For an appropriate performance within Theory of Discourse, it is essential that the students have a high command of the English language, equivalent to C1 or C2 of the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages). Given the nature of the subject and the Master program it forms part of, all the bibliography will be in English, and all the activities and papers will have to be written in English.

The students should also have the necessary knowledge and technical means to be able to log into the virtual course, for this subject follows the UNED distance education ICT methodology.

It is highly recommendable for the students to have previously passed an introductory course on pragmatics and/or discourse analysis (e.g. in their undergraduate studies), given the fact that at postgraduate level they are expected to not only study and understand the concepts, but also do research within the field. If, however, they have not had any previous contact with the field, they will be provided with bibliographical references and internet links for them to familiarize with its main tenets and concepts before they start with the study of the contents proper of this subject.