Overview

In the Master’s programme Language and Society you will examine the role of language within a society and how a society can, in turn, shape a language. Providing real-world examples of core linguistics concepts and theory, the programme focuses on the analysis of language use and variation. You will explore how and why languages vary within particular communities, differences in language use and policy, and the influence of issues such as multilingualism and computer-mediated communication.

Specialise in one of seven European language communities

The Language and Society (Linguistics) programme of the University of Amsterdam offers you the unique opportunity to specialise in one of seven European language communities. With experts in English, French, German, Italian, Scandinavian, Slavonic and Spanish, you will be able to develop your own expertise in the linguistics of your language of choice, all the while improving your own productive and receptive proficiency.

Careers

As a Language and Society graduate, you will have developed unique skills relevant to a career in the field of linguistics, as well as a range of employment opportunities where an extensive understanding of language is essential.

The Job Market

Employers from a wide range of fields greatly value the professional skills and critical thinking that you develop in this programme. Besides the most obvious career paths in communications, translation and (language) education, graduates also pursue careers in publishing, journalism, media, civil service, consultancy, insurance companies, and information technology.

The programme organises an annual Career Event for students where alumni discuss their career paths and a university career counsellor offers insights into the job market.

An Academic Career

Graduates interested in pursuing an academic career have gone on to do research internships or to pursue a PhD. If you are interested in pursuing an academic career, it is advisable to discuss the possibility of joining the UvA's two-year Research Master's in Linguistics with the programme coordinator.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Language in Use: Acquisition and Variation

Contact, Conflict and Media

Acquisition and Variation in French

Language Acquisition and Disorders

Language Assessment

Language in Use: Acquisition and Variation

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 12 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-05-15 00:00:00 , EEA/EU
- Apply before 2026-05-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-03-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

TOEFL^® IBT

92

Schedule TOEFL®

Credits

60 ECTS

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Disciplines

Language Studies Linguistics View 29 other Masters in Linguistics in Netherlands

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

92

Schedule TOEFL®

Other requirements

General requirements

A Bachelor’s degree from the UvA or from another accredited university, in one of the languages in which the candidate wishes to specialise (target language) with preferably 15-20 credits in linguistics, European Studies, with at least 30 credits of coursework in the target language, Linguistics, with at least 30 credits of coursework in the target language

English language requirements

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

25900 EUR / year

≈ 25900 EUR / year
EU/EEA Applies to you

Applies to you

EU/EEA Nationals

2695 EUR / year

≈ 2695 EUR / year

Living costs

Amsterdam

Netherlands

1000 - 1500 EUR / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Language and Society (Linguistics).

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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