Doctor of Philosophy in Language Science

The Ph.D. program in Language Science provides interdisciplinary training across a broad range of topics relating to the scientific study of language that spans fields such as linguistics, cognitive science, psychology, computer science, philosophy, logic, neuroscience, speech, hearing, education, and engineering.

This integrative approach to the science of language explores interfaces between traditional frameworks, fostering a more complete understanding of the human communication system. Emphasis is placed on modern techniques of theory construction and empirical investigation, and students are prepared for research and teaching careers in academia, industry, and government. Special attention is given to providing hands-on research experience and equipping students with sophisticated quantitative methods and technical communication skills.

Scholars in the department seek answers to questions such as: How do children and adults learn language How is language used strategically in social situations How do the multiple languages spoken by a multilingual person interact in their brain What explains the huge variety of languages we see in the world How does the brain manage to coordinate the complex processes involved in speaking and hearing in real time, and how could we design computer systems to do the same thing

UCI language science faculty publish regularly in top academic journals, and graduate students have ample opportunities to publish alongside them. Faculty and graduate students consistently present research at conferences and universities across the globe.

Hold a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognized academic institution with degree standards equivalent to those of the University of California
Have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0
Applications are also welcomed from students with backgrounds in other areas, including cognitive science, psychology, computer science, neuroscience, logic, philosophy, mathematics, engineering, hearing, speech, language studies, education, and anthropology. Decisions on admissions are based on Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores for tests taken within the past five years, official transcripts of all college coursework, a statement of purpose, at least three letters of recommendation, and at least one sample of technical writing. Applicants whose primary language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in English for admission consideration.
We do not require applicant file scores from any of the various GRE (subject) tests available
Sample of Technical Writing
TOEFL Speaking Sub-Score Requirement for Financial Support Consideration: 26/30
IELTS Speaking Sub-Score Requirement for Financial Support Consideration: 8/9
TOEFL iBT minimum score of 80
IELTS - An overall minimum score of 7.0 for admission, with a score of no less than 6.0 on any individual module.