Applied Linguistics and Technology

 

Program Information:

Program Statement:
    Our PhD program in Applied Linguistics & Technology (ALT) focuses on English language description, teaching, learning, and assessment, with particular emphasis on issues and practices related to technology: analysis of language using computational and corpus linguistic methods as well as the study of computer technology in English language teaching, learning, and assessment. The degree prepares students for a variety of academic appointments in departments of applied linguistics and English and for professional opportunities in research and development, international publishing, and government agencies in the U.S. and around the world where English is taught and used for specific educational, vocational, and professional purposes. Candidates are required to complete 72 hours of graduate credit including a dissertation; to meet a language requirement that may be fulfilled in a number of ways (students whose native language is other than English are considered to have met the language requirement after satisfying the Graduate College English requirement); and to pass a portfolio assessment, a preliminary examination (consisting of a dissertation proposal and pilot study and written response to questions about them), and an oral defense of the dissertation.
Degrees Offered:
  • Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
Program Handbook(s):
Learning Goals:
  • Demonstrate knowledge of and confidence with the use of computer applications relevant to teaching, learning, research, and assessment in applied linguistics
  • Design, implement and evaluate algorithms for automating linguistic analysis tasks based on knowledge natural language and speech processing programming
  • Formulate important research questions to for guiding investigations that contribute to theory and practice in one or more areas of applied linguistics
  • Apply principles of research methodology to design data collection, and analysis procedures to address research questions in at least one area of applied linguistics
  • Interpret and evaluate findings in view of their contribution to theory, research and practice in the relevant area
  • Communicate ideas, discoveries, and findings to others in a professional and creative manner
  • Collaborate with other professionals to create and investigate new knowledge, practices and products
  • Demonstrate independence and professionalism in teaching and research
How long does it take to earn a degree?
  • Median time to earn the doctorate: 6.0 years (Methods)
  • Median time to earn the master’s: No data

Program Contact:

Contact: Graduate Program Office
Phone: 515-294-2477
E-mail Address:

Mailing Address:

    English Department
    Graduate Program Office
    227 Ross Hall
    Iowa State University
    Ames, IA 50011-1201

Admission Requirements:

Graduate College Requirements:
  • 4 year Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
  • Academic Records/Transcripts
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (Program may alter requirement.)
  • Proof of English Proficiency.
Program Specific Requirements: International Requirements:
  • Financial Statement: Application
  • English Proficiency Minimum:
    TOEFL Paper (PBT) 587
    TOEFL Internet (iBT) 95
    IELTS 7
    PTE 79
    Duolingo (approved through spring 2025) 125

Application Information:

Application Deadlines:
    January 5 (once per year for fall semester entry only), with applications accepted and evaluated beginning October 15. Early applications are encouraged.
Application Details:
    This program is open to domestic and international students.