Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Linguistics

Summary

The Master of Philosophy is a one-year research-based degree in which candidates undertake a programme of supervised research which critically investigates a topic of substance and significance.

Why study a MPhil?

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree has a status higher than that of other Masters degrees but lower than that of the PhD degree. It is a research degree designed to recognise an original contribution to knowledge and the comments on the originality and significance of the PhD thesis apply here too. However, it is intended that an MPhil thesis be the product of only one year of full-time research (though in practice candidates invariably take longer) and the original contribution to knowledge will, therefore, be less than would be expected in a PhD thesis.

The thesis submitted for the degree demonstrates expertise in the methods of research; displays intellectual independence and makes a substantial original contribution to the subject area.

This degree does not include a conditional enrolment period.

Why study Linguistics?

Linguistics at the University of Waikato is a top 250 QS-rated programme and will deepen your appreciation for language, as well as provide essential understandings relevant to any career where language is a key component. Language is a tool we all use instinctively, without necessarily understanding its precise structure. By studying Linguistics, you'll gain an inner working knowledge of language design and organisation. You'll learn about different sounds, words and clause structures, and how they work in world languages. You'll explore different cultures and societies to see how linguistic behaviour changes by location, as well as in various situations. Your Linguistics studies will also give you a commanding understanding of the English language which can lead to careers in journalism, free-lance writing or academia. The QS World University Subject Rankings has recognised the University of Waikato among the worlds top 250 universities for studying Linguistics.

Career Opportunities

Education Researcher

Journalist

Language Policy and Planning

Language School Management

Lexicography (Dictionary Writing)

Second Language Teaching

Speech Therapist

Writer