| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2023-10-02 | 2023-05-01 |
| 2024-01-08 | 2023-08-01 |
| 2024-04-22 | 2023-11-01 |
| 2023-09-01 | - |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
| 2025-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MA in Language Policy and Planning at Bangor University equips students with the knowledge and skills to formulate effective strategies for promoting linguistic equality and language planning in diverse contexts. The program combines theory and practice, offering a multidisciplinary approach that draws on expertise from various academic disciplines. Graduates are prepared for careers in the public, private, and third sectors, as well as for further study at the doctoral level.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Objective:
- To equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to formulate effective strategies and systems forpromoting linguistic equality and language planning in diverse contexts.
- To provide a comprehensive understanding of theoretical and practical aspects of language planning, addressing the needs of individuals, communities, and organizations.
- To prepare graduates for various roles in the public, private, and third sectors, as well as for further study at the doctoral level.
Description:
The MA in Language Policy and Planning offers a unique and valuable opportunity to gain insights into this increasingly important field. The program draws on expertise from various Bangor University schools, including Social Sciences, Linguistics, Law, Business, Welsh, and Health Sciences. This multidisciplinary approach provides students with a solid foundation in the theoretical principles of language planning while equipping them with the practical skills and knowledge needed to implement successful language planning initiatives.
Key Features:
- Combines theory and practice: Provides a strong grounding in the theoretical underpinnings of language planning and equips students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary to implement language planning effectively.
- Multidisciplinary approach: Draws on expertise from various academic disciplines, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex issues involved in language planning.
- Flexible study options: Offered as an MA (180 credits), a postgraduate Diploma (120 credits), and a postgraduate Certificate (60 credits), allowing students to choose a study path that aligns with their goals and needs.
- Opportunity for further specialization: Students can specialize in areas such as bilingualism, language rights, or public sector management through a range of optional modules.
- Dissertation option: The Master's program offers a dissertation module, allowing students to delve deeper into a specific topic of interest and develop advanced research skills.
Outline:
Program Structure & Content:
The MA in Language Policy and Planning offers a flexible structure, allowing students to tailor their studies to their individual interests and career aspirations. The program consists of core modules, optional modules, and a dissertation (for MA students only).
Core Modules (40 credits total):
- The Research Process
- OR
- Research Methods in Education (30 credits) + Quantitative Methods (10 credits)
- Language Planning
Optional Modules (20 credits each):
- Aspects of Bilingualism
- Work Based Learning
- History of the Welsh Language
- Linguistic Rights
- Diversity and Human Rights
- Public Sector Management
- Law & Devolution in Wales & Europe
- Current Issues in Bilingualism
Dissertation Module (60 credits for MA students):
Allows students to independently research a specific topic related to language planning under the supervision of an academic tutor.
Course Schedule:
The program typically follows a two-semester academic year. Each semester includes lectures, seminars, and tutorials delivered by experienced academic staff and guest speakers. In addition, students have access to various resources and facilities, including the University library, computer labs, and language learning resources.
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module but may include:
- Essays
- Research reports
- Presentations
- Group projects
- Examinations
- Dissertations Assessment criteria are designed to evaluate students' understanding of key concepts, their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations, and their critical thinking and analytical skills.
Teaching:
Teaching Methods:
The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Interactive lectures
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Guest lectures
- Workshops
- Independent research
- Dissertation supervision Teaching focuses on fostering active learning, encouraging students to engage with theoretical concepts and develop critical thinking skills through discussions, presentations, and group projects.
Faculty:
The MA in Language Policy and Planning is taught by a team of experienced academics from various departments at Bangor University, including:
- School of History, Law, and Social Sciences
- School of Education
- Center for the Study of Welsh Language and Culture
- Department of Linguistics Faculty members have extensive expertise in various areas related to language planning, including bilingualism, language policy, education, linguistics, law, and social policy. They are actively involved in research and are committed to providing students with high-quality teaching and support.
Careers:
The MA in Language Policy and Planning prepares graduates for a diverse range of career opportunities. The program equips graduates with the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in various roles, including:
- Language officer
- Policy development officer
- Public sector manager
- Marketing executive
- Bilingual educator
- Community language project manager
- Researcher Graduates of the program are also well-positioned to pursue further studies at the doctoral level in the field of language policy and planning. The program provides a strong foundation for academic research and opens doors for advanced study opportunities.
