Overview The programme is a two-year (four-semester) Master’s taught in English and worth 120 ECTS. It offers two distinct but complementary paths: Human Language Processing (HLP) and Machine Language Processing (MLP). A common set of foundational and methodological courses underpins both paths, while students are expected to specialise by taking a majority of their coursework in either the HLP or the MLP track. The curriculum blends theoretical grounding with hands-on practice across both tracks.
What to expect Instruction emphasizes both concepts and application, so you will study formal and empirical approaches to language while also developing practical skills for implementation and analysis. In line with the programme’s focus, acquiring competence in statistical methods and programming is required, enabling you to work with data-driven models and computational tools central to modern speech and language processing. The structure suits students who want a balance of linguistic theory and technical training relevant to research and development in language technology.
Key facts and requirements
This Master's curriculum is organized around two tightly connected tracks: human language processing and computational (machine) language processing. All students begin with a foundational module that introduces central questions and methodologies from both perspectives, then specialise in one track while retaining the flexibility to take courses across tracks depending on individual interests. Module Seven explicitly supports interdisciplinary study by allowing coursework in neighbouring fields such as computer science and psychology.
The programme places strong emphasis on methodological training so graduates are prepared for careers in industry or academia and for advanced experimental or computational research in language processing. Statistical methods and programming are mandatory parts of the curriculum: statistics courses are offered in Module Two, and programming courses can be taken in Modules Two, Four, or Seven. Practical experience is encouraged through internships outside the university, and internship opportunities are also provided within the university via Module Six. The programme is structured into eight modules and can be completed in English.
Key modules (credit points)
Requirements and learning outcomes
You should hold an above‑average Bachelor's degree in linguistics. The overall grade must be at least equivalent to the German grade 2.5 (classified as "good"). If you are still completing your Bachelor's degree (in your final year), you are still welcome to apply before graduation. In exceptional cases, candidates who completed a closely related degree programme may be considered for admission if their qualifying degree also meets the "good" (2.5) threshold and their academic record indicates they are likely to succeed in this Master's programme.
All applicants must submit evidence of advanced English language proficiency. Full details and the formal rules governing admission (including specific evidence required and any country‑specific grade conversions) are specified in the admission regulations of the University of Konstanz.
Winter Semester (International)
15 May 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 May 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for roles in both academia and industry where expertise in language data, speech technology, or experimental linguistics is required. The methodological emphasis (statistics, programming, experimental design) equips students for positions such as computational linguist, NLP engineer, data scientist focusing on language data, speech technology developer, or research assistant in academic labs.
The programme also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies in linguistics, cognitive science, or computational language processing for students aiming to pursue research careers.