This degree programme is not fully described in English. For more and legally binding information, please select "Deutsch" in the top right menu (globe).
Linguistics and Phonetics
Master of Arts (M.A. Dual Major)
| Standard period of study | 4 semesters |
|---|---|
| Start of study | Winter semester , Summer semester |
| Teaching language | German |
| Combinability | Dual-subject master’s degree programme, combined with a second subject |
| Credit points | Subject A: 51 CP + Subject B: 39 CP + Master’s Thesis (in Subject A): 30 CP = 120 CP |
Course description
In the field of study Linguistics and Phonetics, linguistic structures and skills are analysed from various perspectives using various methods. As cognitive, social, cultural, biological and physical aspects play a role in the understanding of language, this subject stands at the interface between the life sciences, social sciences and humanities. The dual-subject master’s degree programme Linguistics and Phonetics in Cologne is research-oriented and combines thorough methodological training with the following specialisation opportunities:
- General Linguistics
- Historical and Comparative Linguistics
- Phonetics
1. Content and study objectives: General Linguistics
The field of study General Linguistics offers a solid education in the description of linguistic phenomena and their theoretical modelling. This centres around the diversity of linguistic structures and functions and thus the question of to what extent languages can differ and which patterns and structures are universal. All linguistic levels are taken into consideration in this, from speech sounds and grammatical forms to conversational interactions.
2. Content and study objectives: Historical and Comparative Linguistics
Historical and Comparative Linguistics looks at various aspects of linguistic change on the basis of philological text analysis in the field of the interrelated Indo-European languages. Students are familiarised with the most important representatives of this language family to create a basis for language comparison and the reconstruction of the common ancestor.
3. Content and study objectives: Phonetics
The objective is a thorough education in laboratory phonology, especially in prosody/intonation and articulatory modelling across languages. In addition to data collection and analysis methods in the field and laboratory, students learn how to independently develop phonological hypotheses and verify them in experiments as well as how to present qualitative and quantitative results.
Requirements
This programme is right for you if you have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or equivalent in one of the subjects listed in the Master's admission regulations and would like to deepen your specialist knowledge and/or specialize in a specific subject area. Binding information on the admission requirements can be found in the admission regulations for the Master's programme, which you will find above under "Important documents at a glance".
Dokumente/Downloads
Language proficiency and other requirements
Language proficiency is required for certain compulsory elective modules. Proof of this proficiency must be provided to the department in order to enrol on the specified modules; for further details, please see ‘Subject-specific regulations’.
Language skills may have to be demonstrated upon admission to the master’s degree. You can find more information in the admission regulations.
Career perspectives
A successful master's degree is a prerequisite for a scientific career in teaching and research and is usually essential for doctoral studies. Outside of university, a master's degree also opens up further career opportunities, more responsible positions and the possibility of taking on leadership roles.
Application for the first semester
On the website of the Master's Admissions Office, you will find detailed information on the application procedure for Master's degree programmes at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities.
Only for NC subjects: It is possible to submit a special application under certain circumstances, e.g. if you are an elite athlete or in cases of hardship. You can find information on special applications here.