The School of Linguistics and Applied Language Studies has a world class reputation for its teaching and research in the fields of Applied Linguistics, Linguistics, and TESOL. The School incorporates the Deaf Studies Research Unit and the English Language Institute, and offers a range of academic and professional Writing Courses. The Language in the Workplace project is part of the School.
Language Teaching
Explore how second or additional languages are learnt and study different approaches for successful language teaching.
Find out moreAvailable subjects
- Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL)
- New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Studies
Linguistics
Language is important for almost everything we do, from making friends and influencing people, to asking a smartphone for directions. Learn about the structure of language and explore how people use it. Or study Writing (academic and professional) and improve your academic writing ability.
Find out moreAvailable subjects
- Linguistics
- Modern Language Studies
- Applied Linguistics
- Text Technologies
- Intercultural Communication and Applied Translation
New Zealand Sign Language
Learn to communicate in one of New Zealand's official languages, New Zealand Sign Language, and develop your understanding of Deaf community and culture.
Find out moreAvailable subjects
- New Zealand Sign Language (NZSL) Studies
Academic and professional writing
Enhance your communication skills and learn how to effectively write for academic and professional audiences.
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Name change for Master’s degrees
We are renaming our Master of Arts (180 points) programmes in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, and TESOL. From 2022, they will be called the Master of Linguistics, the Master of Applied Linguistics, and the Master of TESOL. The Master of Arts (180 points) in Second Language Learning and Teaching will no longer be offered.
While the names of these degrees are changing, their content will stay the same.
Where could TESOL take you?
We offer undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate TESOL programmes.
Watch the video
PhD candidate Reuben Sanderson
"The staff have done so much to foster my passion for linguistics and academia in general".
Linguistics student Alisa Panchavinin
"Linguistics covers a lot of ground, which means you can really tailor your Linguistics experience to align with what you’re most interested in".
Professor Meredith Marra
"I’m motivated by the way linguistic skills can help identify barriers and bridges and the role this plays in empowering minority groups and newcomers to NZ".
Will you love linguistics?
Take our fun quiz to find out what you know about languages and the fascinating facts you’re still to discover!