Linguistics: General Linguistics

In the Master's in General Linguistics, you will first come to understand how human language works by comparing as many language systems as possible, including spoken languages from all continents, sign languages, child language, and language as used by people with a developmental or acquired disorder. You will then have the opportunity to specialise in one of four linguistic sub-areas: phonetics & phonology, syntax & semantics, language acquisition & disorders, or sign linguistics.
The Linguistics programme at the University of Amsterdam ranks among the leading institutions in the world. The programme is ranked highest in continental Europe and 17th in the world in the QS World University Rankings by Subject. It offers you the freedom to specialise in your area of interest. If you take as many courses as possible in your sub-area of interest and also write your term paper and thesis in that area, you will be able to spend approximately two-thirds of your time on your area of specialisation. You can also opt for a broader programme by writing your term paper in a different area than your specialisation and writing your thesis on a subject that crosses the boundaries of the four linguistic sub-areas.