Language Sciences with specialisation in Linguistics with Neuroscience

This specialisation is designed for students with a background in linguistics who are interested in applying their knowledge in understanding language impairments in individuals with brain damage and/or carrying out neuroscientific research on language processing, or in pursuing theoretical linguistics research using psychological science methods, such as eye-tracking and imaging.

Students take a set of core modules as a foundation to one of the following areas of linguistics: phonology, syntax, semantics-pragmatics. 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 three core modules (60 credits), two specialisation modules (30 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a research project (60 credits).

Core modules

• Introduction to the Brain and Imaging the Brain
• Neuroscience of Language
• Research Methods: Principles, Skills and Applications
• Students select two specialisation modules from one of these core areas:
• Phonology
• Semantics-Pragmatics
• Syntax

Optional modules

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

• Deafness: Cognition of Language
• Developmental Language Disorders and Cognitive Neuroscience
• Language Acquisition
• Rehabilitation of Acquired Neurogenic Communication Difficulties
• Seminar in Neurolinguistics

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

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project in an area of Language Science which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, small-group teaching and a virtual learning environment. Some modules also involve workshops or practical classes. Student performance is assessed through coursework, examinations and the research project.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard in linguistics or linguistics-related 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.

It is strongly recommended that applications are submitted no later than four weeks before this deadline.