Linguistics

Core Courses

The MA programme Linguistics covers one academic year (60 ects). Students have to choose three courses (each 10 ects) in the first semester, of which at least two Advanced courses. In the second semester students choose one course (of 10 ects) and write their Master’s thesis (20 ects). Besides this curriculum students can choose from two extracurriculair courses. These give specific knowledge which add to the general knowledge of Linguistics.

Tracks

Electives

More info

Objectives
Structure
Master’s thesis and requirements for graduation

Objectives

The master’s programme Linguistics aims to strengthen and deepen the knowledge
acquired in the course of the bachelor’s programme. Students are presented with
theoretical, computational, clinical and experimental linguistics at a high level. The
programme prepares students for professions in the fields of linguistic research, language
and speech technology, clinical applications, education, or language counselling. In
addition, the programme is suitable for those who wish to pursue an academic career in
the field of linguistics.

Graduates in Linguistics are able to:

• compare linguistic data making use of advanced theoretical tools;

• apply formal methods in constructing models and researching various phenomena in
  language and speech;

• use theoretical tools in order to analyse the biological, neurological and psychological
  dimensions of language and speech. The programme aims to raise students to a level
  of knowledge and skills that allows them to proceed to PhD research. Alternatively,
  graduates qualify for positions outside the university that require an academic level of
  thinking.

Structure

The master’s programme in Linguistics offers a large selection of courses in various
linguistic disciplines. In addition to theoretical linguistics, the programme focuses on
experimental, clinical and computational aspects of linguistics. The strong link between
education and research plays an important role in this programme. Depending on their
field of interest, students choose to specialise in one of the following subjects:

• theoretical linguistics;

• clinical linguistics, or other experimental linguistics.

The master’s programme covers one academic year (60 ects) and consists of four
consecutive courses of 10 ects each, along with a concluding master’s thesis of 20 ects.
The “advanced theory” courses emphasise the theoretical background. The “elective”
courses focus on applications of linguistic research. Students may also follow courses
of their choice from other programmes. Proposals to this end must be submitted to the
Board of Examiners.

Master’s thesis and requirements for graduation

In order to graduate, students must have completed 60 ects of courses including the
writing of the thesis. The final component of the master’s programme is the master’s
thesis, consisting of approximately 17,000 words. The thesis is evaluated by the lecturer
(supervisor) and a second reader.
Also see: Teaching and Examination Regulations