Joining the MLC: How, Who and When?

No, not at all. And don’t be intimidated by Linguistics! Linguists are people who like to solve puzzles about language, uncover patterns in the way people speak and interact, and are curious about how people do things with language–which is almost everything.

If you haven’t had any prior courses in Linguistics (or if you want to be reminded of what you did learn), the MA provides introductory courses in all areas of Linguistics that will prepare you for the remaining coursework. All of the courses will provide enough background to understand the course material.

Whether you are unsure about your research and professional interests–or if you have a very specific idea of what you want to do–the MLC will help you plan your next steps after graduation.

There are two options for completion of degree. How long it takes you to finish depends on various factors: which option you choose, how many courses you take each semester, and whether you are employed while taking coursework. Full-time students typically complete the program in two academic years (four semesters). Part-time students typically complete the program in no more than three academic years (six semesters). 

• Option (1) is to take 30 credits (10 courses) of coursework. 
• Option (2) is to take 24 credits of coursework (8 courses) and write a Master’s Thesis (6 credits of thesis research). Note that these 6 credits of thesis research carry no tuition charge).

Yes. You will work with the MLC Director to determine your program of study. The Graduate School of Arts and Sciences requires that part-time students complete their degrees in three academic years, or six semesters.

A small number of merit-based partial tuition scholarships are awarded to MLC students each academic year that cover the cost of tuition for one class in fall semester and one class in spring. There is no separate application required to be eligible for these merit-based scholarships.

Note that the Linguistics Department does not award ongoing tuition scholarships or assistantships at the Master’s level. 

For more information about financial assistance, please visit the Office of Student Financial services.

Please email Dr. Alexandra Johnston, Director, Master’s Programs & Career Management, or Erin Esch Pereira, Graduate Program Coordinator.