Linguistics

The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at University College London offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the scientific study of language. This highly regarded programme is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the core areas of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Throughout the course, students will engage with contemporary linguistic theories and methodologies, developing analytical skills essential for understanding the structure and function of language across different contexts and languages. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, empirical research, and the application of linguistic knowledge to real-world issues such as language acquisition, language change, sociolinguistics, and language technology.

Students will have the opportunity to examine diverse language phenomena and their cognitive, social, and cultural implications. The curriculum includes modules that explore language production and perception, the historical development of languages, and the relationships between language and society. Additionally, students can benefit from special modules on computational linguistics and language processing, preparing them for careers in AI, speech recognition, and language technology industries. The programme adopts a multidisciplinary approach, incorporating insights from psychology, anthropology, computer science, and philosophy, offering a well-rounded perspective on language as a fundamental aspect of human experience.

Numerous practical activities, including seminars, workshops, and research projects, are integral to the learning process, fostering collaboration and hands-on experience. Students are encouraged to undertake independent research, often culminating in a dissertation that demonstrates their ability to conduct original linguistic inquiry. The university's vibrant academic environment provides access to state-of-the-art facilities, linguistic corpora, and experimental tools, supporting advanced research activities. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in academia, education, information technology, and language consulting, or to pursue postgraduate studies in linguistics or related fields. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical understanding and empirical skills, the Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at UCL prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the scientific study of language and its applications in various professional domains.

Students gain knowledge and understanding of current research in theoretical linguistics 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 four core modules (105 credits) one optional module (15 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

Core Modules

• Syntax
• Semantics and Pragmatics
• Phonetics and Phonology
• Foundations of Linguistics

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.

English Language Requirements

If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.

The English language level for this programme is: Good

Equivalent qualifications for Russia:

The award of any of the following from a recognised institution:

• 5 year Specialist Diploma with an overall mark of 4.5/5.0
• Bachelor's degree with an overall mark of 4.5/5.0

Alternative qualifications

Medical / Dental / Pharmacy degree; Doctorate.

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

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver.

There is a number of scholarships:

• Amelia Zollner IPPR/UCL Internship Award
• Byron Fellowship
• Denys Holland Scholarship
• DSC Award (Surina Narula Travel Award)
• Faculty Undergraduate Scholarship for Excellence
• Inoue Masaru Scholarship
• Jackson Lewis Scholarship
• Keith Wightman Scholarship
• Old Students Association (OSA) Trust Scholarship
• UPCH Progression Scholarships
• UPCSE Progression Scholarships
• UWC - IOB United World Colleges International Outreach Bursary

Many linguistics graduates from UCL carry on studying linguistics at MPhil/PhD level with a view to pursuing an academic career. Others go on to teach languages, especially English (as a first or foreign language) or embark on a range of other careers, from law, media, computing and speech and language therapy to all aspects of commerce and industry.