Linguistics

The very fact that we have and use languages is part of what makes us human. In this programme, you get to reflect on their structures and what drives language variation and change.  You will learn the principles of first language acquisition, and what is special about learning more languages. The programme also satisfies your curiosity to know more about the way language is processed in the brain and how we use it.

Theory driven empirical research

The key focus of the research Master’s programme in Linguistics is on the cognitive faculties underlying human language, and their interaction. The programme offers a broad focus on:

• theoretical linguistics (phonology, syntax, semantics)
• psycholinguistics (language acquisition, language processing)
• language use (discourse studies, bilingualism, phonetics, historical linguistics)

You will acquire a solid background in all three domains, and then choose a series of elective courses in order to specialise in one area. You will receive training in empirical, computational, and experimental methodology, and you will practice designing, planning, and carrying out a research project during your internship and thesis work. 

Why this programme in Utrecht?

International research environment

The Master is well embedded in the international research community of the Institute for Language Sciences. This creates many possibilities for internship and individual supervision, and makes it possible to use the excellent lab facilities of the Institute for Language Sciences (eye-tracking, Babylab). We work closely with other linguistic institutes in the Netherlands in the Netherlands Graduate School of Linguistics (LOT). 

After graduation

As a graduate of the research Master Linguistics, you will be highly eligible for a PhD position or for a position within a public or private organisation. Many alumni pursue academic careers, while others obtain traineeships in natural language resource firms, junior research positions in international organisations and research facilities, teaching positions in secondary schools and colleges, etc.