Degree Programme in Language Sciences with Specialization in English

The Programme in Language Sciences with Specialization in English at Stockholm University offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the English language through the lens of linguistic theory, analysis, and research. Designed for those passionate about languages and their complexities, this programme provides a solid foundation in various linguistic disciplines such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, with a particular focus on the English language. Students will explore how language functions in everyday communication, examines its structure, and investigates its social and cultural contexts. The programme emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, enabling students to analyze language data critically, understand language variation and change, and develop insights into language's role in society. Throughout the studies, students will engage in various methods of linguistic research, including qualitative and quantitative approaches, and utilize modern tools and technologies used in language analysis. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, and hands-on research projects, fostering a stimulating academic environment where students can collaborate and deepen their understanding through discussion and experimentation. The specialization in English prepares graduates for a variety of future careers, including linguistics research, language teaching, translation, editing, and roles in the fields of technology, communication, and media. The programme also aims to develop transferable skills such as analytical thinking, problem-solving, and clear written and verbal communication, all of which are highly valued in today’s globalized job market. Students benefit from the university's strong connections with academic and professional communities, gaining opportunities for internships, collaborative projects, and participation in conferences. Whether aiming for further academic study or entering the workforce, graduates of this programme will have a thorough knowledge of English language sciences combined with a versatile skill set to meet current and future challenges in language-related fields.

Program structure
This programme constitutes four semesters of full-time studies and consists of both mandatory and optional
courses, of which at least 60 Higher Education Credits (HECs) are in the main field of study/specialisation. The
programme has eleven main fields of study/specialisations: General Linguistics, Ancient Greek, English,
Philosophy, French, Italian, Portuguese, Spanish, Slavic Languages, Language Education, and Bilingualism.
Each semester generally comprises four course units of 7.5 HECs.

The semester is divided into two equal parts so that two course units of 7.5 HECs are taken in parallel during each half of the semester. The degree project constitutes one semester's work of 30 HECs, which in practice may be spread across several semesters.

The programme starts with two courses that are mandatory for every main field of study/specialisation: "Langauge in Use" and "Scientific Methods and Research Ethics"; and finishes with a joint essay seminar during the fourth semester. Other joint courses in the programme are "English for Academic Research" and "Computational Linguistics", both given during the third semester. Additionally, each main field of study/specialisation has two mandatory courses carrying a total of 15 HECs.

Of the remaining 45 HECs, at least 15 HECs must be taken within the main field of study/specialisation and 15 HECs within another main field of study/specialisation.

Courses are selected in consultation with the course coordinator from the selection of courses common to the
included departments, or from the university's other courses. These courses should mainly be at the second
cycle (Master's). All eleven main fields of study/specialisations lead to a Degree of Master's of 120 HECs.

The Bachelor’s programme in Language Sciences with Specialization in English at Stockholm University requires applicants to possess a completed upper secondary education (gymnasium) with eligibility for university studies. Specific entrance requirements include proficiency in English corresponding to the course English B (or equivalent). Prospective students should demonstrate strong skills in English language and literature, as well as foundational knowledge in linguistics and language analysis. The programme is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the English language, its structure, history, and usage in various contexts. Applicants are generally evaluated based on their academic transcripts, motivation letter, and, where applicable, relevant work or study experience. The programme's curriculum comprises compulsory courses in theoretical and practical linguistics, phonetics, syntax, semantics, and historical language development. Students are expected to complete core courses in research methodology and academic writing to prepare for independent projects. Elective courses offer specialization areas such as sociolinguistics, language acquisition, and pragmatics. To successfully complete the programme, students need to earn a stipulated number of credits, including a final thesis project that demonstrates their analytical and research skills. The programme emphasizes active participation in seminars, workshops, and discussions, fostering critical thinking and communication abilities essential for careers in language teaching, translation, publishing, or further academic pursuits. The university also values students’ motivation and interest in exploring the complexities of the English language and its role in contemporary society. Additional requirements such as interviews or specific subject prerequisites may apply for certain admissions cycles. Applicants are advised to consult the official Stockholm University admissions guidelines for detailed criteria, application deadlines, and documentation. The programme aims to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills, enabling them to pursue careers in academia, language technology, media, or international organizations, or to continue to master's level studies in related fields.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Language Sciences with Specialization in English programme at Stockholm University is primarily supported through a combination of various funding sources. Students pursuing this degree may be eligible for Swedish government student aid, known as CSN (Centrala studiestödsnämnden), which provides financial support in the form of grants and loans. International students from the European Union or EEA countries often have access to similar financial aid options, though these may vary depending on bilateral agreements and specific eligibility criteria.

Tuition fees are applicable to non-EU/EEA students, and these fees are set annually by Stockholm University. The fee structure includes tuition costs for the entire programme, which students are expected to pay either upfront or through approved installment plans. Scholarships are also available for international students, especially those demonstrating academic excellence or needing financial assistance. These scholarships are awarded based on merit and often cover partial or full tuition fees, thereby alleviating the financial burden on students.

In addition to national and international financial aid options, students may seek external funding through various organizations, foundations, or sponsors that support education in the humanities and language sciences. Some students may also supplement their finances through part-time work, provided it complies with residence permit regulations and does not interfere with their studies. The university has partnerships with different institutions and organizations that occasionally offer work opportunities, internships, or research assistant positions, which can contribute to students’ financial stability.

The university provides resources and guidance to help students navigate available financial aid options, application procedures, and deadlines. Detailed information on financing, scholarships, and application criteria can typically be found on the Stockholm University website and through the university’s student support services. Overall, the financing structure aims to make high-quality education accessible to both domestic and international students, ensuring that financial considerations do not hinder academic success.

The Bachelor’s programme in Language Sciences with Specialization in English at Stockholm University offers students an in-depth understanding of the English language from a linguistic perspective. The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive knowledge of language structure, usage, and variation, exploring areas such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. This programme also emphasizes the social and cultural aspects of language, including language development, change, and the relationship between language and society. Students will develop critical skills in linguistic analysis, research methodology, and academic writing, preparing them for careers in education, communication, publishing, translation, or further studies in linguistics or related fields.

Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to engage actively with both theoretical concepts and practical applications. They will participate in seminars, workshops, and project work that foster analytical thinking and collaborative problem-solving. The program aims to enhance students’ language awareness and their ability to analyze language in context, which is crucial for professions involving language teaching, editing, or language policy development. The special focus on English enables students to develop advanced competence in understanding linguistic phenomena specific to the English language, including regional dialects, language acquisition, and language variation.

In addition, the programme integrates interdisciplinary perspectives, linking linguistics to psychology, anthropology, and computer science, particularly in fields like corpus linguistics, language technology, and artificial intelligence applications for language processing. Students may have opportunities to participate in internships or research projects, gaining practical experience and insights into current challenges and innovations in language sciences. The programme prepares graduates for further academic pursuits, including master's and doctoral studies, or for entering the workforce in roles that require strong linguistic skills and cultural literacy. Graduates will emerge with a nuanced understanding of the complexities of the English language and the skills needed to analyze and apply linguistic knowledge in various professional contexts.