Master's Degree Linguistics Full Time

Master of Applied Linguistics

at Charles Darwin University · Darwin, Northern Territory

CRICOS course code

116332E

CRICOS provider code

00300K

This course is registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students. Verify it yourself at cricos.education.gov.au before paying any fee.

Duration

1.5 years

Tuition (whole course)

A$56,510 total

Per year

A$37,673/yr

Intake

Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul)

About this program

The Master of Applied Linguistics at Charles Darwin University is a 1.5-year postgraduate course designed for those interested in understanding language structure, use, and its role across cultures. This course covers practical and theoretical approaches to linguistics, including areas such as language acquisition, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis, and multilingualism. Students also explore language in education, policy, and communication settings—issues highly relevant in multilingual and Indigenous contexts found in the Northern Territory and throughout Australia.

The course is structured over three semesters, and students undertake units of study that carry specific credit points. Each unit might focus on a specific area—like language teaching, language and technology, or research methods—allowing students to specialise in their areas of interest. The programme typically requires completion of a research project or capstone unit, where students investigate a real-world language problem or complete an analytical study drawing from Australian or international linguistic settings. Hands-on research is encouraged, especially for contexts involving Indigenous languages, which are a significant aspect of language study in the Northern Territory.

Students develop strong analytical and research skills, critical thinking in relation to language issues, and the ability to plan and implement projects focused on language in society. They're also trained in academic writing, data analysis, and the application of linguistics in educational and community settings. The degree suits those from teaching, language services, government, or community work—and anyone wishing to specialise further in applied linguistics, either for professional or academic advancement.

International students can confirm current unit offerings and entry requirements, including English proficiency, on the official CDU page. Work-integrated learning is embedded where practical, and students have up to 48 hours per fortnight work rights on a student visa. Graduates may be eligible for the Temporary Graduate visa (subclass 485) post-study work stream, subject to government conditions.

Entry requirements

English: International applicants must evidence English proficiency. IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 overall is the common undergraduate and coursework-postgraduate standard, rising to 7.0–7.5 for teaching, nursing, medicine, law and social work. TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, Cambridge C1 Advanced and the university’s own English programmes are accepted as equivalents; the Department of Home Affairs sets a separate English threshold for the Student visa itself.

International students: Registered on CRICOS for international students. A Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) for this course supports a Student visa (subclass 500) application; Overseas Student Health Cover is required for the full duration.

Career outcomes

ESL/EAL teacher (in programmes where teaching credentials are paired or recognised)
Language policy adviser in government or education
Applied linguist in language research centres
Language resource developer in publishing and digital media
Roles in Indigenous language documentation and revitalisation projects
Community education and multicultural affairs officer
Research assistant in universities or language institutes

Frequently asked questions

How long is the Master of Applied Linguistics at Charles Darwin University?

It typically takes 1.5 years, with intakes in Semester 1 (Feb/Mar), Semester 2 (Jul).

How much is the tuition?

Tuition is around A$56,510 total. Fees change yearly — confirm with an advisor.

What are the career outcomes?

ESL/EAL teacher (in programmes where teaching credentials are paired or recognised)Language policy adviser in government or educationApplied linguist in language research centresLanguage resource developer in publishing and digital mediaRoles in Indigenous language documentation...

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