The Master of Arts in Linguistics programme at NTU School of Humanities provides a holistic education across the different elements of language and communication at a deeper level. This programme is designed to allow students to develop further their interest and understanding in the various linguistic sub-specialities, and to encourage them to develop a comprehensive theoretical foundation in linguistics and the related disciplines.
This programme is an excellent platform for non-linguistics graduates to gain a foothold in linguistics. It is a great way to enrich and enhance your skillsets for daily work application, and for aspiring PhD candidates
- Emphasis on Linguistics application
Structure of language, sociolinguistics, and psycholinguistics are emphasized to provide students with a strong foundation in linguistics studies while also relating theories to real life issues through discussions of the applications and implications of various viewpoints. - Interdisciplinary approach to linguistics and research
The MA in Linguistics programme provides a holistic approach to linguistics, enabling students to pursue their interests in related fields like psychology, sociology and neuroscience. - The Multilingual aspects of linguistics
Our focal point has always been the Multilingual aspects of linguistics given that Singapore is a melting pot of diverse languages and cultures. These are translated into our curriculum at both undergraduate and graduate level since 2007.
The MA (Linguistics) Programme currently admits students in January and August.
The admission requirements are as follow:
- A good bachelor’s degree.
- International applicants whose undergraduate and/or postgraduate degree was awarded by an institution where English is not the sole medium of instruction must have an IELTS* score of 7; OR a TOEFL Score of 100*.
- No prior course work or training in linguistics is required.
*Online test scores:
Online test scores are not acceptable for admissions.
Click here for more details on the application deadline, the application process and the required supporting documents.
| Mode | Minimum Candidature | Maximum Candidature |
| Full-Time | 1 academic year (2 semesters) | 2 academic years (4 semesters) |
| Part-Time (For Singapore residents only) | 1.5 academic years (3 semesters) | 4 academic years (8 semesters) |
To graduate, students have to complete 30 Academic Units (AUs). The programme structure is as follows:
I. Core courses: 3 AUs (1 course)
II. Electives: 27 AUs (9 courses from 3 concentrations)
NOTE:
- Courses offered are subjected to availability of instructors and resources.
- The availability and number of electives offered in each semester may vary from year to year.
I. Compulsory core courses: 3 AUs (1 course)
HG6001 Introduction to Linguistics
II. Electives: 27 AUs (9 courses)
Select any 9 courses from the three concentration areas below.
Language and Cognition
HG6101 Research Methods in Psycholinguistics
HG6102 Language Disorders
HG6103 Neurolinguistics
HG6104 Language Development
HG6105 Multilingualism and Cognition
HG6106 Communication Sciences
HG6107 Reading and Literacy
HG6108 Language & Cognition for Psycholinguistics
Language and Society
HG6201 Research Methods in Sociolinguistics
HG6202 Investigating Discourse
HG6203 Sociolinguistics
HG6204 Multilingual Societies
HG6205 Englishes around the World
HG6206 Languages Then and Now
HG6207 Language and Technology
HG6208 Quantitative Methods for Linguistics Corpora
HG6209 Language and the Computer
HG6210 Linguistics Approaches to Intercultural Communications
Language Structure
HG6301 Structure of Sounds
HG6302 Structure of Words
HG6303 Structure of Meaning
HG6304 Structure of Sentences
HG6305 Structure of Interaction
View course descriptions in this link.
Graduates of the MA in Linguistics programme are equipped with a versatile and interdisciplinary set of skills that opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. The programme emphasises and hones analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and effective communication skills. These are skills that are highly valued across industries.
Possible career paths include:
- Media & Journalism – including editorial writing, content creation, and broadcasting
- Translation & Interpretation
- Marketing & Communications
- Publishing & Editing
- Education & Curriculum Development
- Research & Academia
This programme also serves as a conversion pathway for individuals without a background in linguistics, providing a strong foundation for further postgraduate studies such as a PhD in Linguistics or other related fields. It is especially beneficial for those interested in areas like speech and language pathology, language technology, and AI-driven communication solutions.