VU
Virtual University of Pakistan
Department of English

Associate Degree in English (Applied Linguistics)

Introduction

Associate Degree in English (Applied Linguistics) is a two-year degree program that has been designed with a special focus on advancing academic and professional development of students who want to gain knowledge of linguistics and apply it to real world scenarios. With an emphasis on developing skills and knowledge that can be utilized in diverse professional environments, this program draws on knowledge about language, how it works and how it affects real-life issues.

The program introduces students to key issues within the field of Applied Linguistics with a focus on topics relating to second language pedagogy. It encourages students to develop a broad theoretical base reflecting current cutting edge research within Applied Linguistics and related disciplines. Students will explore how language is used in a variety of social settings, compare language variability with social diversity and examine how language proficiency can impact on people’s lives.

Objectives

The program aims to:

 

    1. Apply advanced English proficiency to communicate clearly, precisely, and inclusively across academic, professional, and social contexts, utilizing all forms of communication.
    2. Develop and apply critical thinking to evaluate, synthesize, and produce coherent, well-structured arguments and innovative solutions.
    3. Integrate ethical understanding and cultural awareness to promote respectful, inclusive interactions and engage in socially responsible global practices.
    4. Apply advanced pedagogical skills to design inclusive, equitable, and high-quality ESL/EFL educational experiences using modern technologies and innovative methodologies.
    5. Cultivate a research-driven approach and a commitment to lifelong learning to tackle modern linguistic challenges, foster innovation, and contribute to sustainable development in linguistics and related fields.
    6. Analyze historical, social, and cultural dynamics to understand language development and the global impact of English on identity, culture, and communication.

Eligibility Criteria

Intermediate (12 years of education)/ A- Level or equivalent qualification with at-least 45% marks or 2.00 out of 4.00 CGPA

Note

Candidates having ‘A’ level or Deeni Asnad or foreign qualification are required to provide equivalence certificate from IBCC or HEC, Islamabad as applicable.

Zero Semester” is not applicable.

Course exemption is not allowed.

Assessment Criteria

 

The students’ study progress evaluation mechanism is based on continuous assessment throughout the semester by giving assignments, quizzes, Graded Discussion Board (GDB), mid-term and final-term exams. The mid and final term exams are conducted at VU’s designated exam centers and usually count for 80-90% of the total marks of a course.

Award of Degree

To be eligible for the award of the Associate Degree in English (Applied Linguistics), the students are required to complete prescribed coursework of at least 66 credit hours with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 2.0 out of 4.

Project / Internship / Practicals

NA

Scheme of Study

Total Credit Hours 66
Total Semesters 4
Duration 2 years


Associate Degree Programs (Associate Degree in English (Applied Linguistics))
Semester No. 1
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
CS101 Introduction to Computing General Education Applications of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG101 English Comprehension General Education Functional English Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG502 Introduction to Linguistics Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
MTH100 General Mathematics General Education Quantitative Reasoning Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
SOC101 Introduction to Sociology General Education Social Sciences Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ETH202 Ethics (for Non-Muslims) General Education Islamic Studies/Religious Education Studies Elective 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0)
ISL202 Islamic Studies General Education Islamic Studies/Religious Education Studies Elective 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0)
 
Semester No. 2
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
ENG201 Business and Technical English Writing General Education Expository Writing Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG501 History of English Language Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG522 Applied Linguistics Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ETH100 Effective Citizenship General Education Civics and Community Engagement Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
STA301 Statistics and Probability General Education Quantitative Reasoning Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
PAK302 Pakistan Studies General Education Ideology and Constitution of Pakistan Required 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0)
 
Semester No. 3
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
EDU403 Art, Crafts and Calligraphy General Education Arts and Humanities Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG507 Phonetics and Phonology Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG508 Semantics and Pragmatics Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG509 Morphology and Syntax Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
MGT602 Entrepreneurship General Education Entrepreneurship Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
PAK301 Pakistan Studies General Education Ideology and Constitution of Pakistan Required 2 (Theory:2, Practical:0)
 
Semester No. 4
Course Code Title Category Sub Category Type Pre Requisite Credit Hours Specialization
ENG503 Introduction to English Language Teaching Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG504 Second Language Acquisition Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG506 World Englishes Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
ENG510 Sociolinguistics Major Domain Core Required 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
BIO101 Basic I-Biology General Education Natural Sciences Elective 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
GSC101 General Science General Education Natural Sciences Elective 3 (Theory:3, Practical:0)
 


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