Ways in which the field of applied linguistics is evolving in the changing global context are examined. After a brief review of the field's history in the late twentieth century, and of the development of a number of related professional organizations, the emergence of applied linguistics as an interdisciplinary endeavor is discussed. Major areas of current interest are also explored, including innovative language education and assessment, the crafting of sensible approaches to linguistic diversity, policy and planning in language-related contexts, and language issues in business and the workplace. A look at future directions in applied linguistics focuses on the changing demographic, economic, and technological conditions with implications for work within the field. Contains 14 references. (MSE)