The Bachelor's Degree Programme in Linguistic Sciences at the University of Eastern Finland offers a comprehensive and in-depth study of human languages and their structures, functions, and social contexts. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about understanding the intricacies of language, communication, and linguistic diversity across different cultures and societies. Throughout the course of studies, students will explore various areas of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and sociolinguistics, gaining a broad and nuanced understanding of language systems and their usage. The programme emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for diverse careers in language technology, translation, language teaching, research, and communication consultancy. Students will develop skills in linguistic analysis, critical thinking, research methodology, and intercultural communication, which are essential in today’s globalized world. The curriculum includes lectures, seminars, practical exercises, and project work, fostering active learning and collaboration among students and faculty. Additionally, the programme offers opportunities for fieldwork, language learning, and internships, allowing students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. The University of Eastern Finland is committed to internationalisation, and students have access to a vibrant academic environment with opportunities for exchange programmes and collaboration with international partner institutions. Graduates from the Linguistic Sciences programme will be well-equipped to pursue further studies at the master's level or to enter the workforce in fields such as language technology, translation, editing, publishing, language research, and education. The programme prepares students not only to understand language structures but also to appreciate the cultural and social significance of language in human interaction and societal development. With its multidisciplinary approach and focus on both theory and practice, the Bachelor's Degree Programme in Linguistic Sciences offers a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the fascinating world of languages and develop valuable skills for a wide range of professional paths.

Courses common to all three sub-programmes (15 ECTS)

All students take the courses common to all three sub-programmes. These courses contain a considerable selection of basic courses in Linguistics and Language Technology. The list of courses is in the complete curriculum.

Main subject studies (40 ECTS)

Students are supposed to select compulsory courses according to their sub-programme:

Linguistics and Language Technology

The 40 credits are to be earned as follows, with an emphasis either on Linguistics or Language Technology:

• Linguistics Courses (10-20 ECTS)
• Language Technology Courses (10-20 ECTS)
• MA Seminar (5 ECTS)

Sociolinguistics: Language Contacts and Language Policy

• Foundations of Sociolinguistics, Language Contacts and Language Policy (Lecture courses + methodology seminar, 18 ECTS)
• Perspectives on language variation, contact, and policy in society, translation, and education (Advanced option courses, 17 ECTS)
• MA seminar (5 ECTS)

Translation Studies and Translation Technology

• Translation process
• Translation Studies and its methodology
• Corpora in Translation Studies
• Language technology and translation technology
• Translation technology workshops

Elective Studies (25 ECTS)

Elective studies include courses that serve to deepen students' expertise and/or promote to the topic of the Master's thesis. They can be chosen from the two other sub-programmes of the MDP in Linguistic Sciences, from other international study programmes or they can be general knowledge courses. Elective studies vary according to the sub-programme and the students' interests:

• Linguistics and Language Technology
  In addition to courses offered by other sub-programmes of the MDP in Linguistic Sciences, the students may choose such general knowledge/interest courses as English Academic Writing (3 ECTS) and Elementary Finnish (5 ECTS).
• Sociolinguistics: Language Contacts and Language Policy
  In addition to courses offered by other sub-programmes of the MDP in Linguistic Sciences, the students may choose courses in other international study programmes in Sociology, Human Geography or History, or such general knowledge/interest courses as English Academic Writing (3 ECTS) and Elementary Finnish (5 ECTS).
• Translation Studies and Translation Technology
  In addition to courses offered by other sub-programmes of the MDP in Linguistic Sciences, the students may choose such general knowledge/interest courses as English Academic Writing (3 ECTS) and Elementary Finnish

MA thesis (40 ECTS)

A supervised thesis of circa 60 to 80 pages written on a topic within the themes of the selected sub-programme.

Admission Requirements

• A recognized BA (or MA) degree in the area of linguistics, language studies or translation studies.
• English proficiency. Minimum requirements for the language skills verified through the official language tests are as follows:
  • IELTS (Academic): 7.0/6.5 in writing
  • TOEFL PBT: 600/5 in writing
  • TOEFL iBT: 100/24 in writing
  • PTE (Academic): 68

Applicants who have completed their secondary education or BA degree in English in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom or the United States, do not have to take a language test.

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

Along with the introduction of tuition fees, UEF will provide an attractive scholarship scheme for 50% of the students admitted to the programme. The scholarship will consist of 80-100% exemption from the tuition fees. A scholarship will be awarded for two academic years, however obtaining the scholarship for the second year will be conditioned by the progress of student's studies and his/her general academic performance during the first study year.

Application period for the scholarship is the same as for the admission: 1.12.2016-13.1.2017.

The Philosophical Faculty may, in some cases, award an additional scholarship helping to cover student's living expenses in Finland, which may apply to the both student groups: from EU and non EU/EEA countries. The student shall apply for the financial aid from the faculty during the application period by submitting a separate letter as an application enclosure.

Notifications concerning scholarships and other forms of additional financial support will be sent to the admitted students together with the official acceptance letter.

The Bachelor’s degree program in Linguistic Sciences at the University of Eastern Finland offers students a comprehensive introduction to the scientific study of language. The program focuses on various aspects of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and language evolution. Students will explore the structure and function of languages, language acquisition, and language change over time. The curriculum also emphasizes the importance of linguistic diversity and the social aspects of language use, preparing graduates for careers in research, education, translation, language technology, and consultancy. Throughout the program, students develop strong analytical, critical thinking, and research skills, supported by courses that include both theoretical lectures and practical language exercises. The program may include opportunities for specialization in areas such as phonetics, syntax, language acquisition, or language technology, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. As part of their studies, students might participate in research projects, attend seminars, and collaborate with faculty on linguistic research, gaining valuable experience in scientific investigation and academic writing. The University of Eastern Finland is known for its international outlook and multicultural environment, providing students with the opportunity to study and analyze languages in a global context. The program is designed to foster a deep understanding of language as a fundamental aspect of human communication and culture, equipping students with the skills needed for diverse professional pathways or advanced studies in linguistics or related disciplines. Graduates will be capable of applying linguistic theories to real-world language challenges, engaging in cross-cultural communication, and contributing to language policy and planning initiatives. The degree typically takes three years to complete, leading to a Bachelor's degree, with potential pathways for further specialization or postgraduate studies. The university’s strong emphasis on research-based teaching and international collaboration ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the global job market in fields related to language and communication.