Linguistics (research) Leiden University

Overview

The research master’s programme in Linguistics combines leading expertise with a flexible programme format. During this two-year programme you will be able to choose from the largest selection of languages offered in Europe and an exceptional range of linguistic approaches including historical, descriptive, formal, cognitive, computational, sociolinguistic, psycholinguistic, experimental and corpus-based studies. You will be able to explore sub-fields including phonetics, phonology, morphology, semantics, syntax, or pragmatics.

Develop your research skills

An important aspect of this programme is developing your ability to conduct original and innovative research. You will have the opportunity to attend conferences, workshops and lecture series organised in Leiden, all of which will help you forge an outstanding start to your career. Small classes ensure that you have plenty of direct contact with your lecturers.

Learn from experts

Academics from the renowned Leiden University Centre for Linguistics (LUCL) teach in the master’s programme in Linguistics (research). During your studies, you will have access to a breadth and depth of expertise that is almost unmatched in Europe, as well as exceptional resources such as the famous collections at the Leiden University Library. The courses are taught by a diverse group of scholars, all of whom are engaged in international research.

What you will learn

The development of in-depth knowledge in the field, and the ability to think critically and analytically are key goals of this programme. The research master in Linguistics will introduce you to the history, basic concepts, research methods, and recent developments in linguistics, including historical, descriptive, theoretical, experimental and corpus-based studies. You will learn to use linguistic concepts and approaches in researching and analysing data. Your thesis work will give you the opportunity to apply these methods in your own research.

We also provide opportunities for you to broaden your experience and professional skills in preparation to excel in a career inside as well as outside of academics.

Career prospects

Our graduates pursue careers at research agencies or in the research departments of companies or government organisations. Many enter PhD programmes at Leiden or another university, both in the Netherlands or abroad.

Outside of research, your knowledge of linguistics and advanced analytical and problem-solving skills can be applied within a range of vocations, from publishing and translating to teaching.

Examples of the diverse roles of our graduates include:

• PhD Candidate at universities in the Netherlands or abroad, such as the US, the UK, Sweden, France and Germany
• Junior advisor at an institute for linguistic research and language teaching
• Editor at a publishing house
• Freelance translator
• Consular officer at a ministry of foreign affairs
• Technical writer
• Content manager, editor, translator at NGO's
• Translator within EU organisations
• Author of digital educational materials
• Research assistant at an university in Canada
• Project manager at a translation agency
• Teacher at a secondary school

Accreditation

Accredited by NVAO, the Accreditation Organisation of the Netherlands and Flanders.