Aims and outcomes

The programme aims to provide students with a comprehensive and critical understanding of the theory and practice of English in educational and professional contexts. The knowledge and skills students acquire in the programme enable them to become innovative and reflective professionals in a range of institutional settings.

After completing the MAESP programme students are able to:

Professional competence

1. demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the principal language systems of English (sound, semantics, discourse and lexico-grammar) and their interrelatedness;

2. show an awareness of contextual variation in English across a range of modes, genres and settings;

3. demonstrate a profound understanding of how English functions in educational and professional contexts and communities;

4. demonstrate a deep understanding of advances in theory, research and practice in their chosen specialism;

5. apply a repertoire of methodologies, approaches and tools to analyse language and communication in settings relevant to their specialism;

6. plan, conduct and report on empirical research into issues and problems relating to the acquisition and use of English for educational and/or professional purposes;

7. show an advanced understanding and appreciation of a wide range of literary and imaginative texts and events;

Strategic thinking

8. work independently and collaboratively to analyse and resolve theoretical issues and practical problems relating to the use of English in their chosen specialism;

9. apply critical and creative thinking skills strategically in educational and workplace contexts; and

Lifelong learning

10. continue to engage in lifelong learning and professional development through inquiry and reflection on professional practices.

Characteristics

There are two possible study outcomes and qualifications, as follows:

1. Postgraduate Diploma in English Studies for the Professions (18 credits): students should complete the 4 Core Subjects (12 credits) and any 2 subjects from the lists of specialism-related Core Subjects.

2a. Master of Arts in English Studies for the Professions (English Language Studies/English Language Teaching/English for the Professions) (30 credits): students should complete the 4 Core Subjects (12 credits); 2 specialism-related Core Subjects (6 credits); and either 4 specialism-specific Electives (12 credits) or the Research Project (6 credits) plus the Associated Research Methods subject (3 credits) and 1 specialism-specific Elective (3 credits).

2b. Master of Arts in English Studies for the Professions (English Language Arts) (30 credits): students should complete the 4 Core Subjects (12 credits); 3 specialism-related Core Subjects (9 credits); and either 3 specialism-specific Electives (9 credits) or the Research Project (6 credits) plus the Associated Research Methods subject (3 credits).