Programme structure and duration

The MA in Applied Linguistics is a 90 ECTS programme and lasts three semesters for full-time students. A semester consists of 14 weeks of classes, followed by two reading weeks (for exam preparation) and two weeks of examinations. The spring semester starts mid-February (calendar week 8) and the autumn semester mid-September (calendar week 38). Students begin their studies in the spring semester. In order to be admitted to the programme, you need to have a Bachelor’s degree, to pass a professional aptitude test and, in certain cases, to pass a language test.

The MA in Applied Linguistics comprises a theory-based core curriculum and a profession-specific curriculum for each of the three specialisations (Professional Translation, Conference Interpreting or Organisational Communication).

Just over one third of the 90 ECTS credits are awarded for modules related to theoretical principles and the Master’s thesis, while nearly two thirds are allocated to modules focussing on practical skills and methods. In these practice-based modules, students are able to apply the skills they have acquired and consolidate their knowledge.

Part-time study

You can choose whether you want to complete the MA in Applied Linguistics as a full-time or part-time student. If you study full-time, the programme is designed to last three semesters. If you study part-time, it lasts between four and six semesters. Candidates who wish to study part-time must notify the MA academic office in writing before they begin the programme. Under certain conditions, it is possible to change from full-time to part-time mode during your studies; to do this, you are also required to submit a request in writing to the MA academic office. 

Leave of absence

During your studies, you can take leave of absence for a minimum of one semester. Unless clear grounds are given, the maximum leave of absence is two semesters; on request, two additional semesters’ leave of absence can be granted provided that sufficient grounds are given.