Language and Linguistics, Modern Languages - Master's Programme

The MA in Language and Linguistics is intended for students who are interested in increasing the knowledge of language in a broad sense and the theoretical understanding of linguistic questions. An additional goal is to develop the student’s language proficiency and knowledge of the language.

Students can choose between seven different specializations and 18 subject areas. Note however that not all specializations and subject areas are offered every year. For the intake in 2024, the following options are available: Classical Language, Greek (Ancient and Byzantine Greek) or Latin; Cognitive Semiotics; English linguistics; Linguistics: General Linguistics or Phonetics; Modern Languages, French, Italian, Japanese or Modern Greek; Swedish/Scandinavian Languages and Swedish as a Second Language. 

Modern Languages

Choose one of the languages French, Italian, Japanese or Modern Greek in the next step of your application. 

In the subject of French, the obligatory courses are Contemporary Linguistic Theory Applied on French, Acquisition of French and Introduction to Medieval French. The language of instruction is French. Obligatory courses in Italian are Written Proficiency, Linguistic Variation in the Italian Language, The Synchrony and Diachrony of the Italian Language, Italian Literature, and Acquisition of Italian in a Multilingualism Perspective. The language of instruction is Italian.

The courses in Japanese focus on reading and discussing texts on Japanese theoretical linguistics, while aiming to improve language skills (reading, writing and speaking). The courses are instructed in Japanese and English.

In Modern Greek, the students follow the development of the Greek language from Medieval times to Modern times, which involves the study of literary texts from various periods of time, as well as in-depth studies of the development of Modern Greek linguistics. 

Find more information about the subjects on the programme’s webpages.

Program structure

The programme consists of compulsory courses common to all specializations, compulsory courses for each subject area, and elective courses. The languages of instruction are English and the language corresponding to the field of your specialization. The final degree project consists of a thesis in language and linguistics that constitutes in-depth study in the chosen subject area. 

The academic year is split into two semesters. Each semester is divided into (usually two or four) courses which are all examined separately. Subject specialization courses and elective courses are offered on a rolling basis. 

• Semester 1:  Philosophy of Science for Linguists 7.5 credits, compulsory subject specialization courses or elective courses 22.5 cr
• Semester 2:  Methods in Linguistics 7.5 credits, compulsory subject specialization courses or elective courses 22.5 cr
• Semester 3: Compulsory subject specialization courses or elective courses 30 cr
• Semester 4:  Degree Project – Master's (Two Years) Thesis, 30 cr

About the prerequisites

This programme presupposes a solid foundation in language and linguistics. You must have academic work in French when applying for French, in Italian, when applying for Italian and so forth. Also remember to upload your Summary sheet (under Programme-specific documents below). 

Career prospects

The programme prepares students for a future career where competency in language is essential. It also provides you with the academic background you need in order to apply for PhD studies in languages and linguistics throughout Europe and beyond.