The Graduate Certificate in Applied Linguistics program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to understand the processes of language learning and development, to develop theoretically motivated language teaching curricula, and to improve their effectiveness as teachers of English as a second or foreign language, or more generally to further their understanding of the way in which language affects and is affected by the social and cultural environment. The program combines theoretical perspectives with empirical studies and practical applications, and provides the opportunity for practical experience of classroom and individual teaching.

The Graduate Certificate of Applied Linguistics may be taken in the following specialisations or as a non-specialised award:

• TESL/TEFL
• Translation Studies (not available to new students in 2010)

The NSW Department of Education and Training has approved the award with the TESL/TEFL specialisation for English as a Second Language (ESL) teaching in NSW government schools by candidates with relevant educational qualifications. The sequence of courses relating to the Translation Studies specialisation is not accredited by NAATI.

Why study with us?
The University of Newcastle has now an established reputation, nationally and internationally, as a provider of very high-quality postgraduate coursework programs in Applied Linguistics. These programs have now been in operation for over eight years, with a continuously increasing number of participating students. Our students report very high levels of satisfaction with both the Applied Linguistics Program itself and the employment opportunities that the Award offers upon graduation. International students find Newcastle a very safe and friendly environment for their University studies.

Career Opportunities
Teaching English as a second Language; research in applied linguistics.

Admission Requirements
Admission to the Applied Linguistics program requires prior completion of a Bachelor degree in a related course area or equivalent recognised prior learning. ("Related course areas" include Education, English, Languages, Linguistics, Psychology, and Speech Pathology.)

Admission to this program is available to Australian students, residents and international students.

Assumed Knowledge
Bachelor degree in a related course area or equivalent recognised prior learning. ("Related course areas" include Education, English, Languages, Linguistics, Psychology, and Speech Pathology.)

Credit Transfer
Students who have completed relevant studies may apply for up to 20 units of credit.

Practical Experience
EDUC6024 TESOL Practicum (a core requirement for the TESL/TEFL specialisation) involves up to 200 hours of placement in an appropriate educational setting (school, TAFE, ELICOS, etc.)

Professional Accreditation
The NSW Department of Education and Training has approved the award with the TESL/TEFL specialisation for English as a second Language (ESL) by candidates with relevant educational qualifications.

International Students
International students must comply with the University of Newcastle's English language proficiency requirements. All International Students enrolled in the program will be provided with an orientation to familiarise them with the rules, expectations, facilities and services offered by the University.

Special Needs
Students with disabilities who require reasonable adjustments to undertake their program should contact the Disability Support Service before semester or early in the semester. Some adjustments need up to 4 weeks lead time to organise, so it is imperative that early contact is made. The Disability Support Service and relevant Faculty and School officers will work together to ensure reasonably adjustments are provided in a timely manner.

Please note: All students must fulfil the inherent requirements of the programs and courses they are undertaking. While reasonable adjustments can be made, these adjustments cannot compromise academic integrity. It is the student's responsibility to check all the requirements of courses, and consider the effects of any medical condition or disability on their ability to complete course requirements.

Additional Information
All students can access additional learning development mechanisms provided by the Centre for Teaching and Learning

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can draw on the assistance and support provided by the Indigenous Student Support and Development service through the Wollotuka Institute.

Requirements and Structure
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Linguistics consists of 40 units. Most courses are available by distance mode for external students.
This program can be completed over one semester full-time for part-time equivalent, however please be aware that not all courses may be offered in any one semester.

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