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.
Following foundational study in language development, students may specialise in one of three streams:
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.
Graduates of the Master of Language Development can expect to work in language development, advocating for local communities and applying language solutions such as language assessment, research and documentation, literacy and education, materials development, and translation. Vocational outcomes for graduates include roles such as Bible translation specialist, linguistics specialist, literacy and education specialist, Scripture Engagement worker, language surveyor and, with further experience, consultant status in these domains.
The course is endorsed by SIL Australia and SIL Global. SIL Global is the primary employer of graduates with an award in language development from Eastern College Australia. Opportunities with global mission organisations and other NGOs are also available.
The course trains students across 15 units, totalling 96 credit points.
All students undertake:
Streams:
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:
The course is currently not open to overseas students, but an application for CRICOS is pending. If you are an overseas student you can fill out an expression of interest here→
All applicants will be required to meet Eastern’s General Entry Requirements.
Applicants will be considered based on their work, other experiences, and a demonstrated capacity to study at this level.
Applicants must demonstrate suitability for the course in an interview with an Academic staff member and the Academic Administrator (New Student Interview).
As for Entry Requirements (General) plus either:
Applicants who have completed Eastern’s qualifications in language development will receive full credit towards the Master of Language Development (Graduate Certificate – 24 credit points, Graduate Diploma 48 credit points). Those who have completed similar qualifications may apply for transfer of credit or recognition of prior learning by completing the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)/Transfer of Credit Application form. Details of the process can be found in the Recognition of Prior Learning / Credit Transfer Policy.
If not born in a designated English-speaking country or studied at least one year of tertiary education in English, IELTS 6.5 overall. More information is available here: https://ww2.eastern.edu.au/admissions/english-language-requirements
English and academic support is available for Australian First Nations students and for students from non-English speaking backgrounds. For applicants who are required to demonstrate English language proficiency, support may include assistance in preparing for an IELTS test prior to enrolment.
You may be entitled to credit for prior learning, whether formal or informal. Formal learning can include previous study in higher education, vocational education, or adult and community education. Informal learning can include on the job learning or various kinds of work and life experience. Credit can reduce the amount of study needed to complete a degree. For further information about credit and recognition of prior learning please see https://www.eastern.edu.au/admissions/information→ or call the College on 03 9790 9200 and speak to the Registrar.
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).
For a breakdown on the fees for this course please visit our fees page→
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