Combining elements of linguistics, computer science, engineering and psychology
We have an outstanding international reputation in many areas of Linguistics and English Language research.
We can offer expert supervision across a wide range of topics, including:
- Developmental linguistics, including first and second language acquisition
- Discourse Analysis
- Historical English linguistics, including the syntax, morphology, and phonology from the earliest periods to the present day
- Language evolution
- Linguistic fieldwork
- Morphology, including word formation
- Phonetics and phonology, including diachronic phonology and the phonology of varieties of English and their history
- Scots
- Sociolinguistics
- Speech technology
- Syntax and semantics, including theoretical syntax, descriptive syntax of English, diachronic syntax and both lexical and formal semantics
- Various theoretical approaches to the study of language
Why study Linguistics & English Language at Edinburgh?
- Linguistics & English Language is rated 3rd in the UK by Times Higher Education for the quality and breadth of the research using the latest Research Excellence Framework (REF 2021).
- 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.
Showcasing Language Sciences at Edinburgh
Funding opportunities
There are a number of funding opportunities available to Linguistics & English Language students. A full list of funding opportunities can be found on the University Scholarships website. The scholarships funding search allows you to filter results to your requirements.
Explore all of the funding opportunities available to Linguistics & English Language students
Deadlines for funding applications vary for each funding source - please make sure to check the specific deadlines for the funding opportunities you wish to apply for and make sure that you submit your application in good time.
When to apply
We operate a gathered field approach to applications. You may submit your application at any time.
All complete applications that satisfy our minimum entry requirements will be placed on a shortlist and held until the next batch processing deadline. Applications will then be ranked and offers made to the top candidates.
Find out more about the degree programme and how to apply:
How to apply
References
You must submit two references with your application.
Research area
It is often a good idea to contact potential supervisors prior to making an application, and we strongly encourage you to do so, and to indicate potential supervisors in your application.
Research proposal
In addition to the supporting documents requested on the application form, you should include a research proposal.
Your prospective supervisors, in conjunction with the relevant subject Postgraduate Adviser, will consider your research proposal to assess whether they are able to take you on as a student.
Connect with us
If you have any programme-specific enquiries please get in touch with the Postgraduate Research Director:
Professor John E. Joseph (Postgraduate Research Director)
Feel free to get in touch with our friendly Postgraduate Team with any questions you might have about academic or English language requirements, course information, enquiries about your application and information on arriving at the University.
Postgraduate Research Administration Team (MScR/PhD enquiries):
Email: pplspgoffice@ed.ac.uk
Visit the PhD Linguistics & English Language webpage:
PhD Linguistics & English Language
How to apply and fees & funding information:
Degree Finder for PhD Linguistics & English Language
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