Master's Programme in Languages – General Linguistics

120 credits

What processes have led to the diversity of languages we see in the world today? How do people acquire their first language? What happens when they learn more languages? What are possible and impossible languages, and why? In the Master's programme in Languages, specialising in linguistics, you will gain a deeper understanding of this central aspect of the shared human world.

Autumn 2024 Autumn 2024, Uppsala, 100%, On-campus, English

The discipline of linguistics is the scientific study of language. Linguists document and describe individual languages and attempt to answer questions about why language is the way it is.

In the Master's programme in Languages, specialising in linguistics, you will gain a deeper understanding of this central aspect of the shared human world, as well as practical experience in collecting and analysing empirical data. The programme will develop your skills at the crossroads of humanities and culture and the human sciences.

The Faculty of Languages at Uppsala University has Sweden's broadest range of education in languages and language-related subjects. You choose to specialise in one of the main fields of study. It can be language, literature, linguistics and more.

Courses from other faculties can also be included in your degree to further specialise in your education. The programme allows you to read work-oriented courses specially designed for language students. The studies will also prepare you for future research, making you eligible for doctoral studies.

Degree

The programme and specialisation leads to the degree of Master of Arts (120 credits) with General Linguistics as the main field of study. After one year of study, it is possible to obtain a degree of Master of Arts (60 credits).

The programme includes courses and independent degree projects. During the first year, a series of work-oriented seminars and study visits are common to all students in the programme.

The first semester includes two programme-based courses - a course in theory and method as well as a course with work-oriented lectures and study visits. In addition, courses are taught in linguistics.

The second semester is devoted to specialisation in linguistics, with 15 higher education credits. The remaining 15 credits consist of a programme-wide methodology course (7.5 credits) and an elective course in linguistics or another subject (7.5 credits).

The third and fourth semesters are devoted to independent degree projects comprising 15 or 30 credits and elective courses in linguistics or other subjects. Opportunities for internships comprising 7.5 credits or 15 credits are available.

Some of the courses may require compulsory attendance. Studies conducted at a foreign university may be included in the degree. During the first semester of the programme, a seminar series is held with invited guest lecturers representing different professions with language in focus. In a seminar, you present your ideas and discuss a course book, or other study material that you are required to read before the seminar, with your classmates, while the teacher usually only moderates the discussion. The aim is to develop critical thinking and collaborative skills. All the students are expected to be active participants in all forms of discussions.

In addition to the seminars, there are also visits to workplaces related to a future career. The seminars and the workplace visits are common for all the students in the programme and provide valuable insight into professional life and an opportunity to make personal contacts. There are also opportunities for internships.

Some of the courses are taught as distance courses with online seminars.

Completing the Master's Programme in Language, specialising in Linguistics, will help you to develop intellectually, refining your research and analytical skills in ways that will prepare you either for doctoral study or for employment beyond the university in a wide array of fields.

If you are keen on pursuing a career in academia, the programme will provide excellent preparation for further studies at the doctoral level. Several of our graduates have gone on to do a PhD and become university lecturers.

Career support

During your time as a student, UU Careers offers support and guidance. You have the opportunity to take part in a variety of activities and events that will prepare you for your future career. Learn more about UU Careers.

Contact

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