Full Time option suitable for:

Domestic(EEA) applicants: Yes
International (Non EEA) applicants currently residing outside of the EEA Region. Yes

The MA in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics is open to graduates (BA or equivalent) from all disciplines who have an interest in Language. It is suitable for those with some prior knowledge of Linguistics as well as those with little or no prior knowledge of Linguistics.

This programme provides a flexible learning environment in that it encourages students to identify and pursue their own research interests in relation to language through a wide range of option modules, while at the same time acquiring in-depth subject knowledge and competency as well as indispensable transferrable skills. These skills are acquired through module-based learning and significantly enhanced through work on a substantial independent research project, the minor MA thesis, during semester three.

NEW! Internship opportunities in Linguistics [this is a new alternative to the MA thesis module]

The MA in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics introduces students to current research approaches, methods and theories in core areas of linguistics as well as their effective application to a wide range of language-based phenomena. The program provides relevant qualifications for students who seek employment in a broad range of language related jobs or a professional career in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics and related fields.

The program nurtures core academic values such as the importance of systematic and empirically based investigation of language phenomena based on critical reflection of existing theories and approaches. It promotes the importance of a multi-method approach to exploring language phenomena and emphasizes the relevance of interdisciplinary and intercultural perspectives.

The program develops students’ academic communication skills, autonomous individual and group learning and research skills, and enhances pattern recognition and empirical study design skills through a variety of teaching and learning approaches. They include critical assessment of existing studies, methods and theories, hands-on group and individual project work, problem-based research approaches, group discussions and oral presentations.

The program provides a flexible learning environment in that it encourages students to identify and pursue their own research interests in relation to language through a wide range of option modules, while at the same time acquiring in-depth subject knowledge and competency as well as indispensable transferrable skills. Students have a choice in the third trimester of pursuing independent research (thesis or research papers) or doing an internship.

• Students will be able to critically analyse secondary sources, primary empirical data and existing research methods.
• Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and the ability to systematically apply ethical standards in Human Subject research.
• Students will be able to demonstrate knowledge of the scientific principles, processes and approaches that underpin linguistic reasoning, analysis and research.
• Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to use electronic research tools commonly used in linguistics.
• Students will be able to design coherent studies on a wide range of language-based phenomena, systematically analyze such phenomena and coherently communicate the findings.
• Students will be able to systematically apply language-based theories, approaches and research methods to a wide range of related contexts such as language learning, language documentation, language awareness, language technology, language planning
• Students will be able to •demonstrate the ability to apply key transferable skills – presentation, information gathering and assessment, group-work and academic writing skills.

Linguistics interfaces with a range of areas. It can lead to careers in:

• language teaching

• data mining

• localisation

• computer science

• cognitive science

• education

• speech and language therapy

• speech processing

• artificial intelligence

• publishing  and media

View All Modules Here

Students take modules in four core areas of linguistics such as Syntax, Phonology, Sociolinguistics and Corpus Linguistics (a total of 40 credits) and two Research Skills modules (a total of 10 credits). A further 10 credits, obtained from usually two elective modules that are selected from a list that includes (but is not limited to) World Englishes, Multilingualism, Intercultural Communication, Second Language Acquisition, Translation: Methods & Skills, Researching Creole Languages, L1 Acquisition, Language Impairment, and some post-graduate modules from other units: Language Technologies, Exploring Text with Python, Quantitative Text Analysis and Psychology of Language. During Trimester 3 students typically either complete a minor MA thesis or complete an internship (including an extended report) (30 credits).

MA Linguistics & Applied Linguistics (Z360) Full Time
EU          fee per year - € 8650
nonEU    fee per year - € 21520

***Fees are subject to change

• No prior knowledge of Linguistics is required for admission to the MA programme. The MA is an ab initio degree, applicants who have already completed a BA in Linguistics are not eliglbe to apply.
• Competence in a language other than English is not required but useful.
• Applicants must have a BA or equivalent, having normally reached a 2H1 or better. Applications with a 2H2 average are considered on a case-by-case basis.
• All students must normally supply references from two academic referees who are able to provide details about the applicant’s academic abilities and motivations. Work references are accepted on a case-by-case basis.
• Students whose first language is not English and who did not complete their prior education through English (or Irish) must take an IELTS test to provide proof of their English language skills. Students are expected to reach a minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.5 (particularly in writing and speaking).
• Students who fall a bit short (0.5 in one band) of the required scores may consider attending a a 10 week and 7 week course in the Applied Language Center prior to the start of the MA programme.[1]
  
  [1] Students joining the 10 week programme are required to have an IELTS of 5.5 with no component below 5.0 (or equivalent). Students joining the 7 week programme are required to have an IELTS of 6.0 with no component below 5.5.

Documents to be submitted:

• Cover Letter
• CV
• Two academic references
• Transcript (English translation) showing final grade
• IELTS test results (for non- native speakers)

The first time I visited UCD, I immediately fell in love with the University’s warm international community atmosphere. The MA was appealing to me as it covered many areas of my primary degree which mainly related to languages (Portuguese and English). I had great interest in learning more about language acquisition, teaching and learning a second language and therefore this masters programme was the perfect fit for me. I also thoroughly enjoyed learning more about the new reality I was experiencing in multicultural Dublin. The MA has helped me in a variety of areas related to languages. Thanks to the MA, I have worked as an interpreter, translator and a teacher of Brazilian Portuguese as a foreign language and I have since chosen to be a university lecturer.
(Clarissa de Sousa Oliveira, Brazil, PhD Candidate)

I was always obsessed with languages. Not only the language itself, but also language acquisitions and use in various contexts. After completing my BA in Russian Literacy, I spent a year working for a language school in China before deciding to do my masters. The year in the School of Languages, Cultures and Linguistics is one of my most cherished experiences. An important element distinguishing UCD from other universities is its flexible curriculum. Doing my MA Applied Linguistics, I also chose modules from Linguistics and TESOL, which enriched my knowledge and enhanced my language teaching skills as well. I really appreciated the support offered as the courses are taught in small groups, with professional and accessible teachers.
(Yawen Ren, MA 2017)

When I applied for the MA Linguistics at UCD, I had ideas and assumptions of what kind of linguistics I would be studying. All of them did not turn out to be true as the programme exceeded my expectations and covered different angles of linguistics I never thought of before. Since it deepened my appreciation of linguistics, I am now looking for opportunities to take a PhD in linguistics.
(Jonathan Hardjopranoto, MA 2018)

• MA TESOL FT
• GradDip in Linguistics (exit strategy only): Students who decide no to complete the MA in Linguistics after the first two trimesters, can let us know as early as possible and receive a Graduate Diploma.
• Graduate Diploma in Localisation
• MA Languages & Linguistics - Part Time

The following entry routes are available:

* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised

*Please note that the part-time option is not available for non-EU students on a student visa.

How are applications processed?

Applications must be made online. Once the complete application has been received, it is reviewed by the international office and/or the School. Applications are accepted throughout the year and are reviewed on a rolling basis generally until early August.

Non-EU students should try to apply as early as possible – between January and March, and ideally no later than early May – as most of the scholarship competitions take place between February and April and the issuing of visas may take up to three months, particularly during the summer when there is usually a high volume of applications. For details, please contact the UCD international office.

For any technical and administrative help with the application, please contact slclgraduates@ucd.ie.

For any additional information about academic issues relating to the programme, please contact bettinamigge@ucd.ie.

Who teaches on the MA in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics?

The core modules and some of the option modules are taught by staff in Linguistics.

Prof Bettina Migge Room A312 (bettinamigge@ucd.ie)

Mr Feargal Murphy Room A321 (feargal.murphy@ucd.ie)

Dr Máire Ní Chiosáin Room D308 (maire.nichiosain@ucd.ie)

Prof Jamal Ouhalla Room A315 (j.ouhalla@ucd.ie)

Dr Sandrine Peraldi Room D313 (sandrine.peraldi@ucd.ie)

Dr Stephen Lucek Room D318 (stephen.lucek@ucd.ie)

Option modules are offered by Julie Bernsdsen, and Prof Tina Hickey among others.