Computational Linguistics

Entry requirements

We would accept applicants with an Upper Second-Class Bachelor’s or equivalent degree in either a humanities or a science subject.

Degree results below the upper second class would be considered where there are indications of academic strength.

Although we don't require prior study of linguistics or computer science, whilst evaluating applications, we do look for evidence of the following:

• Strong numeracy skills and basic knowledge of programming
• An aptitude for computational thinking
• An interest in and capability for working in interdisciplinary contexts

A high level of competence in written and spoken English is also required.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Have you ever wondered how personal assistants like Siri and Alexa work, or how humans interact with chatbots and apps using natural language? Are you interested in how language is structured, what its social functions are, or how to build formal models of it? If so, then this programme is for you.

Why study MA in Computational Linguistics

• Our interdisciplinary programme will enable you to acquire the theoretical understanding and practical skills you’ll need to succeed in the academic and professional fields of natural language processing and computational linguistics.
• The programme is based on an inter-departmental collaboration between the Department of Computing and the linguistics team at the Department of English and Creative Writing, giving you a chance to explore the fascinating relationship between language and technology.
• You’ll have access to modules that explore the core areas of language structure and meaning, the relationship between language, society and culture, linguistic analyses of text and speech, Natural Language Processing, core programming skills, Corpus Linguistics, as well as a further range of option modules available at the two Departments.
• You’ll gain a solid understanding of how language technologies can be applied to diverse language processing tasks and will be able to steer your studies towards your primary interests and professional ambitions.
• This program focuses on the intersection of linguistics and computation and is suitable for students coming from either of these disciplines or from related disciplines with strong interests in this domain, with good numeracy skills.

Ethical and social perspectives

Throughout the programme, we encourage you to develop an understanding of the ethical and social dimensions of computational linguistics and its applications. Our graduates will be challenged to confront the many ethical issues in artificial intelligence and computational linguistics. In the modern era of data availability, it is vital that all participants involved in the acquisition and analysis of language data are aware of potential biases and the impact of their actions on privacy, anonymity, and personal security.

Information for international students

We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from around the world.

If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 6.5 with a 6.5 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study.

Fees and funding

To find out more about your fees, please check our postgraduate fees guidance or contact the Fees Office, who can also advise you about how to pay your fees.

Additional costs

In addition to your tuition fees, you'll be responsible for any additional costs associated with your course, such as buying stationery and paying for photocopying. You can find out more about what you need to budget for on our study costs page.

There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. This can include things like paying for field trips or specialist materials for your assignments. Please check the programme specification for more information.

Funding opportunities

Find out more about postgraduate fees and explore funding opportunities. If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.