Welcome to Linguistics and English Language (LEL) at the University of Edinburgh
At the University of Edinburgh, Linguistics and English Language have a long and distinguished history. Our teaching and research is highly interdisciplinary.
We have an illustrious history of investigating the linguistics of English and Scots. We consider how linguistic theory can be developed in relation to English and how English can be better understood through the insights offered by linguistic theory.
Linguistics is a new subject for nearly all undergraduates so no prior knowledge is required, and as the field is so varied, it offers you many ways to acquire a range of skills much valued by employers.
Why study Linguistics & English Language at Edinburgh?
- We're ranked 4th in the UK and 7th in the world for linguistics (QS World University Rankings by subject 2025).
- We're ranked 3rd in the UK and 7th in the world for English language and literature (QS World University Rankings by subject 2025).
- You will be part of a learning community which includes one of the largest concentration of language scientists in the UK
- We have world-leading experts in the theoretical and empirical study of the major areas of language structure: syntax, semantics, pragmatics, phonetics, phonology and morphology.
Linguistics & English Language sample lecture
View a sample lecture recorded from a recent online information session. This will give you an insight into what you might learn in your first year at Edinburgh and allow you to explore the subject in more detail.
Our degree programmes
Single honours
Four-year undergraduate degree programmes
MA (Hons) Linguistics UCAS code Q100
MA (Hons) Linguistics & English Language QQ31
MA (Hons) English Language UCAS code Q302
Joint honours
We offer a wide variety of joint honours degree programmes:
Degree programme content
Linguistics and English Language first year compulsory courses:
Linguistics and English Language 1A - This course offers a brief introduction to the study of language in general and of English in particular.
Linguistics and English Language 1B - Following on from 1A you will develop the tools and knowledge needed to investigate in a systematic way the different subsystems of language, dealing with sound, meaning, word and sentence structure and how these subsystems are subject to variation and change.
Optional courses:
You will take 80 credits of optional courses. There are a wide range of courses to choose from and you might choose based on enhancing or complementing your degree programme, or choose something based on interest.
Find out more about the compulsory and optional courses in these degree programmes:
- Linguistics programme structure
- English Language programme structure
- Linguistics & English Language programme structure
Please note this programme structure is for the current course content and availability is subject to change.
Teaching and support
Types of Teaching
In Years 1 and 2 teaching is mostly conducted in lectures and small group meetings called tutorials, where you will have the chance to discuss topics in greater detail.
Lectures comprise up to 300 students and tutorials normally comprise around 12 students.
Usually you will have around 12 contact hours per week in linguistics courses. In Years 3 and 4 the emphasis shifts to more specialised, seminar-based courses and independent study.
Student adviser
You will be allocated a named Student Adviser. The Student Adviser will support you during your time at University and will work alongside academic staff and teaching teams for more specialised academic support.
Linguistics Society
LingSoc, the Linguistics and English Language Society, is a society for appreciation, study and conversation of language. The society was created by students who wanted to provide a forum that extended beyond the classroom to provide support, friendship and a community.
Careers in linguistics and English language
Recent examples of roles linguistics and English language graduates have gone onto include:
- Teacher
- Event Operations Specialist
- Communications Manager
- Marketing Executive
- Assistant Editor
- Data Analyst
Student experience
Caitlin Wilson, MA Linguistics, Class of 2022
"A degree in Linguistics has taught me so much more than just simply theoretical knowledge. I have learnt how to do my own research, design my own experiments, lead my own projects, and so much more.
My favourite part of the degree has been being able to work with amazing staff. I’ve had great experiences studying and working alongside staff members who have always been ready to help out and offer advice when needed. I’ve also enjoyed being able to choose from such a wide range of courses. I have been able to study Historical Phonology alongside taking computational coding courses."
Find out more about linguistics and English language
We’ve put together a list of resources to get you thinking about linguistics and English language:
- Steven Pinker: The Language Instinct (Penguin) - A solid introduction to develop your understanding of how our minds enable us to use language.
- Martha Barnette and Grant Barrett: A Way with Words - A fun and fascinating podcast that discusses linguistics, slang, new words, jokes, riddles, word games, grammar, old sayings, word origins, regional dialects, family expressions, and speaking and writing well.
- Arrival (2016) - There aren’t too many mainstream films with a linguist as the main protagonist. This thoughtful film shows the insight that linguistics brings to bear on understanding and communication
- Read the latest Language Sciences news from the school: News | The University of Edinburgh
Connect with us
For enquiries about entry requirements, admissions and your application:
Email: future.students@ed.ac.uk
How to apply and fees & funding information:
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