English Language and Linguistics

Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Linguistics at the University of Freiburg offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the English language, its structure, and its use in various contexts. This programme provides a solid foundation in theoretical and applied linguistics, enabling students to analyze and interpret the complexities of English phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Students will explore the historical development of the English language, its dialectal variations, and its role as a global lingua franca. The curriculum includes courses on language acquisition, sociolinguistics, corpus linguistics, and discourse analysis, allowing students to examine the social and cognitive aspects of language use. Additionally, the programme emphasizes practical skills in language analysis and research methodology, preparing graduates for careers in teaching, translation, interpretation, language technology, or further academic research. The university’s strong emphasis on research-led teaching ensures that students are engaged with current linguistic debates and methodologies. Small class sizes foster close interactions between students and faculty, promoting an active learning environment. The programme also provides opportunities for internships and international exchanges, affording students international exposure and professional experience. Graduates will possess excellent analytical, communication, and intercultural skills, making them well-equipped for diverse careers within academia, the media, publishing, or international organizations. The programme is designed for students passionate about language and keen to explore its complexities from multiple perspectives, combining theoretical knowledge with practical application to prepare for a dynamic and globalized career landscape.

Modules and Courses

The Master of Arts in English Language and Linguistics is made up of modules. Each module can consist of a variety of course types, including seminars, lectures and tutorials – all focusing on a specific theme. The modules include both required and elective seminars. 

The course of study includes the following modules:

• Essentials of Modern English Structure
• Present-Day English: Regional, Social and Stylistic Variability
• Language Change and the History of English
• Discourse and Communication
• Psycholinguistics: Language Acquisition and Bilingualism
• Corpus Linguistics and Language Technology
• Schools of Thought in English Linguistics
• Practical Language Skills
• Research Techniques and Presentation I
• Research Techniques and Presentation II
• Research Techniques and Presentation III

We welcome applications from candidates with an undergraduate degree (BA or equivalent) with a good GPA in English and/or linguistics. The program requires an excellent command of the English language: you must have a level equivalent to CEFR C1, certified by TOEFL (PBT 600, CBT 250, iBT 100), IELTS (7.5–8.0), or Cambridge (CAE/CPE). A working knowledge of German is recommended.

tuition_fees_and_funding_opportunities: The University of Freiburg offers various options for financing studies in English Language and Linguistics. Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the program specifics and whether the student qualifies for any scholarships or financial aid. Typically, for undergraduate programs, students pay a semester contribution which covers administrative fees, student services, and student union membership, amounting to approximately €150-€170 per semester. For Master’s programs, including English Language and Linguistics, tuition fees are generally around €150 to €3,000 per semester, depending on the specific program and student nationality.

The university provides several scholarship opportunities to support students financially. The Deutschlandstipendium offers merit-based support, typically €300 per month, for one year, for high-achieving students regardless of nationality. Additionally, the DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service) provides numerous scholarships for international students, which can cover monthly stipends, travel allowances, or tuition fees. International students are also encouraged to seek external funding sources, including government grants from their home countries or private foundations.

Students can apply for financial aid through the university’s scholarship office, which provides guidance and support throughout the application process. Many students also work part-time during their studies; the university allows international students to work up to 120 full days or 240 half days per year, providing some income to offset living costs.

Living expenses in Freiburg are relatively moderate compared to larger German cities, with estimated monthly costs ranging from €700 to €1,000, including accommodation, food, health insurance, and transportation. Affordable student accommodation options include dormitories managed by the Studentenwerk Freiburg or private shared apartments. Students are advised to plan their finances accordingly and explore all available funding opportunities to ensure a sustainable study experience.

Overall, while studying in English Language and Linguistics at the University of Freiburg, students have access to a range of funding options, from university scholarships and government grants to part-time employment, aiding them in covering tuition and living costs throughout their academic journey.

The Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Linguistics at the University of Freiburg offers students a comprehensive introduction to the study of the English language, its structure, usage, and development, alongside an exploration of linguistic theories and methods. The programme aims to deepen students’ understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of English linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, as well as sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, and language acquisition. Students will gain critical analytical skills through coursework that encourages examining language phenomena from multiple perspectives, supported by rigorous research methods.

The programme is designed to foster a nuanced appreciation of the diversity of English dialects and language varieties across different geographical and social contexts. Moreover, students will explore the historical development of the English language, its influence on and interaction with other languages, and contemporary issues in language use and policy. Practical language skills are also emphasized, with opportunities to improve both written and oral communication in English, preparing graduates for careers in education, translation, content creation, linguistics research, or related fields.

The curriculum typically comprises core modules covering core linguistic disciplines, as well as elective courses allowing students to specialize in areas of personal or professional interest. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects, internships, or study abroad programmes to enhance their academic and practical experience. The teaching is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and individual supervision, facilitated by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields.

The programme duration is usually six semesters (three years), culminating in a Bachelor's degree that qualifies graduates for entry into postgraduate studies or professional careers. The university emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, fostering critical thinking, cultural awareness, and scientific methodology. The degree also prepares students for advanced research or academic careers in linguistics, philology, language teaching, or other language-related fields. Graduate employment prospects are bolstered by the programme’s focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical language skills, making graduates versatile and well-equipped for diverse roles in academia, industry, and public service.