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PhD in TESOL

Programme Leader:  Dr Irena Kuzborska

The PhD in TESOL is available to be studied in 3 modes: part-time, full-time, and distance learning

In order to apply for a PhD place, we ask that you first submit an application form. We cannot accept a CV or any other documentation in place of a formal application. When you apply for a PhD place, you must submit a research proposal about 1,500 words in length.

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How to Apply

The PhD in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) emphasises state-of-the-art second and foreign language research, and is designed to enhance specialised knowledge through academic study and research.

The programme is suitable for:

  • English as second or foreign language teachers
  • teacher educators
  • professional development administrators
  • curriculum developers
  • materials writers
  • researchers
  • academics

The course emphasises state-of-the-art second and foreign language research. It focuses on practice and aims to help students to achieve a critical understanding of teaching theories and to obtain solid grounding in research methodology appropriate for conducting research projects in their professional contexts.

We are interested in hearing from students doing projects in the following broad research areas:

  • English for academic and professional purposes
  • Reading, writing, speaking in English as a second or foreign language
  • English language teacher cognition and identity
  • English language teacher education
  • English language curriculum development and evaluation
  • English language testing and assessment
  • Oral and written feedback
  • Classroom discourse studies
  • Cross-cultural pragmatics
  • Second language acquisition

Our PhD research students in recent years have come both from the United Kingdom and from many overseas countries. Many of our overseas students have chosen to conduct studies which involve collecting fieldwork data in their home country. Proposals to conduct a study which involves collecting fieldwork data overseas are welcomed.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a good honours degree or a master's degree (MA, MSc or MEd) in a relevant discipline (eg TESOL, Applied Linguistics, ELT, or Education) although candidates with other evidence of ability to succeed at PhD level will also be considered.

If English is not your first language, we do expect you to be able to demonstrate a high level of proficiency.  The minimum requirement for PhD in TESOL is IELTS 7.0 with 6.5 in Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking.  For further information please see English language requirements.

As part of the application process, you will be invited for interview (face-to-face or via Skype). 

You must submit a research proposal; we are unable to consider your application without one. 

Information on the application procedure can be found at the University postgraduate pages.

Apply now for the PhD in TESOL

Apply now for the PhD in TESOL (Distance Learning)