Penn State College of the Liberal Arts Department of Applied Linquistics

Academic Programs

The department offers programs in graduate study leading to the following academic degrees:

Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics (PhD in APLNG)
The Ph.D. in Applied Linguistics provides students with a broad theoretical grounding and research experiences in examining the nature of language and language learning.
Master of Arts in TESL ( MATESL )
The M.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language is designed for individuals seeking advanced professional preparation in the teaching of English as a second or foreign language in the U.S. or abroad.
Undergraduate TESOL Minor ( TESOL Minor)
The TESOL Minor provides undergraduate students from any major with the minimum qualifications to teach English to adults in a variety of language programs in the United States and abroad.
International Teaching Assistants Program (ITA)
This program is specifically designed for international graduate students already admitted to the University who need to improve language and communication skills necessary to serve as teaching assistants in their respective departments.
The English as A Second Language Program (ESL)
Courses offered in this program are for both undergraduate and graduate students who are already enrolled in Penn State and wish to improve their academic skills.
Teaching ESL Certificate
The department collaborates with the College of Education in offering the ESL Program Specialist certificate in teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) for K-12 teachers. Courses are offered on campus, on-line and with the option of a month-long language and culture immersion and practice teaching experience abroad.

Individuals who wish to improve their English skills and are not enrolled in a University program may be interested in the Intensive English Communication Program, offered through Outreach. IECP.