English Linguistics

The Bachelor of Arts in English Linguistics at the University of Zurich offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the structure, history, and usage of the English language. This program is designed to explore the linguistic principles that underpin English, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Students will also examine the social, cultural, and historical contexts in which English has developed and is now used worldwide. Through coursework, students gain critical analytical skills and a nuanced appreciation of language variation, dialects, and language change over time. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for careers in education, translation, linguistics research, communication, and related fields. Additionally, students have the opportunity to engage with interdisciplinary topics such as cognitive linguistics, language acquisition, and computational linguistics. Practical skills development is enhanced through various seminars, projects, and possible internships, equipping students with robust competencies in research, data analysis, and effective communication. The university provides a stimulating academic environment with access to renowned faculty, extensive resources, and research centers dedicated to linguistics and language studies. The curriculum encourages international perspectives and intercultural communication, reflecting the global significance of the English language. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to pursue advanced studies or to enter professional fields where linguistic expertise is in demand. The program fosters critical thinking, analytical abilities, and a deep appreciation for the complexity and richness of the English language, preparing students to contribute thoughtfully and innovatively to the field of linguistics and beyond.

• 90 and 75 ECTS majors: a Bachelor degree with at least 60 ECTS in English 
• 30 and 15 ECTS minors:  a Bachelor degree with at least 30 ECTS in English 
• Proof of Competence in the English Language. IELTS 7.0, TOEFL iBT 100
• Admission to a Master’s degree program generally requires a Bachelor’s degree with a total of 180 ECTS credits from a university recognized by the University of Zurich.

The University of Zurich offers various financing options for students enrolled in the English Linguistics degree program. Tuition fees are determined based on the student's residency status, with Swiss and EU/EFTA students typically paying lower fees compared to international students from other regions. For the standard Bachelor's degree in English Linguistics, the annual tuition fee for Swiss and EU/EFTA students is approximately CHF 1,000 to CHF 1,500, while non-European students may pay around CHF 1,500 to CHF 2,500 per academic year. These fees are subject to change and should be verified annually through official university sources.

In addition to tuition fees, students should consider costs for semester contributions, which include public transportation, student unions, and other administrative fees, generally amounting to about CHF 300 to CHF 500 per semester. Living expenses in Zurich are relatively high; students should budget for accommodation, which can range from CHF 700 to CHF 1,200 per month, depending on whether they choose shared housing, dormitories, or private apartments. Food, study materials, health insurance, and personal expenses should also be factored into the overall budget, totaling an estimated CHF 1,200 to CHF 1,500 per month.

Funding opportunities are available through several channels. Merit-based scholarships are provided by the university for outstanding students, potentially covering partial or full tuition fees. Furthermore, students from Switzerland and the EU/EFTA can apply for government student loans or grants designed to support higher education costs. International students from outside these regions are encouraged to seek scholarships from their home countries or from international organizations that support students studying abroad. Additionally, part-time work opportunities are accessible in Zurich, allowing students to earn income while studying, although working hours may be limited by visa regulations.

The university also offers financial advising services that assist students in exploring available funding sources, managing personal budgets, and planning for their studies financially. It is recommended that prospective students contact the university’s financial aid office early to ensure they are informed about application deadlines, eligibility criteria, and specific scholarship programs. Overall, the cost of studying English Linguistics at the University of Zurich can be managed through a combination of university scholarships, government support, part-time employment, and personal savings. Students are advised to prepare a detailed financial plan before beginning their studies to ensure they can cover all necessary expenses comfortably throughout the duration of the program.

Expenses

Living expenses depend very much on the individual student. These figures should therefore be regarded as a guideline only (in CHF): 

The expected minimum cost of living for students therefore comes to a total of CHF 1,750 per month. Course fees come to around CHF 770 per semester.