Linguistics

The undergraduate program in Linguistics at Stanford University offers students an exceptional opportunity to explore the scientific study of language, focusing on understanding the structure, use, and evolution of human language. This comprehensive program integrates theoretical foundations with practical applications, providing students with a well-rounded education in various subfields such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and language acquisition. Students are encouraged to engage in rigorous linguistic research, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deep appreciation for the diversity and complexity of languages around the world. The program's interdisciplinary approach allows students to incorporate insights from cognitive science, computer science, anthropology, and psychology, preparing them for careers in academia, technology, education, and language policy. Coursework is designed to foster analytical skills and foster innovative approaches to understanding language phenomena. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and resources, enabling them to conduct empirical research and participate in cutting-edge projects. Additionally, Stanford’s distinguished faculty members, many of whom are leading experts in their fields, mentor students through research opportunities, seminars, and collaborations. The program also emphasizes practical language skills and offers opportunities for fieldwork, internships, and participation in language documentation projects. Graduates of the Stanford Linguistics program are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute to fields such as artificial intelligence, speech recognition, language technology, and linguistic theory. The program prepares students not only for advanced study and research but also for diverse careers that require a nuanced understanding of language structure and function. Overall, Stanford’s Linguistics program provides an immersive educational experience that combines rigorous academic training with opportunities for innovative research, fostering the next generation of linguists and language scientists.

Core Requirements

Coursework:  Ph.D. students must satisfy a basic course requirement that ensures they achieve breadth across the different areas of linguistics, while setting a foundation for their future research.  There is considerable flexibility in how a student meets this requirement, so that it can be tailored to the student's background and interests.  The department also delineates a small set of other required courses.  Beyond these courses, students are free to choose coursework in Linguistics or related departments and are also encouraged to take directed reading or research courses with individual faculty members, where appropriate.

Qualifying papers:  Each student must complete two substantial qualifying research papers in different subfields of linguistics, one in the second year and one in the third year.  These papers are intended to provide students with experience in carrying out independent, original research projects before embarking on the dissertation. 

Language:  Each student must demonstrate explicit, in-depth knowledge of the structure of at least one language (normally neither the candidate's native language nor English) by writing a research paper on that language.  The language used to satisfy this requirement must be chosen in consultation with the Graduate Studies Advisor, and the paper must be completed by the end of the third year of graduate study.  The candidacy proposal must include a realistic plan for completing the requirement.

Dissertation:  Each student must complete a doctoral dissertation that demonstrates the ability to complete a substantial piece of original research work, to articulate the results of this work in a manner appropriate for the linguistics community, and to demonstrate the significance of the work in the context of the general field of linguistics.  The student works with a reading committee whose members provide feedback and guidance as the student carries out the dissertation research; as the dissertation progresses, the committee members read and critique drafts of the work.  

Teaching Requirements

Each student serves as a teaching assistant for three courses, spread over the second, third, and fourth years of study.  These courses generally include at least one course in the student’s main area of expertise.  Occasionally, more advanced students may be given the opportunity to teach their own course, if this accords with the department’s curricular needs.

Requirements

1.  Application Form

The application form is completed online through the University Graduate Admissions website.

2.  Application Fee

There is an application fee of $125.  Fee waivers are available for eligible students.

3.  Statement of Purpose

Submitted as part of the online application, the statement of purpose should be designed as a narrative presentation of yourself.  Your statement should thoughtfully and clearly convey (1) what you have accomplished thus far in linguistics or in related fields, (2) why you are applying for a Ph.D. program in Linguistics (i.e. why you want to study linguistics and why you need a Ph.D. to achieve your goals), (3) why Stanford is the place you want to carry out your studies, and (4) what your research interests in linguistics are, or if they are not yet defined, what the possibilities might be.  Don’t use your statement to repeat information that we will learn from other parts of your application, such as your transcript, but do highlight things you think are particularly important, and do feel free to explain any things in your other materials that you are less proud of.  Caution:  avoid telling us too much about your childhood and your fascination with language.

4.  Graduate Record Examination (GRE)

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) General Test is required of all applicants.  Official scores from a test taken within the last 5 years must be sent from ETS to Stanford using the Institution Code 4704.  No minimum GRE score is required to apply.

5.  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)

The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) is required of all applicants whose first language is not English.   Official scores from a test taken within the last 18 months must be sent from ETS to Stanford using the Institution Code 4704.  The University sets the minimum TOEFL score requirements which can be found on the University Graduate Admissions website.

The Department of Linguistics does not require the Test of Spoken English (TSE).  

6.  Official Transcripts

Transcripts are required from all prior college level schools attended for at least one year.  A scanned copy of the official transcript is submitted as part of the online application.  Please do not mail hard copy transcripts to the department at the time of application.  We will contact you at a later date if we need an official transcript; if you are contacted, you will be asked to provide two hard copies of your official transcript or to have an electronic transcript sent directly to linguistics@stanford.edu by your degree granting institution.   

7.  Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required.  Recommenders submit their letters through the online system.  In deciding whom to ask for letters of recommendation, give preference to people who have taught you and/or directed your research activities, people who know you and your work well, and/or people who know what linguistics is and who understand what you’re getting into.

8.  Writing Sample

A writing sample is required, preferably on a linguistics topic, but in any case something that displays your research abilities and writing skills.  The writing sample is also submitted with the online application.  The purpose of the writing sample is to give a sense of your ability to do research, how you might approach a problem and work through it; that is, it should convey not only the way you write but the way you work and think.  Send a paper that you are proud of.  If possible, this should be a paper in Linguistics or in a related discipline (such as logic or anthropology).  The paper does not need to be lengthy; approximately 10 to 15 pages is standard.  If you have a B.A. or M.A. thesis, this also would be appropriate, but please designate no more than 25 pages that the Admissions Committee should focus on.

Financing studies for the Linguistics program at Stanford University are designed to ensure that all qualified students have access to the necessary resources to complete their degrees without financial hardship. Stanford University offers a comprehensive range of funding options, including scholarships, fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and loans. The university is committed to meeting the demonstrated financial need of all admitted students through its need-based financial aid programs. For undergraduate students, Stanford's Admission Office assesses financial need as part of the application process, and admitted students are typically offered a financial aid package that may include grants, which do not have to be repaid, as well as loans and work-study opportunities. Graduate students in the Linguistics program can apply for specialized fellowships and teaching or research assistantships that provide stipends and tuition remission. Many of these positions are highly competitive and are awarded based on academic merit and research potential. Stanford also partners with external organizations to offer additional scholarships and funding sources for graduate students. Applicants are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Stanford's own financial aid application to determine eligibility for institutional aid. The university’s Financial Aid Office provides guidance and support throughout the application process, and students are advised to submit all required documentation by specified deadlines to secure funding. Overall, Stanford University prioritizes affordable access to its Linguistics program, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent talented students from pursuing their academic interests in linguistics and related fields.

The Stanford University Linguistics program offers an in-depth exploration of language structure, function, and use across a diverse range of topics. Students engage with core areas such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, gaining a comprehensive understanding of how human languages are structured and processed. The curriculum combines theoretical frameworks with empirical research, enabling students to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from psychology, anthropology, computer science, and cognitive science, reflecting Stanford’s commitment to fostering innovative research. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and participate in faculty-led research projects, seminars, and workshops that highlight current advancements in the field. The program also encourages students to explore computational linguistics and language technology, preparing them for careers in academia, industry, or government. Graduates of the program are well-equipped for professions including linguistic research, speech and language pathology, natural language processing, artificial intelligence, and language education. The program offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees, with electives allowing students to tailor their studies to specific interests such as language acquisition, dialectology, or computational methods. Collaboration with other departments, such as Computer Science and Psychology, provides a multidisciplinary environment that enhances research opportunities and academic growth. The faculty comprises renowned linguists recognized for their contributions to the field, ensuring students receive mentorship and guidance from leading experts. Overall, the Stanford Linguistics program prepares students to understand the complexities of human language and to contribute to advancing linguistic knowledge and technology.