Graduate Programs
The University of Rochester is an excellent place to pursue graduate studies in Linguistics. We offer degrees at both the M.A. and Ph.D. level. The graduate program in Linguistics at the University of Rochester is situated in the thriving interdisciplinary community of CLS.
At the Master of Arts (M.A.) degree level, we prepare students for further work at the Ph.D. level in Linguistics or related fields, or for employment in teaching or industry. The M.A. program offers the following orientation:
- Training in contemporary linguistic analysis in the generative tradition.
- Experimental investigation of theoretical issues, informed by research on language from adjacent disciplines such as experimental psychology, neuroscience and computer science.
- The pursuit of independent research.
- Teaching experience through a teaching assistantship.
- Preparation for work at the Ph.D. level.
- Preparation for a teaching profession or employment in industry
Through the Ph.D. program in Linguistics, students may enroll in joint Ph.D. programs between Linguistics and other departments within the CLS community, such as Brain and Cognitive Science, Computer Science, Philosophy. Generally these students will work with one Linguistics faculty member as primary advisor, and interact in the larger CLS interdisciplinary community through coursework, lab meetings, reading groups and the ongoing collaborations that Linguistics faculty have within the CLS community. These joint Ph.D. degrees have been very successful, and increasing numbers of Ph.D. candidates are entering our department in this way. For more information on joint doctoral programs, please contact us or consult with your home department.
Admission to the Graduate Program in Linguistics
See the Graduate Studies Bulletin for general admission requirements. All applicants to the Department of Linguistics are required to submit the following materials along with the application:
- Transcripts
- GRE scores
- Three letters of recommendation
In addition, it is strongly recommended that all applicants submit a sample of written work (e.g., a copy of a term paper, senior thesis, etc.). The written sample need not deal with linguistics, as long as it demonstrates the applicant's scholarly ability. If the work is in a language other than English, a summary in English should be attached.
Those applicants whose native language is other than English are required to submit TOEFL scores as well. Applicants with a TOEFL score below 580 are discouraged from applying.
We look for students with strong academic records who show breadth and depth of interests, and the potential for creativity in pursuing a successful linguistics program. A background in linguistics is desirable but not necessary. Candidates should submit completed applications and supporting documents by February 1 to:
- Department of Linguistics
- Attn: Mary Ellen Felten
- 503 Lattimore Hall
- University of Rochester
- Rochester, NY 14627-0096
E-mail inquiries may be sent to: user@ling.rochester.edu (user=mfelten).
M.A. and Ph.D. Requirements
Students are advised to consult the University's Graduate Studies Bulletin for complete information on degree requirements.