The Linguistics with a specialisation in Syntax MA is a research-oriented programme designed for students looking for a concentrated, advanced course in theoretical syntax, couched broadly within the Principles and Parameters approach to syntax and its offshoot: the Minimalist Program.
Key Information
Programme starts
September
Modes and duration
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Entry requirements
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
Further information can be found on our page.
International students
Country-specific information, including details of when Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the .
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See below for short videos on studying Linguistics and Language Sciences at Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê and a guided tour of Chandler House, home of Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê Linguistics:
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Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê Language Sciences – Chandler House Tour
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Further information on the degree programme can be found here:
- Context
Why study this degree at Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê?
The Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê Division ofÌýPsychology & Language Sciences undertakes world-leading research and teaching in linguistics, language, mind, and behaviour. More specifically, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê Linguistics is one of the leading departments for research in theoretical linguistics in the UK and its staff include world-leaders in theoretical syntax, semantics, pragmatics, phonology, and experimental linguistics.
Our work attracts staff and students from around the world. Together they create an outstanding and vibrant environment, taking advantage of cutting-edge resources such as a behavioural neuroscience laboratory, a centre for brain imaging, and extensive laboratories for research in speech and language, perception, cognition, and communication.
Our world-class research is characterised by a tight integration of theoretical and experimental work spanning the full width of the linguistic enterprise and forms the bedrock of the department’s eminent reputation which is also reflected in other markers of excellence such as its editorial involvement with top journals in the field.
Department: Division of Psychology & Language Sciences
Student / staff ratios › 181 staff including 173 postdocs › 780 taught students › 440 research students
Research Excellence Framework (REF)
The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.
In the UK’s 2021 Research Excellence Framework, as part of the Faculty Unit of Assessment, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê Psychology and Language Science’s Research Environment ranked equal First in the UK. Additionally, 92% of our research was graded 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’).
Learn more about the scope of Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.
- Content and Structure
Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of four compulsory core modules (60 credits), two non-compulsory core modules (30 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).
Teaching and Learning
The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, small-group teaching (tutorials or backup classes) 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.
Detailed module information is available at /pals/linguistics-plin-modules.
Dissertation/report
All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.
Compulsory Modules
The programme has the following compulsory component:
Code Title Credit value
(1 ECTS point = 2.5 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê credits)PLIN0049 Dissertation in Linguistics 60 Syntax Specialisation
Students will choose at least three of the following four modules:
Code Title Credit value
(1 ECTS point = 2.5 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê credits)PLIN0067 Intermediate Generative Grammar Word Order 15 PLIN0023 Current Issues in Syntax 15 PLIN0063 Readings in Syntax 15 PLIN0024 Intermediate Generative Grammar Locality 15 In addition, and in consultation with the programme director, students choose two further modules from a range of options (NB options offered may change year on year):
Code Title Credit value
(1 ECTS point = 2.5 Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê credits)PLIN0070 Advanced Phonological Theory 15 PALS0009 Introduction to Speech Sciences 15 PLIN0066 Intermediate Phonology 15 PLIN0020 Advanced Semantic Theory 15 PLIN0053 Interfaces in Syntax 15 PLIN0009 Semantic Theory 15 In addition, students register for three 15-credit option modules in consultation with the programme director chosen from the list.
- Staff
Programme Director: Prof Ad Neeleman
Staff teaching in the area of specialisation:
Other teaching staff:
- Dr Richard Breheny
- Prof Robyn Carston
- Wing Yee Chow
- Dr Bronwen Evans
- Dr Nathan Klinedinst
- Prof Andrew Nevins
- Dr Nausicaa Pouscoulous
- Dr Andrea Santi
- Dr Yasutada Sudo
- Jamie White
NB: staff may occasionally be absent for a term or more on research or other leave. In addition, we can call on the support of Postgraduate Teaching Assistants.
- Application and Entry
Start of programme
- September intake only
Application and next steps
Applications
Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.
Who can apply?
The programme is designed for students with a background in linguistics or cognitive science, who wish to pursue an interest in theoretical syntax. Applicants will usually have taken at least a one-year course in generative syntax or equivalent.
For more information see our page.
What are we looking for?
When we assess your application we would like to learn:
- why you want to study Linguistics with a specialisation in Syntax at graduate level
- why you want to study Linguistics with a specialisation in Syntax at Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê
- what particularly attracts you to the chosen programme
- how your academic and professional background meets the demands of this rigorous programme
- where you would like to go professionally with your degree
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.
- Fees and Funding
Further information is available in the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê prospectus: /prospective-students/graduate/taught-degrees/linguistics-specialisation-syntax-ma#fees-funding. UK/EU national may be eligible to apply for a postgraduate loan of up to £10,000 to help with fees and living costs.
Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê Scholarships
- Careers
Careers
Although the degree can be an end in itself, this advanced programme is an excellent preparation for independent doctoral research in syntax. Graduates from our specialised Linguistics Master's programmesÌý have a very strong track record of securing funded doctoral studentships at institutions and have in recent years gone on to research at MIT, Cambridge, Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê, University of Massachusetts in Amherst, and the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona.
Employability
This Linguistics MA equips graduates with the necessary skills to carry out research in the specialised subject of syntax.
- Open Days
If you are considering applying for the MA Linguistics degree programme but are unable to visit us on a Chandler House Open Day, it may be possible to arrange a guided tour of our building at other dates between mid-November and mid-July. Please contact pals.lingteachingoffice@ucl.ac.uk
- Contact
Register interest in your chosen subjects.
Receive notice of graduate open days, events and more.Register your interest- FAQs
QuestionDo you accept part-time students on the MA Linguistics programme?
Answer
Yes, you can study the programme on a part-time basis over two calendar years.
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Question
Do you have any Open Days?
Answer
We will arrange virtual open days, and you can contact us atÌýpals.lingteachingoffice@ucl.ac.uk for further information.Ìý
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