The PhD Program in Applied Linguistics: 

The graduate programs in Applied Linguistics at King Saud University are among the leading programs in the Kingdom. Founded in 1987, these programs are one of the oldest and most distinguished graduate programs in Applied Linguistics in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with more than two thousand graduates.  The PhD program in Applied Linguistics seeks leadership and excellence in scientific research by providing an educational environment that deepens knowledge in Applied Linguistics studies. The program also aims to prepare (academicians) distinguished in academic scientific research in Applied Linguistics by providing an incubating learning environment (an environment that nurtures learning) for (with aim to excel and be a pioneer) excellence and uniqueness in scientific research. The program seeks to prepare graduates who can deal with issues related to second language learning, qualify academics who can discover language problems, and find solutions based on scientific foundations. The program introduces students to recent technical developments and their role in education, training, and linguistic research. The graduate of the program also acquires the necessary expertise to conduct linguistic research based on developments in Applied Linguistics and the ability to review and develop existing language programs in line with the developments and requirements of teaching and learning, thus qualifying the graduate program to teach graduate-level courses in Applied Linguistics and supervise university theses.