English Linguistics

The MSc Linguistics at University College London offers a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of the core issues and debates within modern linguistics. This one-year full-time program is designed for students who wish to deepen their understanding of language structure, use, and evolution through a combination of theoretical frameworks and empirical research methods. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics including phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, providing students with a solid foundation in both the analysis and description of languages. Additionally, the program emphasizes current issues such as language acquisition, sociolinguistics, computational linguistics, and language change, preparing graduates for diverse careers or further academic study in linguistics or related fields. UCL’s department boasts renowned faculty members whose expertise contributes to a stimulating learning environment, combining lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research projects. Students have access to cutting-edge facilities and resources, including extensive language corpora and experimental tools, encouraging hands-on learning and innovative research. The program also fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, empowering students to approach linguistic questions with methodological rigor and creative insight. Graduates of the MSc Linguistics program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, language technology, education, publishing, and other sectors requiring advanced language skills and research expertise. With a diverse student body and a vibrant academic community, UCL provides an enriching environment for exploring the complexities of human language and advancing your professional development in the field of linguistics.

The MA introduces students to the core areas of the study of English Linguistics, including morphology, syntax, phonetics, phonology and prgamatics. The programme trains students to use library OPACS, specialised websites, discussion lists, and databases, among them the ICE-GB corpus, based at the Survey of English Usage in UCL English.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of three core components (90 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

Core modules

• English Grammar and Methodology
• Either English Corpus Linguistics or English Language in Use
• Research Methodology

Optional modules

Students take two optional modules. Different options are offered each year and have included:

• English Words
• History of the English Language
• Literary Linguistics
• Phonetics and Phonology of English

Dissertation/report

All MA Students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words. Students have access to the Survey of English Usage for this project.

Teaching and learning

The programme is taught through seminars and individual tutorials. Student assessment is through a portfolio of essays (two 2,000-word essays on English linguistics), two three-hour written papers and the dissertation. 

Applications are welcome from candidates who have at least a second-class Bachelor's degree in English Language or Literature from a UK university, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.
Some prior knowledge of English language studies (specifically English grammar) is expected for the programme.

The financing of the English Linguistics program at University College London (UCL) is structured to support both domestic and international students through a combination of tuition fees, scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's residency status, with UK/Home students paying a different rate compared to international students, reflecting the university’s funding policies. For the academic year 2023-2024, the tuition fee for UK/Home students enrolled in the undergraduate program was approximately £9,250 per year, while international students paid around £20,700 annually. These fees cover access to academic resources, library services, and participation in lectures and seminars.

UCL offers a range of scholarships and financial support schemes to help students finance their studies. These include merit-based scholarships awarded based on academic excellence, need-based bursaries aimed at reducing financial barriers, and subject-specific funding programs for linguistics students. For example, the UCL Excellence Scholarship offers partial tuition fee waivers to high-achieving students, while the UCL Access UCL scholarship supports students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Additionally, students can access government-funded student loans, which in the UK are provided by the Student Loans Company. These loans cover tuition fees and living costs, repayable after graduation based on income levels. International students are often encouraged to secure scholarships or sponsorships from their home countries or other external sources to support their financial needs.

UCL also provides guidance and support services to assist students in identifying suitable funding options, applying for scholarships, and managing finances during their studies. Some students participate in part-time work arrangements facilitated by the university, which adhere to visa regulations for international students. The university’s financial policies are designed to ensure affordability and access, promoting a diverse student body in the English Linguistics program.

Overall, the financing structure combines university resources, government support, scholarships, and work opportunities to enable students to pursue their studies without undue financial hardship. Given the high academic standards and reputation of UCL, students are encouraged to explore all available funding options early in the application process to secure the necessary financial support for the duration of their degree.

The BA in English Linguistics at University College London offers students a comprehensive study of the English language, its structure, history, and use. The programme provides a broad understanding of linguistic theories and methods, enabling students to analyze the complexities of English phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Throughout the course, students explore key topics such as language acquisition, dialectology, sociolinguistics, and language change, equipping them with critical skills applicable to various careers, including speech therapy, teaching, translation, and further academic research. The programme emphasizes empirical research methods, encouraging students to undertake independent investigations and develop analytical skills through coursework, seminars, and projects.

Students benefit from UCL's strong connections with linguistic research communities and its access to extensive language data resources. The curriculum is designed to foster a deep understanding of the nature of linguistic phenomena and their relevance to real-world language situations, including issues related to language variation, standardization, and language disorders. The programme often includes opportunities for students to engage with current linguistic debates and to participate in seminars led by leading scholars in the field. In addition, students may have options to undertake placements or collaborative projects with external organizations, enhancing their practical experience.

Graduates from this program can pursue careers in language education, lexicography, speech therapy, publishing, and language technology companies, among others. Many students choose to continue their academic journey by enrolling in master's and PhD programmes focused on specialized areas of linguistics. The programme is typically designed to be flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies towards specific interests such as cognitive linguistics, phonetics, or sociolinguistics. Overall, the UCL BA in English Linguistics provides a rigorous and engaging pathway for students passionate about understanding the intricacies of the English language and applying this knowledge in diverse professional contexts.