Program Overview
The Postgraduate Certificate in Language Testing is a part-time online program from Lancaster University that equips professionals with a deep understanding of language test design, construction, and evaluation. Through three modules, participants gain practical skills and explore current issues in the field, empowering them to create and evaluate valid and reliable testing procedures in a variety of contexts. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in language testing and evaluation within educational and professional settings.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Postgraduate Certificate in Language Testing is a part-time distance learning program designed for professionals involved in language testing and evaluation at various levels. It aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of language test design, construction, and evaluation, enabling them to create valid and reliable testing procedures and policies in their respective contexts. The program emphasizes practical applications and provides opportunities for participants to base their coursework on real-world issues within their own educational or professional settings. It covers major developments in language testing, reflecting current thinking and best practices in the field. The program is delivered over twelve months and consists of three online modules, offering flexibility for part-time study alongside work and personal commitments. The program is taught by experts from Lancaster University, which has a globally recognized reputation for excellence in language testing.
Outline:
The Postgraduate Certificate in Language Testing program follows a structured curriculum spanning one academic year, with three modules taken sequentially:
Language Test Construction and Evaluation (distance):
This module introduces the fundamentals of language test construction and evaluation, covering basic concepts and principles. It focuses on the assessment of the four macro-language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking), emphasizing the critical evaluation of test items using descriptive statistics. It aims to enhance participants' understanding of the constructs underlying language tests, situate language testing within the broader context of applied linguistics, and familiarize them with current research in second language acquisition.
Issues in Language Testing (distance):
This module explores a range of current issues in the field of language testing, reviewing topics annually to ensure relevance. It aims to help participants explore recent developments in validation research, understand the theoretical underpinnings of these issues, and critically discuss key topics in language testing.
Teaching:
The program utilizes online learning methods, delivered through Lancaster University's virtual learning site. The program is taught by experts in the field of language testing from Lancaster University's Department of Linguistics and English Language, which is highly ranked in national and international linguistics rankings. Faculty members have extensive experience in language testing projects, including national test development projects in various countries and international test development and assessment projects in English and other languages.
Careers:
Graduates from the Postgraduate Certificate in Language Testing program will possess the skills to contribute to test development and research projects in various settings, including schools, colleges, universities, and language testing organizations. They will be equipped to contribute to decision-making regarding language test provision and use in various organizations, such as ministries of education and defense, curriculum development centers, and educational institutions.
Other:
The program is the first year of the highly respected Master's in Language Testing program at Lancaster University. Students who successfully complete the Postgraduate Certificate can seamlessly transfer to the MA program should they wish to pursue further study. Additionally, graduates of the PG Certificate program can rejoin for the second year of the MA program, surrendering their PG Certificate upon completion.
1 year programme Year 1 (60 credits) Home £3,750 International £3,750 Cost per 20 credit Module (2024-25) Home £1,250; International £1,250
