University of Tromsø

What you'll study

This programme combines theoretical and empirical approaches to how English and other languages are acquired and used in multilingual settings. You will study core topics such as second language acquisition, bilingualism and multilingualism, language contact, and the sociolinguistics of migration and minority languages. Methodological training covers qualitative and quantitative approaches including experimental psycholinguistics, corpus linguistics, classroom-based research, and mixed-methods fieldwork.

Typical modules and course themes include:

• Theories of second language acquisition – cognitive, interactional and usage-based perspectives on learning.
• Bilingualism and multilingualism – language dominance, code-switching, and developmental bilingualism.
• Language in society – language policy, language rights, and multilingual education.
• Phonetics and phonology for language learners – pronunciation acquisition and perception.
• Language assessment and testing – designing and evaluating tests for English proficiency.
• Research methods – experimental design, statistical analysis, corpus methods and qualitative approaches.
• Electives and specialised seminars – topics such as task-based language teaching, digital corpora, or heritage language maintenance.

The programme culminates in an independently supervised master's thesis, in which students design and carry out an original research project. Students often combine coursework with small-scale empirical studies, classroom practicum or collaboration with local schools and community language initiatives.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification in English, linguistics, education, applied linguistics or a closely related discipline. The degree should normally include coursework in language study; applicants with substantial professional experience in language teaching or language assessment may also be considered.

Other typical requirements include:

• Evidence of academic proficiency in English. International applicants are usually required to demonstrate English language ability through recognised tests or comparable documentation.
• Transcripts showing completed undergraduate study and a record of academic performance.
• A personal statement outlining research interests and motivation for the programme, and how previous study or experience prepares the applicant for advanced work in language acquisition and multilingualism.
• References from academic or professional referees who can comment on the applicant's suitability for postgraduate study.

Admission is competitive and evaluated on academic merit, fit with available supervision, and the applicant's potential to complete an independent research project.

Career prospects

Graduates from this master's programme move into a range of roles across education, research and language-related professions. Typical career pathways include:

• English language teaching and teacher education, including curriculum development and materials design.
• Language assessment and test development for educational institutions and certification bodies.
• Educational policy, advising on multilingual education, integration and language-in-education planning.
• Research positions or further doctoral study in linguistics, applied linguistics, education or cognitive science.
• Roles in NGOs, government agencies and international organisations that work with migrant and minority language communities.
• Language technology and publishing, including corpus consultancy and language resources development.

The programme’s emphasis on research methods and thesis work also makes it a strong preparation for PhD programmes and research careers in universities and research institutes.

Why study at University of Tromsø

The University of Tromsø (The Arctic University of Norway) offers a distinctive setting for studying multilingualism and language acquisition because of its Arctic and circumpolar context, where minority languages and multilingual communities are part of everyday life. The university has active research groups in second language acquisition, sociolinguistics and language documentation, and provides opportunities to work on topics related to small languages, indigenous Sámi languages and migration-related multilingualism.

Students benefit from close supervision, small seminars, and access to laboratory facilities and corpus resources. The interdisciplinary environment—linking linguistics with education, psychology and social sciences—supports applied and theoretically informed projects. The programme attracts international students and collaborates with local schools and community projects, offering practical research and outreach opportunities alongside academic training.