Linguistics, PhD

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The degree programs in linguistics combine a solid foundation in the core areas of linguistic theory (phonetics, phonology, syntax) with courses in specialized fields of applied linguistics, Hispanic linguistics and sociolinguistics/sociology of language. Within applied linguistics, students may choose from topics such as second language acquisition, language teaching methodology, and the development of teaching materials/tests. The department also offers a certificate in teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL). In sociolinguistics, students may focus on discourse analysis, variation and change, and socio-phonetics. In Hispanic linguistics, students may focus on phonetics, sociolinguistics, and second language acquisition.

Required Core Courses for the MA/PhD

The following courses are required of all students in the MA/PhD program. Students entering with an MA degree from another institution may petition to have coursework taken for that MA degree apply to the PhD degree at Pitt. See also the Preliminary exam requirement.

Courses required to be taken in the first year

LING 2578 - PHONETICS AND PHONEMICS (Fall)
LING 2579 - PHONOLOGY (Spring)
LING 2773 - MORPHOLOGY (Fall)
LING 2777 - SYNTACTIC THEORY (Spring)
LING 2144 - RES METHODS IN APPLIED LING (Fall)

Required courses that can be taken any time

Choose one advanced level core course approved by the student’s advisor.

Some example courses fulfilling this requirement::

LING 2580 - TOPICS IN PHONOLOGICAL THEORY
277X Advanced Morphology
277X Advanced Syntax

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