About Linguistics (by thesis and coursework), PhD - at Lancaster University

Take your PhD with one of the best Linguistics departments in the world. We are ranked 3rd in the world for Linguistics in the QS World Rankings 2025.

This PhD programme understands Applied Linguistics as research into language with a relevance to real-world issues and proposals are accepted in a wide range of topics. By combining your PhD studies with a set of taught modules, this programme is designed to broaden your knowledge of relevant research and research methodologies. Many of our students are professionals who are balancing PhD studies with full-time careers, and this contributes to the rich and stimulating academic environment this programme offers.

The programme is designed for you to simultaneously complete your coursework and develop your thesis. In your first year of study you will complete compulsory modules in research methodology and in applied linguistics that are taught by distance. In addition, you have the opportunity to take additional modules from the department’s MA programmes and the Faculty’s Research Training Programme with a choice of modules either on-campus or by distance.

One of the strengths of this programme is the flexibility it allows in pursuing your PhD – you have the choice to either study on campus in Lancaster, or from home. You may study full-time or part-time but have the option to switch at any point during your studies. The compulsory modules in research methodology and linguistics are taught online, while for MA modules there is a choice of both on-site and distance learning available.

Regardless whether you study in Lancaster or from home, you must attend two intensive residentials at Lancaster University in the first two years of your studies. During this time you will have the opportunity to complete a portion of the coursework, participate in a graduate student conference, and engage in a range of professional and academic development activities such as sessions on academic writing, presentation skills, and career development as well as attend workshops offered by the university library.

KEY FACTS

• Option to study full time (36 months) or part time (60 months)
• Study on campus in Lancaster or off-campus from home
• 4 compulsory study modules – 2 in research methods and 2 in applied linguistics
• Opportunity to take additional modules from the department’s MA programmes
• 2 intensive residentials at the department in Lancaster

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Entry requirements for this course

Contact Lancaster University to find course entry requirements.

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