Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies

Language is an essential part of what it is to be human and this program gives you the opportunity to examine how language works in real life. The field of Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies develops and applies theories to solve everyday problems involving language. Course materials address such questions as how languages are taught and learned, how language competencies are evaluated, how writing is used to perform a variety of functions, how language is used in specific social contexts, how language can influence society and vice versa, how government policies influence language practices and what makes a bilingual education program effective.

Minor programs in American Sign Language, Mandarin Chinese, German, Italian, Japanese, Russian, Spanish and Linguistics are also available. Certificate programs are also available in Teaching English as a Second Language (CTESL) and in American Sign Language (CASL).

Teaching and Research

Carleton University is one of the leading universities in Canada in the fields of Linguistics, Applied Linguistics and Discourse Studies, and Teaching English as a Second Language. SLaLS is recognized nationally and internationally for its research into both theoretical and applied linguistics. Faculty members carry out research in a variety of areas: syntax, phonology, psycholinguistics, historical linguistics, language acquisition, language teaching, curriculum development, language policy, language testing, adult literacy, educational linguistics, the development of writing abilities and the use of language in the workplace.

One of Carleton’s greatest assets is its location in the nation’s capital. As a student here, you will be able to take advantage of all that Ottawa offers, including access to the federal government, cutting-edge research facilities, national and international organizations and numerous national museums.