University of Amsterdam

Overview

The PhD in Language and Communication at the University of Amsterdam offers a unique opportunity to delve into the complexities of language as it functions in the mind, in interactions, and within diverse real-world contexts. This doctoral research programme is hosted by the Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication, providing a rich environment for academic inquiry and exploration.

What you'll study

This research-led programme is structured around your individual project, guided by a UvA supervisor. You will engage in original research culminating in a doctoral dissertation while participating in academic training and integrating into the research community at the Amsterdam Center for Language and Communication.

Research groups (examples of areas you may work in):

• Comparative (Slavic) Verbal Aspect
• Corpus-based and/or Computational Approaches to Language and Literature (CCAL)
• Deliberate Linguistic Innovation
• Historical Sociolinguistics
• Language Learning, Literacy, and Multilingualism
• Language and Cognition in Argumentation
• Language in Autism
• Oncology-related Communication Disorders
• Persuasive Discourse Across Domains
• Relevance & Multimodal Communication

Typical components of a PhD trajectory include:

• Supervised research: Conducting original research leading to your doctoral dissertation.
• Academic training: Receiving methods training and skills development tailored to your topic.
• Progress milestones: Participating in regular supervision meetings and formal assessments of your progress.
• Dissemination: Presenting your findings at conferences and publishing your research results.

Note: The specific course components and training mix will depend on your supervisor, research topic, and the requirements of your doctoral path.

Entry requirements

To embark on doctoral research, candidates must secure the supervision of a professor affiliated with the University of Amsterdam (UvA) prior to making an application. For admission, candidates should possess a Dutch Master’s degree or an equivalent initial university degree. Those with different Dutch qualifications or international degrees may need to apply for an exemption or undergo an assessment of their educational background before gaining admission.

Career prospects