University of Malta

What you'll study

The programme offers a mix of core and optional modules that cover contemporary areas of linguistics alongside applied language study. Core topics typically include research methods in linguistics, phonetics and phonology, morphology and syntax, and sociolinguistics. Optional modules allow specialisation in areas such as corpus linguistics, discourse analysis, psycholinguistics, bilingualism and language contact, translation studies, and Maltese language structure and history.

Teaching combines seminars, practical lab sessions (for example in experimental phonetics or corpus tools), and supervised independent research. The degree culminates in a substantial dissertation or research project, where students design and carry out an original study under faculty supervision. Assessment is by a combination of coursework, practical assignments, examinations and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

• A good undergraduate degree (honours or equivalent) in linguistics, language studies, psychology, computer science with a language component, or a related humanities/social science discipline.
• Applicants with degrees in other disciplines but demonstrable relevant experience (for example in translation, language teaching, or language technologies) may be considered.
• Proficiency in English is required; competence in Maltese is advantageous for some modules and research topics but not always mandatory. Evidence of language competence may be requested from international applicants.
• Applicants are usually expected to submit transcripts and a personal statement outlining relevant background and research interests; shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview or asked to provide a brief research proposal.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers in a range of public- and private-sector roles that draw on analytical and communicative skills developed by the programme. Typical paths include further academic research (PhD), teaching and curriculum development, language planning and policy, translation and interpretation, editorial and publishing work, and roles in language technology and corpus development. Employers include educational institutions, government language and cultural agencies, NGOs, media organisations, localization and software firms, and research institutes.

Why study at University of Malta

• The University of Malta offers a bilingual research environment where Maltese and English are both central to teaching and scholarship, providing unique opportunities for study of language contact and bilingualism.
• The Department responsible for the programme has active research groups and links with local language agencies, giving students access to specialised corpora, archives and applied projects.
• Small-group teaching and close supervision support independent research and professional development, while interdisciplinary collaboration is encouraged across departments such as Education, Psychology and Computer Science.
• Students benefit from the University's central location and connections with public bodies and industry on the island, facilitating internships, fieldwork and employment opportunities in language-related fields.