Language Sciences with specialisation in Language Development

"Welcome to the MSc in Language Sciences with specialization in Language Development at University College London, a comprehensive program designed for students passionate about exploring the complex processes behind language acquisition, development, and evolution. This innovative course combines theoretical foundations with empirical research methods, providing students with a deep understanding of how humans acquire and develop language across different stages of life and diverse contexts. Throughout the program, students will investigate various aspects of language development, including phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatic aspects, with an emphasis on developmental trajectories in children, second language acquisition, and linguistic diversity. The curriculum integrates the latest research in psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics, and cognitive science to ensure students gain a multidisciplinary perspective on language development processes.

Students will engage in hands-on learning through seminars, laboratory work, and research projects, enabling them to collect, analyze, and interpret linguistic data. The program also emphasizes the application of quantitative and qualitative research methods, preparing graduates for careers in academia, speech therapy, language assessment, or related fields. Faculty members are leading experts in linguistics, cognitive science, and speech sciences, offering personalized supervision and mentorship throughout the course. The program benefits from UCL’s state-of-the-art research facilities, including dedicated labs for language processing and developmental studies. Graduates from this program will be equipped with critical thinking, research skills, and a profound understanding of language development mechanisms, making them well-positioned for further academic pursuits or professional roles in language education, clinical practice, or linguistic research. Join us to deepen your insight into the fascinating processes that shape human language and contribute to advancements in linguistics and communication sciences."

Students take a core set of modules building a foundation to study current issues and research in the language sciences, specialising in language development. In selecting the modules for their specialisation, students will be able to take full advantage of the breadth of expertise in language research in the UCL Division of Psychology & Language Sciences.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of two mandatory modules (45 credits), three specialisation modules (45 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a research project (60 credits).

Mandatory modules

• Introduction to the Brain and Imaging the Brain
• Research Methods: Principles, Skills and Applications
• Students select three specialisation modules from those below:
• Developmental Language Disorders and Cognitive Neuroscience
• Developmental Disorders of Language, Learning and Cognition
• Development of Speech Perception and Production
• Language Acquisition
• Introduction to Children's Language Development
• Semantic and Pragmatic Development

Optional modules

Students select two modules from all those offered within UCL Psychology and Language Sciences, subject to availability and agreement with the Programme Director. A list of possible options is listed below:

• Neuroscience of Language
• Deafness - Cognition and language
• Speech Processing
• Conversation Analysis
• Second Language Speech Learning
• Phonetic Theory
• Phonetic Theory
• Foundations of Linguistics
• Issues in Pragmatics
• Current Issues in Syntax
• Stuttering

Not all modules will run every year, some modules may require a minimum number of registered students.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in a language-related area such as linguistics, speech sciences, English language, psychology, cognitive science, or a cognate discipline.

Up to four departmental scholarships are available. All candidates holding an offer of admission by 1 June (for year of entry) will be considered based on academic merit. There is no need to make a separate application for these opportunities.

The MSc in Language Sciences with specialisation in Language Development at University College London is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms underlying language acquisition, processing, and development. This programme combines theoretical insights from linguistics, psychology, neuroscience, and cognitive science to explore how language is learned and used across different contexts and populations. It aims to prepare graduates for careers in research, education, language therapy, and related fields by equipping them with both foundational knowledge and practical skills. The curriculum typically includes core modules on linguistic theory, developmental processes, and research methods, along with elective options allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests such as bilingualism, language disorders, or computational linguistics. The programme emphasizes research excellence and often involves students in ongoing research projects, encouraging critical thinking and empirical skills. The course is suitable for individuals with backgrounds in linguistics, psychology, education, or related disciplines who wish to deepen their understanding of language development. Studying at UCL also provides access to extensive resources, including specialized laboratories, libraries, and research centers dedicated to language sciences. Graduates of this programme are well-positioned to pursue doctoral research or enter professional fields that require advanced knowledge of language development and cognition. The programme's structure typically spans one year full-time study, with options for part-time study. Admission requirements generally include a relevant undergraduate degree and a strong interest in language sciences. UCL's multidisciplinary approach and emphasis on research and practical application make this programme a prestigious choice for aspiring linguists and cognitive scientists.