The Master of Arts (M.A.) in Linguistics at UC Santa Cruz is a two-year program designed for in-depth study of the field. While the typical completion time is two years, students who have completed a B.A. in Linguistics at UC Santa Cruz and taken relevant graduate courses during their undergraduate studies may be able to finish the M.A. in one year. A dedicated contiguous Bachelor's/Master's pathway is also available for current UC Santa Cruz undergraduates. The program focuses on theoretical linguistics and offers a rigorous curriculum covering core areas of the discipline. Students will engage in advanced coursework and research under the guidance of faculty members. The department is committed to fostering a strong academic community and providing students with the necessary tools for advanced study and research in linguistics.
The M.A. program requires a minimum of 45 credits of graduate-level work. All students must complete specific core courses and electives that form a coherent plan of study.
Current UC Santa Cruz undergraduates in their final year of their linguistics or language studies major can apply for admission to the graduate program during the fall quarter of their senior year. It is recommended that interested students discuss their plans with faculty members prior to applying.
Residency for tuition purposes is determined by the University of California based on a student's legal ties to California. Admitted students must complete a Statement of Legal Residence (SLR) to determine their fee status. Deadlines for SLR submission are in place to ensure timely fee assessment. International students are automatically considered non-residents unless they qualify for specific exemptions.
UC Santa Cruz is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
The Linguistics M.A. is typically a two-year program. However, current UC Santa Cruz undergraduates with a B.A. in Linguistics may be able to finish in one year.
A bachelor's degree is required for admission. While a specific major is not mandated, a strong undergraduate preparation in linguistics or related fields is recommended.
International students are assessed non-resident tuition and fees. For the most current fee information, please refer to the UC Santa Cruz Registrar's website.
The general application deadline for graduate programs, including the Linguistics M.A., is typically around July 1 for Fall admission. International applicants should verify the exact deadline on the Linguistics Department's graduate admissions page.
Graduates often pursue further doctoral studies or enter careers that value strong analytical and communication skills, such as research, academia, or other professional fields.
Yes, international applicants typically need to submit official English language proficiency test scores, such as TOEFL or IELTS, as part of their application materials.