Linguistics with a specialisation in Syntax MA

The Linguistics with a specialisation in Syntax MA is a research-oriented programme designed for students looking for a concentrated, advanced course in theoretical syntax, couched broadly within the Principles and Parameters approach to syntax and its offshoot: the Minimalist Program.

Key Information

Programme starts

September

Modes and duration

Full time: 1 year

Part time: 2 years

Location: London, Bloomsbury

Fees and application deadlines: Details available in the UCL Prospectus

Entry requirements

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard is required.

English Language Requirements

If your education has not been conducted in the English language, you will be expected to demonstrate evidence of an adequate level of English proficiency.

The English language level for this programme is: Good

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

International students

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website.

International equivalencies

See below for short videos on studying Linguistics and Language Sciences at UCL and a guided tour of Chandler House, home of UCL Linguistics:

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UCL Language Sciences – Teaching Philosophy

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UCL Language Sciences – Chandler House Tour

Further information on the degree programme can be found here:

Context

The UCL Division of Psychology & Language Sciences undertakes world-leading research and teaching in linguistics, language, mind, and behaviour. More specifically, UCL Linguistics is one of the leading departments for research in theoretical linguistics in the UK and its staff include world-leaders in theoretical syntax, semantics, pragmatics, phonology, and experimental linguistics.

Our work attracts staff and students from around the world. Together they create an outstanding and vibrant environment, taking advantage of cutting-edge resources such as a behavioural neuroscience laboratory, a centre for brain imaging, and extensive laboratories for research in speech and language, perception, cognition, and communication.

Our world-class research is characterised by a tight integration of theoretical and experimental work spanning the full width of the linguistic enterprise and forms the bedrock of the department’s eminent reputation which is also reflected in other markers of excellence such as its editorial involvement with top journals in the field.

Department: Division of Psychology & Language Sciences

Student / staff ratios › 181 staff including 173 postdocs › 780 taught students › 440 research students

Research Excellence Framework (REF)

The Research Excellence Framework, or REF, is the system for assessing the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

In the UK’s 2021 Research Excellence Framework, as part of the Faculty Unit of Assessment, UCL Psychology and Language Science’s Research Environment ranked equal First in the UK. Additionally, 92% of our research was graded 4* (‘world-leading’) or 3* (‘internationally excellent’).

Learn more about the scope of UCL's research, and browse case studies, on our Research Impact website.

Content and Structure

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits. The programme consists of four compulsory core modules (60 credits), two non-compulsory core modules (30 credits), two optional modules (30 credits) and a dissertation/report (60 credits).

Teaching and Learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, small-group teaching (tutorials or backup classes) and a virtual learning environment. Some modules also involve workshops or practical classes. Assessment is through take home and unseen examination, essays, presentations, assignments and the dissertation.

Detailed module information is available at https://www.ucl.ac.uk/pals/linguistics-plin-modules.

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 10,000 words.

Compulsory Modules

The programme has the following compulsory component:

Code	Title	Credit value _{(1 ECTS point = 2.5 UCL credits)}
PLIN0049	Dissertation in Linguistics	60

Syntax Specialisation

Students will choose at least three of the following four modules:

Code	Title	Credit value _{(1 ECTS point = 2.5 UCL credits)}
PLIN0067	Intermediate Generative Grammar Word Order	15
PLIN0023	Current Issues in Syntax	15
PLIN0063	Readings in Syntax	15
PLIN0024	Intermediate Generative Grammar Locality	15

In addition, and in consultation with the programme director, students choose two further modules from a range of options (NB options offered may change year on year):

Code	Title	Credit value _{(1 ECTS point = 2.5 UCL credits)}
PLIN0070	Advanced Phonological Theory	15
PALS0009	Introduction to Speech Sciences	15
PLIN0066	Intermediate Phonology	15
PLIN0020	Advanced Semantic Theory	15
PLIN0053	Interfaces in Syntax	15
PLIN0009	Semantic Theory	15

In addition, students register for three 15-credit option modules in consultation with the programme director chosen from the list.

Staff

Programme Director: Prof Ad Neeleman

Staff teaching in the area of specialisation:

Other teaching staff:

NB: staff may occasionally be absent for a term or more on research or other leave. In addition, we can call on the support of Postgraduate Teaching Assistants.

Application and Entry

Start of programme

September intake only

Applications

Students are advised to apply as early as possible due to competition for places. Those applying for scholarship funding (particularly overseas applicants) should take note of application deadlines.

Who can apply?

The programme is designed for students with a background in linguistics or cognitive science, who wish to pursue an interest in theoretical syntax. Applicants will usually have taken at least a one-year course in generative syntax or equivalent.

For more information see our Applications page.

What are we looking for?

When we assess your application we would like to learn:

why you want to study Linguistics with a specialisation in Syntax at graduate level
why you want to study Linguistics with a specialisation in Syntax at UCL
what particularly attracts you to the chosen programme
how your academic and professional background meets the demands of this rigorous programme
where you would like to go professionally with your degree

Together with essential academic requirements, the personal statement is your opportunity to illustrate whether your reasons for applying to this programme match what the programme will deliver.

Fees and Funding

Further information is available in the UCL prospectus: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/taught-degrees/linguistics-specialisation-syntax-ma#fees-funding. UK/EU national may be eligible to apply for a postgraduate loan of up to £10,000 to help with fees and living costs. Learn more about postgraduate loans.

UCL Scholarships

For information on general scholarship opportunities.

Careers

Although the degree can be an end in itself, this advanced programme is an excellent preparation for independent doctoral research in syntax. Graduates from our specialised Linguistics Master's programmes have a very strong track record of securing funded doctoral studentships at institutions and have in recent years gone on to research at MIT, Cambridge, UCL, University of Massachusetts in Amherst, and the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona.

Employability

This Linguistics MA equips graduates with the necessary skills to carry out research in the specialised subject of syntax.

Open Days

If you are considering applying for the MA Linguistics degree programme but are unable to visit us on a Chandler House Open Day, it may be possible to arrange a guided tour of our building at other dates between mid-November and mid-July. Please contact pals.lingteachingoffice@ucl.ac.uk

Contact

Contact Information

pals.lingteachingoffice@ucl.ac.uk

Division of Psychology & Language Sciences

FAQs

Question

Do you accept part-time students on the MA Linguistics programme?

Answer

Yes, you can study the programme on a part-time basis over two calendar years.

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