Program Overview

Forensic Linguistics (MA)

The Forensic Linguistics (MA) programme at Cardiff University is designed to equip students with the theory and practical techniques to analyse the use of language in legal contexts, evaluate expert testimony on forensic matters, and consider the role of expertise in legal systems. This innovative programme is underpinned by the expertise of the Centre for Language and Communication Research and delivers a solid grounding in the subject, as well as the freedom to tailor the programme around career ambitions.

Why Study This Course

Train alongside international experts at the agenda-setting Centre for Language and Communication Research, home of the world's first MA in Forensic Linguistics. Study at the frontiers of inquiry, analysing cutting-edge ideas with leading researchers in their fields. Collaborate on authentic projects, working on real-world academic projects and honing research abilities and team working skills. Examine the linguist's role in the legal system and observe courtroom procedure. Understand linguistic evidence, taking a deep dive into various forms of forensic evidence used in legal cases and distinguishing expert from pseudoscientific evidence.

Admissions Criteria

To be considered for an offer for this programme, applicants must meet all of the entry requirements. A copy of the degree certificate and transcripts showing a 2:2 honours degree in a relevant subject area, such as criminology, English language, English language & literature (combined), forensic psychology, law, linguistics, modern languages, sociology with defined criminology pathway, or an equivalent international degree, is required. A copy of the IELTS certificate with an overall score of 7.0 with 6.5 in all subskills, or evidence of an accepted equivalent, is also necessary.

Course Structure

This is a 1-year full-time programme, comprising a taught stage (2 semesters) followed by the dissertation. In the taught stage, students will study 3 core and 3 optional modules worth 20 credits each. The core modules include:

• Forensic Linguistics I
• Forensic Linguistics 2
• Research Foundations in Language and Linguistics The optional modules include:
• Discourse and Social Interaction
• Current Issues in Sociolinguistics
• Phonetics and Phonology
• Research Experience in Forensic Linguistics
• Corpus Linguistics
• Research Methods in Language and Linguistics

Learning and Assessment

Students will be taught mostly through weekly seminars/workshops, where they will have the opportunity to develop an understanding of particular topics related to language and linguistics. Assessment methods include academic essays, linguistic analyses, analytical reports, research projects, and oral presentations. Emphasis in assessment is placed on critical and conceptual sophistication as well as on the production of clear, persuasive, and scholarly essays presented in a professional manner and submitted on time.

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for 2026 entry are as follows:

• Home status: £11,200 per year
• Overseas status: £24,700 per year, with a deposit of £2,500

Funding

Financial support may be available to individuals who meet certain criteria. The Master's Scholarships, postgraduate loans, and Alumni Discount are available for eligible students.

Careers and Placements

The MA in Forensic Linguistics will prepare students for a range of exciting professional roles or be an important step on the path to a PhD at Cardiff University or elsewhere. Graduates have progressed to careers in relevant areas such as policing, the courts, government, and the security services, as well as careers in areas without a forensic connection. The Research Experience module offers the opportunity to work with a member of staff on an ongoing, authentic research task within part of a larger research study.