Digital and Multilingual Communication (Taught)

The Digital and Multilingual Communication MA explores how language operates in digitally mediated and multilingual environments from theoretical, applied, synchronic and diachronic perspectives. The course enables you to understand and critically evaluate a wide range of ideas in the study of language and communication, particularly in relation to digital technologies, global communication, and linguistic diversity. It will also equip you with the intellectual perspectives and research skills needed to conduct independent research.

The MA is for you if you've taken English language and/or linguistics modules at undergraduate level, or if you've studied allied disciplines such as media and communication, sociology, psychology, cultural studies or TESOL. It will be of particular interest if you wish to pursue further academic study, or if you're interested in careers involving digital communication, media, multilingual content, or global communication practices.

If studying the degree full-time, you'll complete 180 credits in one academic year; if part-time, you'll normally complete 180 credits over two academic years. You'll study four core modules (including a 60-credit dissertation or project on a topic related to digital and/or multilingual communication), as well as two modules from a list of options. Core modules introduce you to key areas such as digital discourse, multilingualism, global English’s, and digital research methods, equipping you with theoretical and analytical tools to study language and communication in contemporary digital contexts. Option modules allow you to explore related topics such as social media, discourse in the digital age, and language in society.

Teaching is mainly delivered through weekly two- or three-hour sessions for each module, which include seminars, workshops, tutorials and practical sessions. You'll also undertake independent, self-directed study, and will be prepared for the dissertation or project through structured sessions in research methodology and digital methods. Assessment methods include submitted coursework such as essays, reports, data analysis tasks, presentations and digital portfolios. There are no formal exams.