Language Testing (Online)

The Language Testing (Online) course from Lancaster Universityis designed for part-time study over two years. You will take a series of online modules and carry out a dissertation project. You’ll have the opportunity to base your coursework and dissertation research on issues within your own educational or professional context.

In each module you will engage with tasks and targeted reading on specific topics, perhaps introduced with short video lectures. Tasks may include individual responses and reflection or more practical work, for example, evaluating test items. You will share your ideas with other students via online forums, and comment on their contributions.

The tutor will provide thorough, tailored feedback on these tasks at the end of each unit (week). For every module, you will also participate in work on one or two more substantial tasks, involving preparation in a small group of students. These tasks create the input for other students to review and comment on.

There will be plenty of opportunities to interact with peers and your tutors. The international reach of the program allows you to learn from the diverse experience and expertise of the other students as well as of your tutors. Equally important, you will contribute and reflect on your own experience and values.

Career opportunities:

MA Language Testing graduates from Lancaster lead test development and research projects in many parts of the world. Through the network of contacts that you will develop during your studies on the Lancaster MA program, you will expand your knowledge of the professional opportunities available in the field of language testing and assessment. You will also be able to use this network to find further openings for collaboration and support as your career develops.

After graduating, you may find opportunities to progress in your current role or decide to apply your skills to a different position.

Your skills will be valued by employers in a range of settings, including:

• Language testing organisations

• Ministries of education, foreign affairs and defence

• Curriculum development centres

• Schools, colleges and universities

• Cultural organisations

• Educational publishing

Several of our MA students have won international awards for their dissertations and have published their research in academic journals. If you enjoy working on your own research, you may decide to continue exploring this area by studying for a PhD.

Course Overview

• Current Topics in Language Testing

• Designing Language Tests: Techniques and Constructs

• Doing Research in Language Testing

• Language Testing Dissertation

• Statistical Analysis for Language Testing