University
University of Canterbury
Master of Linguistics
This course is available
On-Campus
Level of Study
Master's Degree
Duration
1 year
Next start date
Expected Jul 2023
Campus
University of Canterbury
Summary
This 180-point master’s degree is an advanced programme offering specialised courses in linguistic analysis and a significant research component. Master of Linguistics (MLing) students will analyse the relationship between a language and its 'social life'. In a New Zealand context, this means understanding how English has developed over time, and how it continues to change as a marker of NZ identity, as well as understanding the relationship, both past and present, between English and Te Reo Maori.
How do I plan my degree?
The MLing is a 180-point programme that consists of:
- a compulsory thesis, worth 90 points.
- 90 points of courses from 400 or 600-level Linguistics and/or elective courses from the schedule.
Subjects and courses
Students can choose from either 90 points from 400 or 600-level Linguistics courses (excluding LING 400 and LING 480), or 60 points from 400 or 600-level Linguistics courses and another 30 points from the elective courses.
It is recommended you take no more than two taught courses in a given semester.
Further study
Students can study a Doctor of Philosophy in Linguistics.
Career opportunities
Graduates of the Master in Linguistics will be highly trained in the theories and contemporary methodologies of Linguistics and skilful in a range of complementary analytical, critical and linguistic skills. These will include an understanding of:
- the internal structure of language and languages, including knowledge of phonetics, phonology and syntax
- the relationship between English and other languages, including Te Reo Maori
- key geographical and social determinants of variation in language
- the role of language in constructing individual and group identities
- how language produces and reflects cultural change and difference.
Start date: Monthly by arrangement with supervisor
Entry criteria
A student for this degree needs to have either:
- a bachelor’s degree with a major in Linguistics, with at least a B+ Grade Point Average in 60 points in Linguistics at 300-level; or
- any bachelor’s degree, and a Graduate Diploma in Arts in Linguistics, with at least a B+ Grade Point Average in 60 points in Linguistics at 300-level; or
- a bachelor’s degree with a major in Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Philosophy, Computer Science, a language, or a different major approved by the Head of Department of Linguistics, with at least a B+ Grade Point Average in 60 points of 300-level courses in the majoring subject, and achieved at least a B+ in LING 400 English Structures (a distance-learning course which runs over the summer); or
- other approved qualifications of an equivalent standard.
In addition, all students must be approved to enrol.
Applicants must also satisfy our English language entry requirements
- IELTS (Academic): Minimum overall score of 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in reading, writing, listening and speaking.
- TOEFL (IBT): Minimum overall score of 90, with a minimum score of 19 in Reading, Listening and Writing.
- PTE (Pearson Test of English - Academic): Overall score of 58 and no communicative skills score below 50.
Application deadline: At least 6 months before the planned start date.
Studying in NZ
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