Linguistics

Language is a hugely important part of our daily lives. It is integral to how we communicate and how we learn, and it determines part of our identity. Because of all this, it is important that we study language. The research Master's programme in Linguistics offers students the necessary skills to approach language-related questions scientifically. This research focus distinguishes it from undergraduate programmes in linguistics.

Theory driven empirical research

In this programme everything is geared towards doing actual research: From research that addresses fundamental properties of language to research that applies such fundamental knowledge to resolve practical problems and questions.

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 mandatory courses in theoretical linguistics (phonology, syntax, semantics, discourse), psycholinguistics (acquisition, processing) and research practice (including computational and experimental methodology). Following the mandatory courses, you choose a series of elective courses in order to specialise in one area. Throughout the programme you will keep on acquiring professional language research skills. The second year is mostly devoted to designing, planning, and carrying out research projects during a team science task, your internship and your 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.

I was pleasantly surprised by the openness and approachability of the teachers, combined with the constant encouragement to think outside the box.