Language and Linguistics, Cognitive Semiotics - Master's Programme
Start
Autumn 2026
Duration
2 years
Level
Master's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
The MA programme in Language and Linguistics consists of seven different specialisations and 18 subject areas. Note, however, that not all specialisations and subject areas are offered every year.
Cognitive semiotics is the trans-disciplinary study of language, communication, media and mind, from the perspective of the concepts meaning and sense. In cognitive semiotics, both qualitative phenomenological analysis and empirical methods, including systematic observations and experimentation, are developed and used. The principal aim is to produce new insights into the interrelations between different communicative/semiotic resources such as language, gestures and pictures, and into their development in children and in human evolution.
The programme consists of compulsory courses common to all specialisations, compulsory courses for each subject area, and elective courses in linguistics.
The teaching is based on lectures and workshops, with a heavy emphasis on discussions and group work.
The academic year is split into two terms. Each term, you will usually take two or four courses, which are all examined separately. Subject specialisation courses and elective courses are offered on a rolling basis.
Term 1: Philosophy of Science for Linguists (7.5 credits) and compulsory subject specialisation courses or elective courses (22.5 credits)
Term 2: Methods in Linguistics (7.5 credits) and compulsory subject specialisation courses or elective courses (22.5 credits)
Term 3: Compulsory subject specialisation courses or elective courses (30 credits)
Term 4: Degree Project – Master's (Two Years) Thesis, (30 credits)
The programme prepares you for a future career in fields where competency in language and linguistics is essential. It also provides you with the academic background you need in order to apply for PhD studies in languages and linguistics throughout Europe and beyond.
As a graduate of the MA in Languages and Linguistics you have different career opportunities available to you. Many graduates continue to doctoral studies at universities throughout Europe and beyond, others work in academia as international coordinators, and research assistants. Some of our students work in the private sector as translators, teachers, consultants, project leaders, project coordinators among others.
Prerequisites
Bachelor’s degree in a language subject or linguistics as the main field of study, or a Bachelor’s degree with semiotics or cognitive science as the main field of study and courses in basic linguistics of at least 15 credits Bachelor’s thesis, or other equivalent academic work, relevant to the chosen specialization English course 6 (advanced proficiency)
Make sure you understand and fulfil the entry requirements. This programme presupposes a high level of proficiency in English since that is the language of instruction.
Remember to upload your Summary sheet (se more under Specific documents below).
Selection criteria
A major criterion in the admission process is the applicant's estimated ability to complete the programme successfully. The applicants are ranked based on their previous academic merits (grades for courses and the quality of their BA thesis or equivalent academic papers), their statement of purpose, and their proficiency in English. Admissions interviews may also be used to rank the applicants.
Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens
Citizens of countries outside:
- The European Union (EU)
- The European Economic Area (EEA) and
- Switzerland
are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.
Tuition fees, payments and exemptions
Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 270,000
First payment: SEK 67,500
Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.
No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland
There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.
Lund University Global Scholarship Programme
The Lund University Global Scholarship programme is a merit-based and selective scholarship targeted at top academic students from countries outside the EU/EEA.
Lund University Global Scholarship
African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship
Within the framework of the Lund University Global Scholarship programme, the University also offers the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) Scholarship targeted at top academic students from selected African research universities.
Swedish Institute Scholarship: Global professionals
The Swedish Institute offers scholarships to international students from certain countries who are applying for select Master's programmes in Sweden.
Scholarship information on the Swedish Institute website
Country-specific scholarships and funding options
Lund University has agreements with scholarship organisations and funding bodies in different countries, which may allow applicants to apply for funding or scholarships in their home countries for their studies at Lund University. Most agreements are intended for Master’s applicants, although certain opportunities may also be available to Bachelor’s students.
External scholarships
In addition to scholarships offered by Lund University or through its partner agreements, there are external opportunities. On the page below, you’ll find examples of organisations that may provide financial support for international students from specific countries.