Linguistics – Master of Arts

Program overview The Master's programme is a two-year, full-time course (four semesters) totaling 120 ECTS. It provides a broad, research-informed foundation in linguistics while allowing you to specialise in different subfields. The curriculum begins from cross-linguistic perspectives — language universals and comparative observations — and uses these as a basis for exploring how general linguistic theories apply to individual languages.

Specialisations and language of instruction There are six specialisation tracks in the programme; three of these can be completed entirely in English: General Linguistics, English Linguistics, and a double-degree pathway with the Università di Verona that concentrates on applied linguistics. This structure lets you start from universal principles of human language and then steer your studies toward particular languages or applied topics according to your interests.

Why this programme is relevant for international students If you are interested in understanding the underlying structures shared across languages and in applying theoretical tools to analyze specific languages, this programme offers both the comparative perspective and options for deeper, language-specific study. The double-degree option with an Italian partner university also provides an international dimension for students who want mobility and cross-institutional training in applied linguistics.

Typical application information (check the programme webpage for exact details)

• A completed Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in linguistics or a related field
• Academic transcripts and proof of degree equivalence
• Proof of English proficiency for English-taught specialisations (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS or equivalent)
• Curriculum vitae (CV) and a motivation/statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation (if requested by the admissions office)
• Any additional documents or specific prerequisites listed on the official programme page (e.g., portfolio of work or subject-specific assessments)

Program structure and focus

This Master's programme is built from seven modules totalling 120 ECTS and is organised to allow study in English across the two specialist tracks (English Linguistics and General Linguistics) as well as a double-degree option with the Università di Verona. The curriculum combines a broad grounding in the core areas of linguistics with focused training in research methods, in-depth work in a chosen specialisation, and a substantial independent research project culminating in a Master's thesis and examination.

What you will study and achieve

Core and methods modules provide advanced theoretical and methodological foundations, while four modules dedicated to your chosen specialisation give you concentrated expertise (66 ECTS). The programme’s final module centres on research: writing the Master’s thesis and sitting the Master’s examination (24 ECTS). Graduates leave with specialist knowledge in their track, practical methodological competence, and the ability to carry out independent linguistic research.

Program requirements (modules and credits)

• Module 1: Core areas of linguistics — 18 ECTS
• Module 2: Methods in linguistics — 12 ECTS
• Modules 3–6: Specialisation-specific coursework (English Linguistics, General Linguistics, or double-degree option) — total 66 ECTS
• Module 7: Research, Master’s thesis and Master’s examination — 24 ECTS
• Total programme credit load: 120 ECTS
• Language of instruction: English (including the double-degree option with Università di Verona)

Core learning outcomes

• Advanced understanding of the main subfields and theoretical frameworks in linguistics.
• Practical competence in linguistic research methods and analytical techniques.
• Deep, specialised knowledge in a chosen area of linguistics through focused coursework.
• Ability to design, conduct, and present independent research through the Master’s thesis and final examination.

The programme prepares graduates for academic research and doctoral study in linguistics by providing strong theoretical and methodological foundations as well as hands-on research experience through the Master's thesis. It also equips students with skills applicable to language-related professions such as language teaching, applied linguistics, language policy, language technology and roles that require expertise in linguistic analysis and data-driven language research.