Linguistics

The Bachelor's degree program in Linguistics at the University of Freiburg offers students an comprehensive and in-depth exploration of human language in all its facets. Designed to provide a solid foundation in linguistic theory, methodology, and empirical research, this program prepares graduates for diverse careers in language technology, education, translation, and research. The curriculum covers core areas such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, allowing students to understand the structure and function of languages across different linguistic levels. Additionally, students have opportunities to study language variation and change, psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics, and sociolinguistics, gaining insights into how language operates within societal and cognitive contexts. The program emphasizes practical skills, including data collection and analysis, linguistic software application, and critical thinking about language phenomena. The faculty at the University of Freiburg fosters an international and interdisciplinary learning environment, encouraging students to engage in research projects, seminars, and workshops. Practical experience is integrated through internships and collaborative research initiatives, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for careers in academia, language technology, or applied fields such as speech therapy, language teaching, and language policy. The program is distinguished by its innovative approach to linguistic studies and its commitment to fostering linguistic diversity and multilingualism. Graduates will be prepared to contribute to understanding the complexities of human language and to apply their knowledge to real-world linguistic challenges. With its academic rigor and practical orientation, the Linguistics program at the University of Freiburg helps students develop analytical skills, intercultural competence, and a deep appreciation for linguistic diversity, making it a prominent choice for students interested in the scientific study of language.

Educational organisation

For more detailed information, see:
http://portal.uni-freiburg.de/germanistik/studium/studiengang/master/MEL/master-el
http://paul.igl.uni-freiburg.de/MEL/en/

Study abroad unit(s)

The integration of a study abroad unit is possible.

Forms of assessment

Written exams (papers), Master's thesis, final oral examination

Course objectives

Graduates of the Master's programme in Linguistics/Linguistik are familiar with different theoretical approaches to the study of language and have learned to critically assess and compare these approaches. They have acquired a deep knowledge of the structure, history and use of (European) languages and their non-standard varieties from a comparative and typological perspective. They have gained a sophisticated understanding of the language-external (social, political) conditions under which communication takes place. Graduates of the programme are able to design, implement and present linguistic research according to the highest professional standards. They have enhanced their practical language skills in up to three European languages and have gained hands-on experience of empirical linguistic research abroad.

Language requirements

German: CEFR C1, English: CEFR C1

Required DSH / TestDaF

Yes

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in linguistics or philology with a focus area in linguistics

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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

Enrolment fees

Approx. 150 EUR per semester
The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in the Freiburg area.

Costs of living

Participants must make sure in good time that sufficient funds are available to finance their participation in a course of study. The average cost of living in Freiburg for one month is currently approx. 800-900 EUR. Some details:

• Student accommodation costs approx. 280-450 EUR (monthly).
• Private expenses amount to around 350 EUR (monthly).
• Health insurance is available for approx. 45-90 EUR (monthly).
• Transport: A special student fare for regional transport costs approx. 89 EUR (per semester).

Services and support for international students

In addition to services and support offered by each coordinator of a course of study, the International Office organises a special four-day orientation session, which generally takes place two weeks before the beginning of the semester. This orientation session includes information about various aspects of everyday life (e.g. accommodation, work opportunities, etc.), presentations and visits to important institutions (e.g. the university library), and opportunities for socialising with other international students. During the semester, the "International Club", coordinated by the Studentenwerk (students' social services), offers a great variety of events, trips, and services for international students in cooperation with the International Office. Furthermore, the UNIKOS team, a group of international students who have been studying at Freiburg University for some time, give practical advice and can be approached for help in several languages.

Accommodation

As Freiburg is an attractive city, finding a suitable place to live can take a little time. Only a small number of students can be offered a room in a student dormitory. The Studentenwerk (students' social services) is in charge of the student dormitories. Applicants must expect a waiting period. In addition to these dormitories, several independent dormitories are listed on the university website. The Studentenwerk also offers a list of available private rooms and the International Office can be contacted for further assistance in finding accommodation (http://www.international.uni-freiburg.de).