Linguistics, Speech and Language Sciences

Newcastle has one of the largest academic communities in the country working in the investigation of human language. We are ranked third in the UK for research power, based on results from the Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) 2008. 

In speech and language sciences, we offer both the MSc in Language Pathology, which provides pre-registration training for speech and language therapists, and the UK’s first MSc in Evidence Based Practice in Communication Disorders. We have three campus clinics, including the renowned North East Aphasia Centre.

Research degrees are also available in all areas of speech and language development and disorders, with a focus on aphasia, motor speech disorders, developmental disorders and health services research. We also offer a new cross-school Integrated PhD in Phonetics and Phonology, with strands for research in first and second language phonology, phonological theory, sociophonetics and language description, and benefiting from a newly refurbished lab featuring state-of the-art articulatory equipment.

In Linguistics, Applied Linguistics and Clinical Linguistics we offer a range of research degrees and taught programmes, bridging theory and application. They cover all major areas of linguistics and a wide range of languages. We also have ongoing large research projects in syntax, phonetics, sociolinguistics corpus analysis, discourse analysis, child and second language acquisition, and use of technology in language learning in Newcastle’s I-Lab Learn, part of  Newcastle University’s Digital Institute.

In linguistics and applied linguistics (see also TESOL /Cross Cultural Communication), all our taught and research programmes provide a springboard to further postgraduate study, or to careers ranging from second language teaching to media and international business, where understanding the structure and use of language is key.

Our MA in Linguistics has three strands allowing you to gain breadth as well as depth in your chosen specialism (English Language, Language Acquisition or European Languages). Research degrees (MPhil and PhD, MLitt, IPhD), offer academic and professional development through individual study in all areas of linguistics or in association with ongoing research projects.

Teaching and research take place in three schools across the University: Modern Languages; English Literature, Language and Linguistics; and Education, Communication and Language Sciences. We also have a University research centre, the Centre for Research in Linguistics and Language Sciences (CRiLLS), which brings together staff and students across all three Schools. CRiLLS offers a rich interdisciplinary research and postgraduate environment, using  the latest software and e-resources, as well as space for training events, seminars and social activities.

Selected programmes have funding for postgraduate students. The NHS pays fees for UK/EU students and provides a means-tested bursary for UK students on the MSc in Language Pathology. We have ESRC studentships in applied linguistics, sociolinguistics and clinical linguistics, as part of the new ESRC Doctoral Training Centre.

Postgraduate degrees in this subject area: