Linguistics and English Language

Information for applicants to our Linguistics and English Language degree programmes.

Linguistics and English Language have a long history at the University of Edinburgh and our teaching staff have an excellent reputation for research in this area. You’ll study a range of topics from the origins of the evolution of language to bilingualism. You’ll be taught by experts addressing important questions as part of their research, as they teach you to ask questions of your own. 

Degree programmes and structures

Need a refresher on the details of the degree programme you've applied for? Our Degree Finder provides more information about your programme, such as:

  • what you will study
  • where you will study
  • career opportunities
  • fees, costs and funding 

Linguistics degree programmes: 2025 entry

English Language degree programmes: 2025 entry

 

A Degree Programme Table (DPT) provides comprehensive information about the structure of a degree programme, including both compulsory and optional courses. The detailed programme content for 2025/26 is available below. 

 

Linguistics and English Language degree structures 2025/26

Why study Linguistics and English Language at Edinburgh?

  • We’re ranked 4th in the UK and 7th in the world for linguistics in the QS World University rankings by Subject 2025. 
  • We’re ranked 3rd in the UK and 7th in the world for English Language in the QS World University rankings by Subject 2025. 
  • Linguistics and 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 also conduct word-leading research in sociolinguistics and language variation, the history of linguistic thought, language acquisitions, and the study of language context. We are a leading centre for the study of language change and historical linguistics. 
  • Learning community led by experts; our community includes the largest concentration of language scientists in the UK who are internationally recognised experts in the theoretical and empirical study of major areas of language structure: syntax, semantics, pragmatics, phonetics, phonology and morphology.  
  • We offer an unusually wide range of courses in English language so you can choose options that fit your particular interest and skills.  
  • You can also study the Scots language, which has its own rich linguistic and literary tradition. 

Have you applied for a joint honours degree? Don't forget to look at the information for each of your subjects. 

Not sure which School looks after the other subject of your degree? Check our School list for information on the subjects they manage. 

College of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences: Schools and subjects 


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