PhD Program
Our PhD program allows students to specialize in a variety of areas of linguistics, including sociophonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, language acquisition, psycholinguistics, communication differences and disabilities, sociolinguistics, language documentation and revitalization, and more. This four-year program will train PhD researchers in their chosen specialty and provide students with ample opportunity to expand their linguistic knowledge and to advance both theoretical and applied linguistic research.
Admission Requirements
An MA degree in Linguistics with a minimum GPA of A-.
Program Requirements
Students will establish their programs in consultation with the School’s supervisor of graduate studies.
Funding
The possibilities for financial aid and assistance vary depending on whether you are a new student or a continuing student.
Future Opportunities | What Can I Do With a Graduate Degree in Linguistics?
Applying to the PhD in Linguistics
The application deadline is January 20, and early applications are encouraged. Apply early to receive early consideration for admission and funding. We will send out admission offers on a rolling basis until the program is filled.
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- Transcript(s) and CV
- Letters of Reference: (3 required) written by former professors who are
familiar with your academic potential and achievements. - Statement of Intent: to include:
- research plan, including specific ideas for research projects you would undertake for your PhD, and general description of research interests in linguistics;
- in particular, a description of your interest in language documentation and revitalization, including specific languages, communities, and/or areas you plan to work with;
- names of one or two SLaLS faculty members who could serve as supervisors, and an explanation of how your research interests fit with theirs;
- description of relevant background and experience that demonstrates your potential to succeed in graduate school.
- Writing Sample: a piece of academic writing in linguistics or related field, written in English or French.
- Language Proficiency (ESL Test Scores): if required
Milestones for the PhD in Linguistics
Activity | Date |
---|---|
Initial meeting with supervisor(s) | Year 1 (Fall) |
Coursework LING 6001 Language Documentation ALDS 6407 Revitalization Policy 1.5 credit in program electives | Year 1 (Fall & Winter) |
QP Committee formed | |
QP defended Comp Exam Committee formed Thesis Committee formed | Year 2 (Fall) |
Comp Exam completed Prospectus defended | Year 2 (Winter) |
Thesis defended | Year 4 (Summer) |
Final thesis submitted | Year 4 (Summer) |
Linguistics (LING) Courses in the Graduate Calendar
Not all courses listed in the undergraduate calendar are offered in a given academic term.
Public Schedule: Current Course Offerings
The public schedule displays current course offerings.
Tuition Fees
Visit the Student Accounts Receivable website for more information about tuition fees.
LING Faculty Members
Meet our LING faculty members and learn more about their research interests.
Learn More About Student Life in SLaLS
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Contact the Graduate Team

Tamara Sorenson Duncan
- Associate Professor and Graduate Supervisor (Linguistics)
- tamara.sorensonduncan@carleton.ca