Overview

The Linguistics programme at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers a rigorous academic environment dedicated to the scientific study of human language. This specific Master’s level track, known as the MIT Indigenous Languages Initiative, focuses on empowering students with the analytical tools of modern generative linguistics. The curriculum is designed to foster deep theoretical understanding and practical research skills within a world-renowned department.

Why Linguistics at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)?

Since its inception in 1961, the department has maintained an international reputation as a premier centre for research in formal models of phonology, morphology, and syntax. Students benefit from a collaborative atmosphere where research is viewed as a shared effort to unlock the secrets of language. The programme is uniquely guided by the hypothesis that language should be studied using the intellectual tools of the natural sciences, a tradition established by influential scholars like Noam Chomsky.

The department provides access to extensive research resources, including reading groups, experimental phonetics labs, and computational modelling facilities. Students are encouraged to participate in the intellectual life of the university through colloquia and discussion groups such as Ling-Lunch and the Phonology Circle. Furthermore, the department maintains strong links with the Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, allowing for interdisciplinary exploration into neuro-imaging and language acquisition.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 32155 per semester
National fee: USD 32155 per semester
Local fee: USD 32155 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to introduce students to the fundamental concepts of generative linguistics through a combination of core requirements and specialised research. Modules may include:

Phonology
Syntax
Semantics
Morphology
Experimental Phonetics
Computational Modelling of Language Learning
Language Acquisition
Sentence Processing

Careers with Linguistics

Graduates from the department are highly sought after for research and teaching positions at leading institutions worldwide. While many alumni pursue doctoral studies, the analytical and formal training provided at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) prepares students for diverse roles in the cognitive sciences and academia. Former students have secured positions at prestigious organisations including the University of Chicago, NYU, and various international research centres in Europe and Asia.

The programme emphasises professional development through the publication of research papers and participation in international conferences. By mastering explicit theories of language and formal grammatical constraints, graduates possess a high level of competence that qualifies them for specialist roles in linguistics and related scientific fields.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Topics in the Grammar of a Less Familiar Language

Language Acquisition

Topics in Computational Phonology

Syntax

Phonology

Semantics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 36 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-15 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

90 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Cambridge, United States

Disciplines

Linguistics View 218 other Masters in Linguistics in United States

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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

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Other requirements

General requirements

The MIT application includes:

A statement of purpose

An academic transcript from each college/university attended

Three letters of recommendation

A writing sample

GRE scores are not required for admission to the doctoral program

MIT requires international applicants whose native language is not English to submit the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)

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

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Out-of-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

64310 USD / year

≈ 64310 USD / year

Living costs

Cambridge

United States

1814 - 3756 USD / month

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

Financing

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Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Linguistics.

Available Scholarships

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Cambridge

Financing

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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