Forensic Linguistics (MA)

How will I be taught?

During the taught stage, you will be taught mostly through weekly seminars / workshops, where you’ll have the opportunity to develop an understanding of particular topics related to language and linguistics.

You’ll be able to discuss concepts and ideas in small groups and open class discussions, to consolidate and get feedback on your individual learning, and to develop communication skills in informal group discussions and oral presentations. Depending on your prior experience, you might be encouraged to attend the lectures for various undergraduate modules as well.

The teaching for core modules combines discussion of theoretical issues and practical challenges raised by the forensic setting, while the teaching for optional modules provides further theoretical discussion with some focus on the development of practical research skills. Sessions rely on your good preparation.

All modules within the MA in Forensic Linguistics make extensive use of the University’s virtual learning environment, Learning Central, where you can access discussion forums and find course materials.

During the dissertation stage, you’ll conduct independent research on a topic of your choice with regular supervision from a member of staff.

How will I be assessed?

The taught modules within this programme are assessed through a variety of methods, including academic essays, linguistic analyses, analytical reports, research projects and oral presentations. The form(s) of assessment for individual modules are set out in the relevant module description. Modules are assessed on the basis of analytical descriptions of oral or written material or other media and / or discursive essays. You will often be encouraged to choose your own material for analysis, or to collect original data, and to relate your analyses to areas of personal interest. Emphasis in assessment is placed on critical and conceptual sophistication as well as on the production of clear, persuasive and scholarly essays presented in a professional manner and submitted on time.

Formative work is offered for some modules, particularly those in which you may undertake forms of assessment that may be new to you. Other modules offer a series of assignments with the express intention that you might learn cumulatively. Elsewhere, you are encouraged to consult the relevant module leader on the main ideas and plans for your assignments.

How will I be supported?

The subject Director of PGT will provide a contact point for discussion of any problems arising from the programme. You’ll also be assigned a personal tutor for the duration of your studies, who is available to discuss your general academic progress and student experience.

You can have one-to-one discussions with the programme convenor or with other relevant staff during set office hours in teaching weeks.

All staff hold weekly office hours during teaching weeks and you can make appointments to see module leaders one-to-one about any issues. Writing skills support is available to all students from academic staff and via the School’s Writing Development Centre. 

Careers support includes one-to-one career planning advice meetings and information about placement opportunities.   

Beyond the School, the University offers a range of support services and events to help you plan your career, manage your emotional, mental, and physical health, advise you on finance or money matters, and access support related to disabilities and dyslexia. These services are located at the University’s Centre for Student Life.

What skills will I practise and develop?

The Learning Outcomes for this programme describe what you’ll achieve by the end of your programme at Cardiff University and identify the knowledge and skills that you will develop. They will also help you to understand what is expected of you.

Many of the learning outcomes involve practising skills that are transferable to numerous areas of employment.

On successful completion of your programme you’ll be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding:

• Evaluate the use of language in legal settings from linguistic, communication and interdisciplinary perspectives.
• Critique forensic linguistic evidence and reports.
• Categorise a range of empirical linguistic phenomena and use the relevant descriptive terminology.
• Assess how different legal contexts affect the nature of language and communication.

Intellectual Skills:

• Critically evaluate ideas, arguments and empirical research in forensic linguistics.
• Explain information and ideas clearly and coherently in written and/or oral formats.
• Sustain a critical argument that is responsive to the particular conventions of the genre.

Professional Practical Skills:

• Evaluate, synthesise and interpret qualitative and / or quantitative forensic linguistic data.
• Design and execute a small-scale independent study.

Transferable/Key Skills:

• Develop various employability skills including time management, effective communication and the ability to follow instructions.
• Demonstrate awareness of personal and professional considerations required to conduct research ethically.
• Critically evaluate different sources of information.