Master of Arts in Linguistics

Master (Coursework)

Provided by

Programme Type

Full-time, Part-time

SoH Graduate (Coursework) programme

[email protected]
Enquire here

Singapore's rich linguistic diversity creates a unique environment for studying various linguistic subdisciplines. The Master of Arts in Linguistics programme at NTU is well-timed and essential. It equips students with the skills to observe, plan, and effectively communicate research findings, preparing them for future research careers.

This multidisciplinary approach also fosters analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and argumentation skills that are valuable for further studies or future careers. Additionally, it offers versatile skills applicable in resolving communication issues, studying language disorders, and addressing practical language concerns across various fields.

  • 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 once a year in 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 with a minimum of 7 for each skill module.
  • No prior course work or training in linguistics is required.

*Online test scores:

In view of Covid-19, the following online test scores are acceptable for admissions for the AY2023-2024 intake by the Office of Admissions (OA). These tests must have been taken no later than 31 December 2023. Test report reflecting date beyond 31 December 2023 will not be eligible to meet admissions requirements. 

  1. IELTS Indicator
  2. IELTS for UKVI
ModeMinimum CandidatureMaximum Candidature
Full-Time1 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

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

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

Professionals and executives who have a passion for languages would benefit from acquiring specialised knowledge in Linguistics that will enhance their expertise in this field. The holistic and interdisciplinary approach to teaching will equip students with a versatile skillset that would enrich their career prospects in various sectors such as media, healthcare, education, and AI, among others.