M.A. in Linguistics

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Requirements for Admission

1. Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in the U.S. or proof of equivalent education in a foreign institution.
2. Undergraduate degree or satisfactory subject preparation in linguistics, a language, or a related field resulting in a satisfactory grade point average (GPA). (If there is a question of sufficient background, a program of leveling courses not to exceed 12 hours will be arrived at in consultation with the graduate advisor.)
3. Competency in both Spanish and English (for Hispanic linguistics only).
4. TOEFL score of 550 or higher for international applicants whose first language is not English or who have not completed a university degree in the U.S.
5. Three letters of recommendation.
6. A brief (two- to three-page) personal statement of purpose.

Degree Requirements (36 hours)

Thesis and Non-Thesis options and hours

There are one thesis and two non-thesis options. Each student must choose one of these options. The thesis option requires LING 5398 and LING 5399, in addition to the requirements of nine (9) core hours and 21 elective hours. The thesis will be presented in an open defense. One non-thesis option involves an extended research paper, which will be presented in an open defense. This option requires LING 5397, in addition to the requirements of nine (9) core hours and 24 elective hours. The second non-thesis option involves extended coursework, requiring nine (9) core hours and 27 elective hours. With this option, there will be a final open oral and/or written examination in the candidate’s chosen primary area of study. In more detail, the requirements for each degree option, including the concentration possibilities mentioned above, are as follows: