IU is the first distance learning university to offer an Applied Linguistics programme

• The Bachelor's degree course in Applied Linguistics combines traditional Linguistics content with practical expertise in AI, digitalisation and intercultural skills. 
• Innovative technologies and research methods support the practice-oriented degree programme. 
• Over 100 students have already enrolled on the distance learning programme.

Erfurt, 16 April 2025. Since February, students at IU International University of Applied Sciences (IU) have been able to study Applied Linguistics with a Bachelor of Arts degree. The new distance learning programme, which enables students with the appropriate qualifications to transfer to a master's degree course, provides a solid education in the humanities. Through projects and optional internships, students gain an understanding of everyday working life during their studies - for example in communication professions.  With the new Applied Linguistics course, IU is the first distance learning university in Germany to offer an innovative programme that combines literary and linguistic knowledge with practical skills for the future.

”In Germany, Linguistics has so far only been offered in classroom teaching at around 50 state universities. The focus has mostly been on imparting theoretical knowledge, meaning that students have rarely come into contact with professional practice. The bachelor's degree programme in Applied Linguistics, on the other hand, focuses on teaching future skills. This means that students are specifically prepared for the labour market during their studies,” explains Ersin Münüklü, Professor of Modern German Literature and Head of the Applied Linguistics programme at IU International University of Applied Sciences. “The first few weeks have already shown that the concept is very popular. Many students expressed their satisfaction at being able to flexibly combine traditional Linguistics content with practical skills in a distance learning programme.”

Close practical relevance and use of innovative technologies

In Applied Linguistics, students not only learn about the literary and linguistic content and concepts of the traditional Linguistics degree programme, but also about professional practice. Technological developments such as artificial intelligence and innovative scientific research methods play an important role here, which are introduced in various courses and facilitate and enrich the study of Linguistics. ”By no means all students of Linguistics opt for teaching and stay at the university. For decades, professional fields such as journalism, cultural management, public relations and marketing have been attractive for Linguistics students, as they require a keen sense of language,” explains Ersin Münüklü, head of the degree programme.

The Applied Linguistics programme also includes study projects, linguistic exercises and optional internships. This gives students an understanding of the reality and requirements of professional practice during their studies, making it easier to enter the labour market later on.

Distance learning offers a high degree of flexibility beyond traditional degree programmes

The bachelor's programme in Applied Linguistics also offers the best conditions for students who are already working and would like to continue their education: In addition to a full-time option, there is also a choice of two part-time options, allowing students to organise their studies flexibly. They receive comprehensive support - from specialist advice on course content and support with final theses to live consultation hours. Interactive live sessions via video conference also enable direct dialogue with lecturers and fellow students. The digital learning platform myCampus, which is also available as an ‘IU Learn’ app on mobile devices, gives students access to all learning materials - including digital scripts, learning videos and podcasts. myCampus also serves as the starting point for Syntea, an AI-supported learning assistant that students can use to prepare specifically for their exams, for example via an exam trainer.

Information on the AppliedLinguistics programme can be found here.