University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This master’s combines core TESOL practice with applied linguistics and intercultural theory. You will take taught modules that typically cover:

• Second Language Acquisition — key theoretical perspectives on how additional languages are learned and implications for classroom practice.
• TESOL Methodology — planning lessons, classroom management, communicative approaches, and task-based learning.
• Materials Design and Assessment — creating, adapting and evaluating teaching materials and approaches to formative and summative assessment.
• Intercultural Communication — theories of culture, identity and interaction, and their relevance to language teaching in diverse classrooms and international contexts.
• Research Methods for Applied Linguistics — qualitative and quantitative methods, small-scale classroom research and ethics in language research.
• Optional modules — these may include topics such as corpus-informed teaching, digital literacies in language education, language policy or pronunciation teaching, depending on availability.

The programme normally culminates in a substantial independent research project or dissertation where you apply research methods to a question in TESOL or intercultural communication. Many students also have the opportunity to take a supervised teaching practice or observation component, linking theory and research to real classroom experience.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK second-class upper degree (2:1) or an international equivalent, typically in English, linguistics, modern languages, education or a related discipline. Applicants with a lower-class undergraduate degree plus relevant professional experience, such as classroom teaching or language tutoring, are considered on an individual basis.

International applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English. Typical evidence is an accepted English language qualification at a level that demonstrates readiness for postgraduate study (for example, an overall IELTS score around 6.5 with no sub-skill below 6.0, or an accepted equivalent). The university also considers alternative evidence of language ability, such as prior study in English or professional experience.

Other requirements may include a CV, a personal statement outlining relevant experience and study goals, and references. Candidates proposing research projects that require placements should confirm the feasibility of supervised teaching or observation in their location before application.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a range of roles in education, international organisations and the private sector. Common career paths include:

• Teaching English as a foreign or second language (EFL/ESL) in schools, colleges, language institutes and higher education.
• Teacher training and professional development roles, including course coordinator or teacher trainer positions.
• Material and curriculum development for publishers, educational technology companies and language schools.
• Assessment and testing roles, and work with examination boards or language testing organisations.
• Educational management, international student support, and intercultural liaison roles in universities, NGOs and multinational companies.
• Further academic research leading to doctoral study in applied linguistics, TESOL or intercultural communication.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde is known for applied, career-focused postgraduate provision with strong links to local and international education providers. The programme draws on staff expertise in applied linguistics, language pedagogy and intercultural studies, and offers access to the university’s language resources, specialist teaching facilities and research support.

Students benefit from a practical emphasis that combines classroom-based theory with opportunities for observed teaching, small-scale classroom research and professional networking. The university’s location and partnerships make it straightforward to explore placement options and to engage with Scotland’s diverse language and education landscape.

Overall, the programme aims to equip graduates with research-informed teaching skills, intercultural awareness and the professional competencies needed to work with language learners in a wide range of contexts worldwide.