Master of Language Development

The Master of Language Development is designed to train up researchers and practitioners who recognise the value of linguistic diversity as evidence of God’s creativity in the world and can contribute in contexts of language development from a reflective theological and missiological perspective, with a focus on non-dominant language groups. The languages people use directly impact their social, emotional, intellectual, financial, physical and spiritual wellbeing. Graduates, integrating faith, knowledge and skills, will be able to apply language expertise that promotes meaningful development, education and engagement with Scripture, that supports communities to flourish using the languages they value most. 

Building on core study about language development, our course offers three streams:

1. Bible Translation
2. Linguistics
3. Literacy and Education

Drawing on SIL’s experience and expertise as a Christian International Non-Government Organisation (INGO) working with non-dominant language communities globally, the Master of Language Development equips students to advocate, build capacity, and work with communities to apply sustainable language solutions for underdocumented and minoritised languages, and the communities who use them.

The course trains students across 15 units, totalling 96 credit points.

All students undertake:

• 6 core Language Development units, equivalent to 42 credit points
• 30 credit points of specialisation at the 800 level (see streams below)
• 18 credit points of specialisation at the 900 level (see streams below)
• 1 unit from remaining 900 units, equivalent to 6 credit points

Streams:

• Bible translation
• Linguistics
• Literacy and education

800-level units will typically be delivered hybridly, with the option for online and on-campus study. In-person intensives will typically run at the campus in Kangaroo Ground for 900-level units. 

Graduates will:

1. Apply ethical principles and appropriate methodologies in the design and implementation of research in language development with and within ethnolinguistic communities, informed by robust missiology and Christlike humility
   
2. Creatively apply knowledge and skills with initiative, high-level personal autonomy, responsibility, and intercultural sensitivity, in collaboration with development partners to deliver projects for social justice 
   
3. Critically evaluate and generate language development strategies through the application of cognitive, technical and creative skills, and theological and missiological reflection 
   
4. Critically examine contemporary literature and theories in disciplines of language development, including from a Christian perspective 
   
5. Extend the boundaries of the knowledge of the disciplines of language development and linguistics through research, original thought and critical reflection on personal practice, and effectively communicate findings to a range of audiences 
   
6. Interpret and justify to specialist and non-specialist audiences, theoretical issues, methodologies, conclusions and decisions in the field of language development

Students may exit the Master of Language Development early with a Graduate Diploma in Language Development (48 credit points) or Graduate Certificate in Language Development (24 credit points). 

More information regarding fees, entry requirements, applications, units offered, will be available on Eastern College Australia’s website soon.