Linguistics with a specialisation in Phonology

The Linguistics MA with specialisation in Phonology is a research-oriented programme designed for students looking for concentrated study in phonology, with a focus on theoretically-driven empirical research. Students will use typological comparison, data collection, experimental methods, or modelling techniques and will receive extensive training in research methods and the scholarly presentation of ideas.

Students gain knowledge and understanding of current research in phonology and are prepared for independent research. On completion of the programme, they will be able to formulate appropriate research questions, find and evaluate relevant literature, develop and test new hypotheses, and produce cogent, structured and professionally presented reports.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of five pathway modules (60 credits), three optional modules (30 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

Pathway modules

• Students select three from the list below:
• Intermediate Phonetics and Phonology A
• Intermediate Phonetics and Phonology B
• Advanced Phonology Theory A
• Advanced Phonology Theory B
• In conjunction with the Programme Co-ordinator, students select two from a list which includes the following:
• Phonetic Theory
• Phonology of English
• Morphology
• Intermediate Generative Grammar A
• Current Issues in Syntax
• Readings in Syntax

Optional modules

A further three modules are selected, either from the list of non-compulsory core modules above or from the list of optional modules below:

• Advanced Semantic Theory
• Advanced Semantic Theory B
• Animal Communication and the Human Language
• Communication and Human Language
• Interfaces
• Issues in Pragmatics
• Language Acquisition
• Neurolinguistics
• Pragmatic Theory
• Semantic-Pragmatic Development
• Semantics Research Seminar
• Sociolinguistics
• Stuttering
• The Linguistics of Sign Languages
• Topics in Semantics and Pragmatics
• Or any statistical training outside the department

Dissertation/report

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

Teaching and learning

The teaching and assessment of this programme is strongly research-oriented. It is delivered through a combination of lectures, small-group teaching and a virtual learning environment. Some modules also involve workshops or practical classes. Assessment is through take-home and unseen examination, essays, presentations, assignments and the dissertation.

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