MA in Linguistics

Our program aims to equip students with a strong foundation in core areas of linguistic analysis and to train students to think critically about a broad range of issues in language use, development, variation, and change. Faculty interests include Indigenous languages of North America, language development, phonology, semantics, syntax, and typology. Students are trained in theoretical and descriptive linguistics and have opportunities to engage in independent research and fieldwork. 

The Linguistics Program at the University of Montana awards a Master of Arts degree with thesis and comprehensive exam options. The small size of the Program allows for a great deal of individualized attention. Our graduates have been admitted to prestigious Ph.D. programs and have also gone on to teaching and other careers.

WRGP Approved Program

The UM Linguistics Program is part of the Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) of the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). This Program permits legal residents of member states* to pay reduced, out-of-state tuition upon being admitted. (See Student Tuition and Fees for more information.) If you are eligible and interested in completing the admission process as a WRGP student, you are responsible for providing proof of residency in one of the participating WICHE states. Please contact the Linguistics Program Director for additional guidelines on submitting the proper documentation. Once tuition rates are set, they are non-reversible. Note that a maximum of four students per application cycle may receive this benefit. 

*Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawai'i, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming.

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