Linguistics is the study of the capacity to use language. At UCL students investigate the sound patterns (Phonetics and Phonology) and grammatical structures (Syntax) of the world's languages, and how meanings are expressed through language use (Semantics and Pragmatics). They can explore a range of topics including language acquisition and processing, multilingualism, sociolinguistics, language evolution, and animal communication. Students on the Linguistics (International Programme) BA spend their third year at one of our international partner institutions.

Course overview

In the first year, your modules are all compulsory, providing a broad foundation in linguistics and helping you assess where your own interests and strengths lie. In addition to compulsory modules in core areas of semantics, pragmatics, phonetics, phonology and syntax, students will also take a module in language acquisition.

In the second year, students take four intermediate modules covering the core areas of linguistics. They will also take at least two elective modules in Linguistics, and up to two UCL-wide elective modules.

The third year is the year abroad. You will spend it studying at a partner institution. Places are subject to availability and competitive. You must maintain an average mark of 60% during your first two years to be allowed on the year abroad.

In their final year, students undertake a 30-credit research project, involving a deep and sustained study of a subject in which they are especially interested.

Final year students will also take three advanced modules from the core areas of linguistics, one intermediate or advanced module offered in any area of linguistics, and two further Linguistics or UCL-wide elective modules.

The elective modules you take in years two and your final year may include modules offered outside Linguistics, for example, many students choose to take language courses taught by the UCL Centre for Languages & International Education.

Assessment

Each module is assessed and examined separately, often by a combination of essays, exercises and examinations. Your performance in a module is always assessed in the same academic year in which you take it.

Employability

In addition to subject-specific skills, you will also acquire the analytical, investigative and study skills essential for most graduate careers, which could include law, computing, commerce and industry. The year abroad can give you deep insights into a different country's culture and could allow you to improve your knowledge or a foreign language.