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Full time | SOAS, University of London | 1 year | 23-SEP-24

Study mode

Full time

Duration

1 year

Start date

23-SEP-24

Key information
DATA SOURCE : IDP Connect

Qualification type

MA - Master of Arts

Subject areas

Linguistics

Course type

Taught

Course Summary

Overview

MA Linguistics at SOAS is a modular programme which combines the intensive study of the core areas of formal linguistics - phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics - with a choice of options in different areas of the discipline.

Modern linguistics is the scientific study of all aspects of the world’s languages from their sound systems and grammatical structure through to the interaction of language with culture, the study of meaning in language, and the use of language in modern technology. Linguists try to establish what types of structures are shared by different languages and the extent to which language may differ from each other. The MA Linguistics programme is run on a modular basis to suit the needs of:

  • Those with a degree in linguistics who wish to pursue more regional and language-based study;
  • Those with a degree in linguistics who wish to pursue more research-oriented topics before proceeding to a research degree;
  • Those with little or no previous training in linguistics who wish to acquire a knowledge of the discipline;
  • Those with little or no previous training in linguistics who wish to take the degree as a conversion course before; proceeding to a research degree.

The programme can be taken full time over one calendar year or part time over two or three years (daytime only.) The taught part of the programme consists of core lectures which introduce basic concepts, theory and methodology; and additional seminars which extend the core material into other areas. A 10,000-word dissertation written over the summer offers students the opportunity to develop original research in an area of special interest. MA Linguistics is for students who would like to acquire general postgraduate-level training in formal linguistics (perhaps as preparation for further training or research).

MA Linguistics is for students who would like to acquire general postgraduate-level training in formal linguistics (perhaps as preparation for further training or research).

Employment

An MA in Linguistics from SOAS equips students with essential skills such as competency in language skills and intercultural awareness and understanding. Postgraduate students gain linguistic and cultural expertise enabling them to continue in the field of research or to seek professional and management careers.

MA Linguistics graduates leave SOAS with a portfolio of widely transferable skills which employers seek, including written and oral communication skills; attention to detail; analytical and problem solving skills; and the ability to research, amass and order information from a variety of sources. A postgraduate degree is a valuable experience that provides students with a body of work and a diverse range of skills that they can use to market themselves with when they graduate.

Modules

This module provides an introduction to key issues and practice in research methodology within the field of Linguistics. Students will become acquainted with a range of empirical approaches to research questions and will relate these to the type of evidence and analysis required to produce the answers being sought. The module will provide an overview of methodological approaches from a range of subdisciplines while offering the opportunity to conduct two small-scale research projects using at least one specific research method and approach. The module aims to train students in developing research questions and to assess the applicability and relevance of different research methods, thus providing them with the foundation for developing individual projects. It will also be very useful for dissertation preparation. The module will also discuss issues of power and decolonisation in research, informed consent and ethical review. The module covers topics such as qualitative vs. quantitative methods and data, research ethics and data management. The students will be introduced to a wide range of methodological approaches, for example research interviews, participant observation, questionnaires and document studies. They will also be introduced to practical issues involved in making recordings and videos for linguistic research.

Tuition fees

UK fees
Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

£12,220

International fees
Course fees for EU and international students

For this course (per year)

£25,320

Entry requirements

We will consider all applications with 2:ii (or international equivalent) or higher. In addition to degree classification we take into account other elements of the application including supporting statement and references.

University information

At SOAS University of London, postgraduate students are encouraged to challenge the status quo and think globally. SOAS is the leading higher education institution in Europe specialising in the study of Africa, Asia and the Near and Middle East. Postgraduate courses are taught by respected academics engaged in ground-breaking fieldwork and research. The work of researchers at SOAS influences both government policy and the lives of individuals...more