Study the phonology, syntax, semantics, and development of the English Language
This intensive programme can function either as a stand-alone masters qualification or as a basis for further postgraduate study, typically at PhD level.
Joining an internationally acclaimed centre for research and teaching in the linguistic study of English, you will explore in depth a global language with a rich history and great social and geographical variation. You will be taught by world-leading experts who will give you a detailed awareness of the ways in which English is used in Britain and around the world.
The MSc in English Language at the University of Edinburgh is unrivalled in its scope; the range of courses on the English Language that you may take is unique to this degree and reflects the broad range of research interests amongst the staff in our school, all of whom are world-leading experts in their fields.
Linguistics and English Language at the University of Edinburgh is one of the world’s highest-ranking departments in this subject area, attracting staff, students, and visiting speakers from all over the world. There simply is no better place to learn all about the fascinating language that is English.
Why study English Language at Edinburgh?
- 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 taught by world-leading experts who will give you a detailed awareness of the ways in which English is used in Britain and around the world.
Showcasing Language Sciences at Edinburgh
Programme structure
This programme comprises two semesters of taught compulsory and optional courses, followed by a dissertation.
You will take compulsory and option courses. The programme focuses initially on the structure of English, and also offers option courses on aspects of the history of English, on current varieties of the language and on a variety of approaches to the study of the language and English linguistics.
You can also choose option courses from a wide range of other areas of linguistic study. You may be able to take a course from other programmes in the School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, and in some cases, from elsewhere in the University.
Most courses will be taught in the form of lectures and seminars, though some courses will have a substantial practical or project work element. Each course will have different forms of assessment, ranging from exams to extended essays and small research projects.
Course options
Compulsory courses
- Introduction to Language Research OR Statistics and Experimental Design
- Introduction to Phonology OR Introduction to Phonology and Phonetics
- Introduction to Syntax
Optional courses
Optional courses previously offered include:
- Reading Old English
- Scots and Scottish English
- Dialects of English in Britain and Ireland
- Language Variation and Change
- Historical Linguistics
- Early Germanic Dialects
- Global Englishes
- Cognitive Linguistics
- Middle English
- Historical Phonology
- Stylistics
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:
Connect with us
If you have any programme-specific enquiries please get in touch with the programme director:
Dr Lisa Gotthard (Programme 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
How to apply and fees & funding information:
Degree Finder for MSc English Language
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