Phonetics: Level 3 - B. A. Course
Start
Autumn 2026
Level
Bachelor's
Language
English
Place of study
Lund
Course code
LINK23
This course provides in-depth knowledge of phonetics – the study of speech sounds. You’ll learn how speech is produced and perceived, and how to investigate this scientifically. The focus is on both theory and method, giving you a solid foundation to conduct your own research in the field.
You’ll work with questions such as:
• How are sounds formed in the vocal tract?
• How do we perceive speech?
• How can we measure and analyse speech scientifically?
The course concludes with an independent thesis project where you delve into a topic of your choice – contributing new knowledge in phonetics.
Course literature
The course literature listed may be updated up to eight weeks before the course begins.
Course literature LINK23 (PDF, New tab)You’ll learn in a variety of ways – both together with others and on your own. The course includes lectures that introduce key topics, as well as seminars where you’ll discuss and deepen your understanding in a group. There are usually 10 to 15 mandatory seminars throughout the course.
You’ll also take part in practical exercises, lab work, and group projects. Some tasks are done individually, and you’ll receive personal guidance along the way. If you miss a mandatory seminar, you’ll need to complete a written assignment to make up for it.
The course consists of three parts:
- Introduction to Linguistic Research Methods (7.5 credits) – Practice scientific methodology through seminars, presentations, and a written assignment.
- Theory of Production and Perception (7.5 credits) – Learn how speech is produced and perceived. Ends with a written exam.
- Thesis in Phonetics (15 credits) – Write, present, and defend your own project, and review another student’s thesis.
After the course, you’ll not only have advanced knowledge in phonetics – you’ll also be trained in scientific thinking, critical analysis, and academic writing. This provides a strong foundation for further studies in linguistics, speech-language pathology, or other humanities and social sciences.
You’ll also be well-prepared for careers where language, communication, and analysis are key – such as in education, language technology, voice technology, media production, or research.
Prerequisites
General eligibility and knowledge corresponding to LINA15 Linguistics: Level 1, 30 ECTS, and LINA24 Linguistics: Level 2, 30 ECTS.
Selection criteria
Seats are allocated according to: The general average (GPA) of your higher secondary school leaving certificate: 20 %, The Swedish national university aptitude test: 10 %, number of previous ECTS at application deadline (up to 165): 70 %.
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 62,500
First payment: SEK 62,500
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.