Program details
The Department of Linguistics offers programs of study leading to a PhD in Linguistics.
Expected duration: 4 years
The PhD program consists of a combination of coursework and a thesis component. Find sample theses and explore areas of specialization within the Linguistics Department's graduate student resources section.
Tuition and fees: Tuition fees are charged for terms one and two and terms four and five. A continuing fee is paid for term three, term six and each subsequent term. (Refer to Graduate tuition and fees.)
In addition to the minimum course requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies, found in the Graduate Studies Regulations Section, students must:
- Complete 18 credit hours of coursework at the graduate level
- Complete candidacy exams consisting of two original research papers of publishable quality in distinct areas of linguistics
- Demonstrate proficiency in a second language
- Complete and successfully defend a thesis
Courses are to be chosen in consultation with the advisor and students are encouraged to complete them by the end of the first year of the program.
Graduate advisors
Visit our graduate student resources section for more information on finding a graduate advisor and the diversity of our research interests.
Sample course offerings
- LING 7510: Linguistic Typology (3 credit hours)
- LING 7550: Phonology (3 credit hours)
- LING 7570: Semantic Theory (3 credit hours)
- LING 7630: Syntax (3 credit hours)
- LING 7650: Field Methods (3 credit hours)
- LING 7680: Sociolinguistics (3 credit hours)
- LING 7920: Special Problems in Linguistic Research (3 credit hours)
- LING 7940: Graduate Reading and Research 1 (3 credit hours)
For full course descriptions, please visit the Academic Calendar.
Admission requirements
The following are minimum requirements to be considered for entry into the program. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee acceptance into the program.
Admission decisions are based on the qualifications of the applicant as well as the ability of the Department of Linguistics and the University of Manitoba to serve the applicant’s intended program of study and area of specialization.
In addition to the admission requirements described here, all applicants must meet the minimum admission and English language proficiency requirements of the Faculty of Graduate Studies.
To be considered for admission to the PhD in Linguistics program, you must have a minimum of a master’s degree in linguistics or equivalent.
This program is strongly research-oriented; admission decisions are, therefore, based only in part on the applicant’s academic record; the department’s resources and interests also play an important role.
How to apply
The PhD in Linguistics program accepts applications for Fall entry only. Applications must be completed online and include several parts:
- Application fee (non-refundable)
- Unofficial copies of transcripts and degree certificates
- CV/resume
- Statement of intent
- Publication/writing sample
- Two letters of recommendation (must be requested from within the application)
- Proof of English language proficiency, if required
Please read the Faculty of Graduate Studies online application instructions before beginning your application.
Application deadlines
Applications open up to 18 months prior to start term.
| Term | Annual application deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall (September) | January 15 |
Applicants must submit their online application with supporting documentation and application fee by the deadline date indicated.
Learn more
Contact us
Admission and application inquiries
Faculty of Graduate Studies
Room 500 UMSU University Centre
65 Chancellors Circle
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, MB R3T 2N2 Canada
graduate.admissions@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-474-9377
Monday to Friday
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Program inquiries
Department of Linguistics, Faculty of Arts
534 Fletcher Argue
15 Chancellor's Circle
University of Manitoba (Fort Garry campus)
Winnipeg, Manitoba R3T 5V5
linguistics@umanitoba.ca
Phone: 204-474-9596
Fax: 204-474-7671