Exploring language within the context of society

In the Master’s programme Language and Society you will examine the role of language within a society and how a society can, in turn, shape a language. Providing real-world examples of core linguistics concepts and theory, the programme focuses on the analysis of language use and variation. You will explore how and why languages vary within particular communities, differences in language use and policy, and the influence of issues such as multilingualism and computer-mediated communication.

Specialise in one of seven European language communities

The Master’s in Language and Society offers you the unique opportunity to specialise in one of seven European language communities. With experts in English, French, German, Italian, Scandinavian, Slavonic and Spanish, you will be able to develop your own expertise in the linguistics of your language of choice, all the while improving your own productive and receptive proficiency.

Knowledge of language, analytic skills and you

The Language and Society programme is designed to help you untangle the complexity of language in concrete ways. You will develop analytical skills that prepare you for your own research and learn to work with linguistic data, in particular collecting, processing, analysing and interpreting. You will also gain effective communicative competence, spoken and written, in both your language of choice and English. Moreover, you will be able to tailor the programme to your own interests through a broad range of complementary electives.

Degree certificate

Language and Society is an accredited degree programme of Linguistics. After successful completion of this programme, you will receive a legally accredited Master’s degree in Linguistics and the title Master of Arts (MA). 

The Master's in Language and Society does not give you access to a post-Master teacher training programme.