Linguistics (PhD)
In this PhD program, you’ll study linguistics, building a broad and deep understanding of language. You’ll work under our faculty to tackle cutting-edge questions. We offer research specialization in theoretical linguistics, applied linguistics and Indigenous language revitalization.
This program will give you concrete skills in research and analysis via your coursework in the required phonology and syntax courses plus your electives. You'll also complete a candidacy requirement. This degree culminates with a doctoral dissertation.
| Expected length | Project or thesis | Course-based |
|---|---|---|
| 4 years | Yes | No |
Quick facts
- Program options:
- Doctorate
- Study options:
- Full-time study
- Program delivery:
- On-campus
- Dynamic learning:
- Co-op optional
Outcomes
Students in this program will:
- appreciate the complexity of linguistic representation in the human mind, and how this representation is shaped, as we acquire and use language
- develop a solid grounding in core areas of linguistics: phonology and syntax
- have an opportunity to further explore phonology and syntax as well as phonetics, morphology, sociolinguistics, language documentation and acquisition, or Indigenous language revitalization as research areas
- develop an ability to articulate an appreciation for the richness and diversity of languages
- develop skills in a variety of research methodologies and their use in linguistics
- develop skills in describing, analyzing, explaining, interpreting and evaluating various linguistic data and phenomena
- develop an ability to contribute to the field of linguistics
Find a supervisor
All graduate students in this program must have a faculty member who serves as their academic supervisor. When you apply:
- you must list a potential supervisor on your application
- this faculty member must agree to be your supervisor and recommend your admission
To find a potential supervisor, review the faculty contacts. When you've found a faculty member whose research complements your own, contact them by email.
Program details
Providing you accurate admission requirements, application deadlines, tuition fee estimates and scholarships depends on your situation. Tell us about yourself:
Program details
Application deadlines
September entry – apply by January 15
September entry – apply by January 15
Admission requirements
- completion of a master’s degree (or equivalent) in linguistics from a university recognized by UVic
- a minimum overall A- average in all master’s coursework
- proof of English language proficiency if first language is not English*
*The minimum required scores to be admitted to this program are:
- TOEFL: the minimum score is 600 on the standard paper-based test, 250 on the computer-based test, or 100 on the internet-based test
- IELTS: the minimum score is 7 on all components of the test
Learn more about language requirements, including allowable exemptions and tests.
Review our general admission requirements for more information.
Program specific requirements
You must include the following as part of your application:
- a letter of intent (maximum 2 pages) outlining:
- why you chose to apply to the UVic linguistics graduate program
- how your background has prepared you for this program
- what area of study you hope to specialize in
- transcripts from the post-secondary institutions at which you have studied
- two letters of reference
- your most up-to-date curriculum vitae (résumé)
- a writing sample: maximum 5 pages of a publication or major term paper that represents your experience in linguistics (and/or related fields), and writing style. Partial papers are acceptable.
- completion of a master’s degree (or equivalent) in linguistics from a university recognized by UVic
- a minimum overall A- average in all master’s coursework
- proof of English language proficiency if first language is not English*
*The minimum required scores to be admitted to this program are:
- TOEFL: the minimum score is 600 on the standard paper-based test, 250 on the computer-based test, or 100 on the internet-based test
- IELTS: the minimum score is 7 on all components of the test
Learn more about language requirements, including allowable exemptions and tests.
Review our general admission requirements for more information.
Program specific requirements
You must include the following as part of your application:
- a letter of intent (maximum 2 pages) outlining:
- why you chose to apply to the UVic linguistics graduate program
- how your background has prepared you for this program
- what area of study you hope to specialize in
- transcripts from the post-secondary institutions at which you have studied
- two letters of reference
- your most up-to-date curriculum vitae (résumé)
- a writing sample: maximum 5 pages of a publication or major term paper that represents your experience in linguistics (and/or related fields), and writing style. Partial papers are acceptable.
Completion requirements
Funding & aid
Tuition & fees
Estimated minimum program cost*
* Based on an average program length. For a per term fee breakdown view the tuition fee estimator.
Estimated values determined by the tuition fee estimator shall not be binding to the University of Victoria.
Ready to apply?
You can start your online application to UVic by creating a new profile or using an existing one.
Faculties & departments
Need help?
Contact Emmanuelle Guenette at sllcstudentsupport@uvic.ca or 250-721-7363.