Linguistics & Applied Linguistics

The MA in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics is open to graduates (BA or equivalent) from all disciplines who have an interest in Language. It is suitable for those with some prior knowledge of Linguistics as well as those with little or no prior knowledge of Linguistics.

• No prior knowledge of Linguistics is required for admission to the MA programme. The MA is an ab initio degree, applicants who have already completed a BA in Linguistics are not eligible to apply.
• Competence in a language other than English is not required but useful.
• Applicants must have a BA or equivalent, having normally reached a 2H1 or better. Applications with a 2H2 average are considered on a case-by-case basis.
• All students must normally supply references from two academic referees who are able to provide details about the applicant’s academic abilities and motivations. Work references are accepted on a case-by-case basis.
• Students whose first language is not English and who did not complete their prior education through English (or Irish) must take an IELTS test to provide proof of their English language skills. Students are expected to reach a minimum overall score of 6.5 with no band below 6.5 (particularly in writing and speaking).[1]
• Students who fall a bit short (0.5 in one band) of the required scores may consider attending a a 10 week and 7 week course in the Applied Language Center prior to the start of the MA programme.[2] [1] The School may decide to waive the requirement for an IELTS or equivalent test score (normally 6.5 in all four skills) if the candidate provides evidence of having completed one of their university degrees (BA, BSc, MA) through English or at an English-speaking university. Please submit evidence to support your claim that you have completed your entire degree through English along with all the other documents. The School will assess the evidence and let you know. [2] Students joining the 10 week programme are required to have an IELTS of 5.5 with no component below 5.0 (or equivalent). Students joining the 7 week programme are required to have an IELTS of 6.0 with no component below 5.5.
• Documents to be submitted:
• Cover Letter
• CV
• Two academic references
• Transcript (English translation) showing final grade
• IELTS test results (for non- native speakers) You may be eligible for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), as UCD recognises formal, informal, and/or experiential learning. RPL may be awarded to gain Admission and/or credit exemptions on a programme. Please visit the UCD Registry RPL web page for further information at: https://www.ucd.ie/registry/prospectivestudents/admissions/rpl/ Any exceptions are also listed on this webpage.