Theoretical syntax is a branch of linguistics that explores the abstract rules and principles governing sentence structure in human languages. It aims to understand how words combine to form phrases and sentences, and to develop models that explain the underlying mental computations involved in language use. You gain knowledge and understanding of current research in theoretical syntax and are prepared for independent research. On completion of the course, you will be able to formulate appropriate research questions, find and evaluate relevant literature, develop and test new hypotheses, and produce cogent, structured and professionally presented reports.
The course is designed for students who already have a strong background in linguistics and wish to pursue a deeper focus on syntax. Applicants should typically have the equivalent of an undergraduate degree with a majority of course-units taken in linguistics, including prior study of syntax.
Students who have less prior experience with formal linguistics, or limited experience in syntax, may be better suited for our general Linguistics course MA .
The MA Linguistics with a Specialisation in Syntax equips graduates with the necessary skills to carry out advanced research in linguistics with a particular focus on syntax. It additionally provides transferable skills that prepare students for a wide range of careers within and outside of academia, including analytical thinking, problem solving, project management, and writing and oral presentation skills. Depending on module selection, the degree can also provide training in experimental methods, statistical analysis, and computational linguistics. These skills open up opportunities in many different sectors, including language teaching, translating and interpreting, speech, technology, marketing, communication, journalism, management, and law.
Although the degree can be an end in itself, this advanced course is an excellent preparation for independent doctoral research in syntax. Graduates from our specialisation MA courses in linguistics have a very strong track record of securing funded doctoral studentships and have in recent years gone on to research at UCL and other global universities. Recent graduates have also gone on to work in the technology and publishing sectors and 100% of graduates from this route have gone onto work or further study within 15 months of completing their studies (HESA Graduate Outcomes Surveys 2018—2024).