MA Linguistics

Program Overview

The MA in Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London provides students with a thorough grounding in both the theoretical and practical aspects of linguistics. The program is designed to appeal to individuals who are passionate about understanding how language works, its role in society, and how it evolves over time. Students will engage with a variety of subfields within linguistics, including phonology, morphology, syntax, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, and language acquisition. The program also emphasizes research methods, providing students with the tools needed to conduct independent research in linguistics. Whether students are interested in pursuing a career in academic research, teaching, or language-related industries, the MA in Linguistics at QMUL prepares them for diverse career opportunities. The program’s flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies to their specific interests, providing them with a comprehensive and customized education in linguistics.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the MA in Linguistics at QMUL is designed to offer a well-rounded education in linguistic theory and methodology. Core modules cover foundational topics such as phonetics and phonology, syntax, semantics, and language typology. In addition to these core subjects, students can choose from a wide range of optional modules that explore various linguistic subfields, such as sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, historical linguistics, and the study of endangered languages. The program also includes a module on research methods, where students develop the skills necessary to design, conduct, and analyze linguistic research. The curriculum culminates in an independent research project or dissertation, where students have the opportunity to explore a specific area of linguistics in depth. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, ensuring that students are well-prepared for professional careers or further academic study.

Research Focus: Research is a central component of the MA in Linguistics at Queen Mary University of London. The university is renowned for its research excellence in linguistics, particularly in areas such as syntax, phonology, language acquisition, sociolinguistics, and language documentation. Students in the program are encouraged to engage with cutting-edge research, both in their coursework and through their independent dissertation projects. The research focus within the program covers a broad range of topics, including the structure and use of language, the social dimensions of language, and the cognitive processes underlying language acquisition and use. Faculty members at QMUL are experts in a variety of linguistic subfields, and students benefit from the opportunity to work with these leading scholars on research projects that contribute to the ongoing development of linguistic theory and practice. The research culture at QMUL encourages students to explore innovative approaches to the study of language and to contribute to the global discourse on linguistic issues.

Industry Engagement: The MA in Linguistics program at Queen Mary University of London also emphasizes industry engagement, providing students with valuable opportunities to apply their linguistic knowledge in real-world contexts. The program’s strong links with various industries, including education, media, publishing, and language technology, ensure that students can explore career options that involve language expertise. Guest lectures, workshops, and networking events with industry professionals are regularly organized, allowing students to gain insights into the practical applications of linguistics in various fields. Additionally, students have the opportunity to participate in internships or collaborative research projects with industry partners, further enhancing their professional development. These industry connections provide students with the skills and experience needed to pursue a wide range of career opportunities in areas such as language consultancy, translation, language teaching, or even the development of speech recognition technologies and artificial intelligence systems.

Global Perspective: Queen Mary University of London offers a global perspective on linguistics, acknowledging the diverse and multifaceted nature of language. The MA in Linguistics program reflects this global outlook by addressing linguistic issues from a variety of cultural and geographical contexts. Students are exposed to global linguistic trends, such as language variation and change, multilingualism, and the preservation of endangered languages. The program emphasizes the importance of understanding language in its social and cultural contexts, allowing students to engage with global issues such as language policy, language rights, and the role of language in identity formation. Moreover, QMUL’s international research collaborations provide students with access to a broad network of scholars and resources from around the world. This global perspective ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to work in diverse linguistic environments and to engage with linguistic challenges on a global scale.