well as in various graduate courses.
• The program also welcomes those with an interest in teaching additional languages other than English.