Program Overview

Overview

The Linguistics MA is a flexible program that equips students with the research skills necessary for independent study in linguistics. The course covers theoretical and general linguistics, descriptive linguistics, applied linguistics, and combinations of these specialisms. Students can choose from two specialist pathways: English Language and Language Acquisition.

What You'll Learn

The program provides students with:

• Research skills necessary for independent study in linguistics and English language
• The skills to critically engage with current work in the subject area
• Confidence to address linguistic questions and participate in current theoretical debates
• Advanced knowledge of a range of issues in the subject area
• Mastery of the methods and skills required to obtain and interpret relevant research data

Modules

The course includes modules on:

• Research Methods in Language and Linguistics
• MA Linguistics Dissertation
• Optional modules such as:
  • Generative Syntax
  • Issues in Phonological Theory 1
  • Advanced Topics in Phonology
  • Issues in Pragmatic Theory
  • Language and Society
  • Lexical Innovation
  • The Social History of English
  • English Historical Semantics
  • Advanced Topics in Second Language Acquisition
  • Topics on Developmental Linguistics Research
  • Foundations in Second Language Learning and Teaching

How You'll Learn

The program is delivered through:

• Interactive lectures
• Seminars
• Assessment methods include:
  • Case study
  • Dissertation
  • Essay
  • Professional skills assessments
  • Oral examination
  • Oral presentation
  • Practical lab report
  • Poster
  • Research paper
  • Written examination
  • Written exercise

Your Development

The program provides access to:

• Academic staff
• Personal tutors and research supervisors
• University Student Services Team
• Student representatives
• Peers
• The LingLab, which provides access to linguistics and experimental software
• Specialized equipment, including professional-quality recording equipment and ultrasound tongue imaging
• Linguistic corpora, including DECTE, Transana, ICE-GB Corpus of English, and BYU Corpora

Your Future

The program equips students with the skills required for a wide range of careers, including:

• Education
• Information technology
• Lexicography
• Language planning
• Media and journalism
• Publishing
• Speech and language therapy
• Translation and interpretation
• Advertising, branding, and marketing
• Heritage management
• Management and research

Quality and Ranking

• 42% of the university's research is classified as 4* world-leading research (Research Excellence Framework 2021)
• 65% increase in research power since 2014 (Research Excellence Framework 2021)
• Global Top 140 University (QS World University Rankings 2026)
• Global Top 160 University (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025)
• Top 125 for Arts and Humanities (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025)
• Top 200 for Linguistics (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025)

Facilities

The School of English Literature, Language and Linguistics is a lively and diverse community, with:

• Over 700 undergraduates and 150 postgraduates
• A purpose-built postgraduate suite with dedicated computer clusters, meeting rooms, a kitchen, and a lounge
• Access to the LingLab and specialized equipment

Fees and Funding

• Tuition fees for 2026 entry (per year):
  • Home students: £11,400 (full-time), £5,700 (part-time)
  • International students: £25,900 (full-time)
• Scholarships and funding opportunities are available

Entry Requirements

• A 2:1 honours degree, or international equivalent, in linguistics, a language, or a discipline primarily involving the scientific study of human cognition or behaviour
• English language requirements:
  • IELTS: 6.5 (with a minimum of 6.0 in all sub-skills)
  • Pearson: 62 (with a minimum of 59 in all sub-skills)
  • Duolingo English Test: 105 (with a minimum of 90 in all sub-skills)
  • TOEFL: 90 (with a minimum of 20 in all sub-skills)

How to Apply

• The course starts in September
• There is no application closing date
• International students are advised to apply at least two months before the course starts
• A deposit of £1,500 is required for international students who need a visa to study in the UK
• Programme codes: 4140F (full-time), 4140P (part-time)