Master of Arts in Linguistics

The University of Florida offers both thesis and non-thesis Master of Arts in Linguistics degrees. The MA prepares students for more advanced work in Linguistics as well as a variety of careers in academics, teaching, and industry. The goal of our program is to train students to identify and describe patterns in languageits structure and its useand to apply this knowledge in the classroom and in the field. Gaining command of the necessary analytical and descriptive skills entails significant writing and hands on work with natural language data. MA students are encouraged to engage in a research project in their area of interest under the supervision of a supervisory committee.

A recognized baccalaureate, graduate or professional degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or a comparable degree from an international institution.
We use a variety of criteria in determining which applicants will be most successful in our program. These include but are not limited to: GRE (not required) and TOEFL/IELTS scores, undergraduate and graduate academic records and prior preparation, letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and the applicant's statement of purpose. We also consider how well the applicant's interests match faculty expertise and departmental emphases. In most cases, a brief virtual interview is also requested. Given this highly competitive admission process, not being admitted to our graduate program is not necessarily a statement about the applicant's academic potential. Many qualified applicants are simply not a good fit for our program.
Statement of Purpose
This is a statement of your academic preparation and future plans. Indicate your interests and what area(s) of linguistics you intend to focus on in your studies and research. Also, indicate why you believe the UF Linguistics Department is a good match for you. Be as specific as you can. The text box in the online application is limited to 400-500 words, so please be mindful of the space remaining in the character counter. The essay cannot exceed the space available in the text box.
Transcripts (in English and in the original language)
Under Transcripts, upload official transcripts from each post secondary institution you have attended.
Resum (optional)
Under Resum/Other, use the Upload Resum button to upload a copy of your CV or resum.
Writing sample
If you are applying for the PhD, please upload a representative writing sample as a supplementary document with the Upload Other button under Transcripts/Other. A draft of your MA thesis or a research paper youve written for a class is sufficient.
Three letters of recommendation
You should request three letters of recommendation from people who can comment on your intellectual promise and skills that would make you a good researcher and graduate student. At least one letter should be from someone who has direct academic experience with you. Please have recommendations submitted electronically through the online application system.
GRE scores (optional)
Have ETS send your official GRE scores to the University of Florida.
Applicants with a bachelor's degree only, a minimum grade point average of B (3.0), calculated from all grades and credits after the semester where the applicant reached 60 semester hours or 90 quarter hours is required. For applicants from countries where English is not the ofcial language, a minimum score on one of these English Language Skills tests, IELTS - 6.0,TOEFL IBT- 80, PBT- 550.