MA

Summary of the MA Linguistics at Goethe University and Applicant Checklist

The Master’s Programme LINGUISTICS covers specific theoretical and empirical issues of explanatory language analysis as well as diverse areas of application of linguistic research. As a scientific qualification, the Programme exposes students to research initiatives and to the current state of basic research in linguistics in the areas of phonology, syntax, semantics, language acquisition research, psycho-linguistics and neuro-linguistics.

General prerequisites for the Master’s programme LINGUISTICS are

1. a Bachelor’s degree from the Goethe University in LINGUISTICS or
2. a degree from a German university in the same or a similar field of study with a standard study period of at least six semesters which is at least equivalent
3. a degree from a foreign university in the same or a similar field of study with a standard study period of at least six semesters which is at least equivalent.

What is meant by theoretical linguistics?

Theoretical linguistics as taught at Frankfurt University involves using logical and mathematical tools in the analysis of language, as is standard in theories like the Minimalist Program, Montague Grammar, Optimality Theory, or Head-Driven Phrase Structure Grammar.

Please note that it is not a program in English Linguistics. Therefore, a BA in theoretical linguistics as described above or equivalent qualification is required to participate in the program. A BA in Applied Linguistics, in English and Literature, in teaching of English or in English translation is not enough to ensure a successful application.

Applicant Checklist

Before applying to the programme, please ask yourself whether the following 3 statements fully apply to you.

1. I have a Bachelor’s degree in formal, theoretical linguistics that is equivalent to the Bachelor’s degree of linguistics at Frankfurt University.

2. I have taken at least an introductory and an advanced class in each of the following topics:

• formal phonetics and/or phonology
• formal morphology
• formal syntax
• formal semantics.

3. I can provide proof of my English skills in one of the following ways:

English skills at the level B2 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This can be proven via:

– A bachelor’s degree with English as the instruction language.

– A standardized test completed no more than 2 years prior to the time of application. The following certifications are recognized:

a. TOEFL (Internet: score of at least 110, computer: score of at least 270)

b. IELTS (at least 6.5 in each section)

c. Cambridge First, Advanced or Proficient (at least `good’ in each section)

If one or more of these statements do not apply to you, then please do not submit an application to our program!