English Linguistics

The English Linguistics MA provides students with the theoretical and practical knowledge needed to describe modern English, together with appropriate training in academic writing, linguistic argumentation and research methods. Students have access to the Survey of English Usage, an unparalleled resource for research into grammatical repertoire.

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.