Study how language shapes our world
Learn about the role of language in our lives and communities. Postgraduate Applied Linguistics combines theory and practice to help you build a deep understanding of language, its users, and the social and material conditions that shape communication.
With special emphasis on language education, you’ll develop the ability to critically evaluate research in the field, carry out independent research, and apply your expertise to advise others on language‑related matters. This subject draws on a broad range of theoretical and methodological approaches including education, linguistics, psychology, anthropology, and sociology. This rich, multidisciplinary approach equips you with the tools to explore multilingualism, foreign language learning, and assessing language proficiency.
Develop expertise that’s relevant, practical, and in-demand. Whether you want to advance your career, deepen your understanding of language, or contribute to social change, Postgraduate Applied Linguistics gives you the knowledge, skills, and research experience needed in our interconnected world.
Choose your study path
We offer three postgraduate qualifications which you can major in this subject. Learn through methods designed to cater for different learning styles.
Master of Applied Linguistics
This provides the most comprehensive study as it includes an optional dissertation or thesis along with course work.
Postgraduate Diploma in Applied Linguistics
Longer than a Certificate, a Diploma allows you to do more in-depth study, as it includes coursework and the option of doing a research project.
Postgraduate Certificate in Applied Linguistics
Short than a Postgraduate Diploma, this qualification is an opportunity for specialised professional development and can be a step towards higher study. It includes four courses.
Qualification support and advice
We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.
If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser through our enquiry form.
If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.
For the research portion of your study, you’ll need a supervisor to help guide your research. Your programme coordinator will work with you to find the right person.
Study options
Find out how you can study Postgraduate Applied Linguistics at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Why Wellington
Benefit from more than six decades of expertise in language teaching and research. Our English Language Institute, established in 1961, marked the start of our longstanding leadership in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, and TESOL.
Today, our Linguistics programme is consistently ranked among the world's best. It's recognised as the leading programme in Aotearoa New Zealand and among the strongest in Australasia.
Our School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies also maintains strong industry connections, including partnerships with:
Globally ranked
Our Linguistics subjects are ranked in the top 100 worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2026.
The QS World University Rankings is an annual global publication that gives overall rankings and subject rankings for more than 1,500 universities worldwide.
Future careers
Postgraduate students develop skills in research and project management. Postgraduate Applied Linguistics also equips you with:
- analytical understanding of verbal and nonverbal communication
- excellent observation skills
- active listening skills
- the ability to maintain objectivity.
More career information
Find out more about careers.
The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.
Scholarships
You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.
We have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Postgraduate Applied Linguistics
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This Scholarship was established in 2025 to honour Professor Margaret Hyland who held the role of Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at Victoria University of Wellington from 2018 to 2025.
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The purpose of the award is to assist postgraduate (full-time or part-time) students in the study of a Master’s of Linguistics, Applied Linguistics or TESOL by coursework at Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington. Applicant will be assessed on the basis of academic merit. Relevant prior experience may also be taken into account.
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This scholarship has been established by the School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies.
Scholarships for international students
We are currently offering a NZ$10,000 VUW Postgraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Master’s degree or Postgraduate Diploma programme.
Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.
Other scholarships
We also have postgraduate and doctoral scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.
We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.
Scholarships for Postgraduate Applied Linguistics
-
The purpose of the award is to assist postgraduate (full-time or part-time) students in the study of a Master’s of Linguistics, Applied Linguistics or TESOL by coursework at Te Herenga Waka–Victoria University of Wellington. Applicant will be assessed on the basis of academic merit. Relevant prior experience may also be taken into account.
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This scholarship has been established by the School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies.
Join our postgraduate community
The Postgraduate Students’ Association provides a voice for you on campus and information on studying at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.
Postgraduate Students’ Association
MAI ki Pōneke
MAI ki Pōneke are part of an international network of Māori and Indigenous postgraduate students. They provide advice, support, and information to Indigenous postgraduate students of all levels, as well as those thinking about enrolling.
Academic staff research areas
Oliver Ballance
Senior Lecturer in Applied Linguistics
Julieta Fernandez
Senior Lecturer
Peter Gu
Professor
Robby Nadler
Senior Lecturer (Teaching)
Jonathan Newton
Associate Professor
Corinne Seals
Associate Dean, Research
Anna Siyanova
Head of School
Stephen Skalicky
Senior Lecturer
Get help to manage your finances
We can help you:
- budget your money
- manage your student loan or allowance
- work out your accommodation payment schedule.
If you’re facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.
You may be eligible for government or community support, too.
Apply for a New Zealand study visa
You’ll need to apply for a study visa if you plan to study with us as an international student.
You should apply for your visa after you’ve received your Offer of Place, and before you come to New Zealand.