Master of Linguistics
MLing
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Duration
1 year full-time
Entry times
Semester 1 or 2 (February or July)
Fees Estimate
Scholarships
Pathways
Pathways include:
- Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Download Brochure
Overview
This 180-point Master’s degree is an advanced programme offering specialised courses in linguistic analysis and a significant research component.
Master of Linguistics (MLing) students will analyse the relationship between a language and its 'social life'. In an Aotearoa New Zealand context, this means understanding how English has developed over time, and how it continues to change as a marker of Kiwi identity, as well as understanding the relationship, both past and present, between English and te reo Māori.
UC is ranked 78th= in the world for Linguistics (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2022).
Applicants for this degree need to have either:
- a bachelor’s degree with a major in Linguistics, with at least a B+ Grade Point Average in 60 points in Linguistics at 300-level; or
- any bachelor’s degree, and a Graduate Diploma in Arts in Linguistics, with at least a B+ Grade Point Average in 60 points in Linguistics at 300-level; or
- a bachelor’s degree with a major in Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, Philosophy, Computer Science, a language, or a different major approved by the Head of Department of Linguistics, with at least a B+ Grade Point Average in 60 points of 300-level courses in the majoring subject, and achieved at least a B+ in LING400 English Structures (a distance-learning course which runs over the summer); or
- other approved qualifications of an equivalent standard.
In addition, all students must be approved to enrol.
If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements.
For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Linguistics or use the admission requirements checker.
How to apply
You can apply online at myUC. Find out more about how to apply for graduate and postgraduate qualifications.
The MLing is a 180-point programme that consists of:
- a compulsory thesis, worth 90 points
- 90 points of courses from 400 or 600-level Linguistics and/or elective courses from the schedule.
Full-time students must complete within 1 year. Part-time students must complete the degree within 2–3 years.
You can choose from either:
- 90 points from 400 or 600-level Linguistics courses (excluding LING400 and LING480)
OR
- 60 points from 400 or 600-level Linguistics courses
- 30 points from these options
It is recommended you take no more than two taught courses in a given semester.
All students also complete the thesis course LING691 MLing Thesis.
You can go on to study a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Linguistics.
Graduates of the Master in Linguistics will be highly trained in the theories and contemporary methodologies of Linguistics and skillful in a range of complementary analytical, critical, and linguistic skills.
These will include an understanding of:
- the internal structure of language and languages, including knowledge of phonetics, phonology, and syntax
- the relationship between English and other languages, including te reo Māori
- key geographical and social determinants of variation in language
- the role of language in constructing individual and group identities
- how language produces and reflects cultural change and difference.
Useful information:
- Read what other UC postgraduate students have gone on to achieve in their studies and careers in our student and graduate profiles.
- Te Rōpū Rapuara | UC Careers can help you to achieve the career you want, connect with employers, or find a job.
- For research into career destinations by qualification, visit Te Pōkai Tara | Universities New Zealand website.
- Find out more about what you can do with a degree from UC.
- Come along to an upcoming information event for prospective postgraduate students.
See Tuition Fee Structure for more information
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) |
| 2023 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $11,535 |
| 2022 | 180 | Fee estimate. Actual fee will be determined by course selection. | $11,226 |
| Year | Points | Info | Fees (NZD) | Fees (NZD) Excl GST |
| 2022 | 180 | $42,300 | $36,783 | |
| 2023 | 180 | $43,500 | $37,826 |
Contact us
For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Master of Linguistics.
For study planning help, contact the Department of Linguistics and English Language.
Te Kaupeka Toi Tangata | Faculty of Arts
Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | University of Canterbury
Private Bag 4800
Christchurch 8140
New Zealand
Phone +64 3 369 3377
Email linguistics@canterbury.ac.nz