Linguistics and Philosophy (Placement Year) Lancaster University

Our Linguistics and Philosophy degree at Lancaster offers a compelling opportunity to delve into the intricate relationship between language and philosophical principles from around the globe. You will be taught by world-leading experts and will explore how language and philosophy impact human experience in real-world contexts.

In Linguistics you’ll address the most important topics in linguistic research using the very latest tools and techniques. You’ll investigate the link between language and thought, how language is used to spread disinformation online, and how language intersects with psychology and forensic investigations.

In Philosophy you will engage with fundamental questions about human existence. By applying philosophy in real-world scenarios, you will understand its role in addressing global, social and political challenges.

Why study Linguistics and Philosophy at Lancaster?

• Study with the best. Linguistics at Lancaster is ranked 2nd in the world by QS 2026

• Engage in philosophy as an active practice, learning from philosophers who are involved in developing the research, ideas, and theory you will study

• Explore core areas of linguistic theory such as phonetics, phonology, grammar and pragmatics

• Study a curriculum that draws upon multiple philosophical traditions including, western, Chinese, continental and feminist thought

• Gain valuable work experience with internship opportunities through the Richardson Institute for Peace Studies, known for its cutting-edge research

What aspects of Linguistics does the course cover?

Language is central to human behaviour, societies and cultures. In Linguistics you’ll address fundamental questions concerning the nature of language. You’ll gain a comprehensive grounding in areas such as phonetics, grammar, semantics and pragmatics before applying this knowledge to understand language use across a range of real-world contexts. Guided by our supportive and welcoming staff, you might explore a range of topics ranging from politics, law, media, medicine and technology. You’ll explore questions such as:

• How is language represented in the mind/brain and how is it related to culture and society?

• How do the world’s languages vary and how does the language you speak shape your experiences?

• How is language learned and how can it be impaired?

• How can technology be harnessed to study patterns in the way language is used and changes?

Through such explorations, you’ll learn to ask critical questions about the language around you and gain skills required by a range of employers.

What will I study in Philosophy?

In your Philosophy studies at Lancaster, you will gain strong foundational knowledge, building confidence in key areas of the discipline, before going on to examine specialist topics of particular relevance to your interests, and to your joint honours programme.

From core study in epistemology, metaphysics and history of philosophy to optional study in ethics, political philosophy, philosophy of science and more, you will leave your degree with a deeper understanding of multiple philosophical traditions, themes and topics, and their relevance to important historical and contemporary challenges. And you will have developed the critical thinking, reasoning and communication skills essential to engaging in, understanding and influencing the contemporary world.

As a Linguistics and Philosophy student, you will study philosophy in your second year that will directly enrich and draw on your study of Linguistics. Examining debates in language, communication and knowledge, you will consider the social aspects of our collective discourse and gain a deeper appreciation of the connections between the two subjects of your degree.

Your Placement Year

Sometimes known as a year in industry, your placement year will take place between your second and final year of study and this will extend your degree to four years.

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

A levels

AAB

Access to HE Diploma

36 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 9 Level 3 credits at Merit

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDD

BTEC in combination with A levels

A level at grade B plus BTEC(s) at DD, or A levels at grade AB plus BTEC at D

International Baccalaureate

35 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Distinction overall

GCSE requirements

English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.