English Applied Linguistics Programs


PhD Program

Using theoretical linguistics as its foundation, the program combines synchronic, empirically based English linguistic research and Hungarian-English comparative linguistic research. Within the field of applied linguistics the program emphasizes the study of the process of foreign language learning, second language acquisition, sociolinguistics, language contact, discourse analysis, and language planning (with special attention given to the issues of language contact, the planning of language learning, and teaching).

The aim of the program is to train specialists who possess a thorough and up-to-date knowledge of and good research capabilities in English applied linguistics, and who are able to utilize their knowledge and skills in the fields of language policy, second language acquisition, the second language teaching programs, and language contact in the increasing need for trained specialists since Hungary's admission into the European Union. In addition to theoretical training, empirical linguistic analysis is given a special emphasis. The training encompasses a wide range of English-Hungarian language contact situations ranging from instructed acquisition of English through the learning of Hungarian as a second language by native speakers of English in Hungary to the bilingualism of Hungarians living in the English-speaking world. Various other topics also covered include bilingual lexicography, attitudes to language learning, research on motivation, and the acoustic phonetic study of interlanguage phonology.

The specialists trained by the program are able to use their expertise in several fields, such as education administration, various positions brought about by Hungary's European integration which require special language and linguistic training, as well as higher education, and research.

The language of the program is English.