Want to know more about the Best Schools For Linguistics In the US and make an informed decision? Here is a good place to start.
Linguistics is the scientific study of language, including its structure, meaning, and use. It is a rapidly growing field with many exciting opportunities. A degree in linguistics can lead to a career in language teaching, speech therapy, language technology, or research.
In this post, we will take a closer look at some of the best schools in the US for studying linguistics. We’ve based our article on factors such as reputation, faculty, research opportunities, and career outcomes.
Whether you’re a high school student considering your college options, or a working professional looking to return to school, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
So, let’s dive in and explore the top 25 schools for linguistics in the United States.
Please note that schools are selected based on our criteria (at the end of the article), ranked by the latest acceptance rate.
Table of Contents
#25. University of South Carolina
- Acceptance rate: 61.6%
- Average entry score: 1150-1360 SAT or 26-31 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $30,409-$51,649
- Average earning potential for graduates: $30,100 (College Simply)
This public university is located in Columbia, South Carolina. The University of South Carolina offers a variety of degrees and programs to help students prepare for careers in Linguistics.
Faculty members at the University of South Carolina are dedicated to providing students with a high-quality education. The University of South Carolina offers both a BA and MA in Linguistics.
Their undergraduate program includes courses, such as Introduction to Linguistic Theory, Phonetics, Syntax and Semantics. Students can also choose from a variety of electives available in the department. But the graduate program at USC offers more advanced courses than its undergraduate counterpart.
You can also earn your Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) certification at the graduate level.
#24. Brandeis University
- Acceptance rate: 39.1%
- Average entry score: 1370-1530 SAT or 31-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 10:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $76,195
- Average earning potential for graduates: $43,816 (College Factual)
Located in Waltham, Massachusetts, Brandeis University is a private research university that offers a wide range of degrees in arts.
The linguistics program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the field of language, including its different aspects and how they relate to one another. This coursework focuses on the structure of human languages and how language works on both a cognitive and an empirical level.
Students study how humans perceive and comprehend language as well as how linguists study language. They also gain an understanding of how language changes, how it is used socially, and the role it plays in human culture.
#23. University of Florida
- Acceptance rate: 30.1%
- Average entry score: 1300-1470 SAT or 29-33 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $21,430-$43,708
- Average earning potential for graduates: $23,600 (College Simply)
The University of Florida is a public research university located in Gainesville, Florida. UF is the best university in Florida, according to U.S. News & World Report.
This institution offers a variety of programs for students interested in linguistics. At UF, you can earn a bachelor’s degree in Anthropology with a Linguistics minor, or an MA in Linguistics.
Overall, UF is one of the top schools for linguistics in the U.S. for its programs and faculty members.
#22. University of California, Irvine
- Acceptance rate: 28.8%
- Average entry score: 1230-1430 SAT or 26-33 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $34,161-$63,915
- Average earning potential for graduates: $61,800 after 10 years (College Simply)
The Department of Linguistics at the University of California, Irvine, offers a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics. This program is for those who are interested in becoming linguists or working with languages as a career.
Their curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from phonetics and morphology to syntax and semantics. Students also learn about language acquisition, neurolinguistics, psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics, and linguistic theory.
Students also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of clubs and activities. The department offers a Linguistics Club, which hosts events, such as movie nights and discussions about topics related to linguistics. There is also an annual conference for undergraduate students interested in linguistics.
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#21. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- Acceptance rate: 20.4%
- Average entry score: 1310-1500 SAT or 29-33 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 13:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $24,546-$51,725
- Average earning potential for graduates: $19,800 (College Simply)
You can earn a bachelor’s degree in linguistics at the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. Their program offers an interdisciplinary approach that blends linguistics with psychology and computer science to help students develop an understanding of language from multiple perspectives.
This multidisciplinary approach allows students to gain a better understanding of how humans use language and why it is important to learn about it.
The program is well-respected, and graduates have gone on to be successful in their careers. This institution is also known for its large research facilities and state-of-the-art technology.
#20. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Acceptance rate: 20.2%
- Average entry score: 1360-1530 SAT or 31-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 15:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $32,272-$69,326
- Average earning potential for graduates: $23,113 (Campus Reel)
Study linguistics at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and you’ll be able to choose from a variety of programs.
At the University of Michigan, you’ll study under some of the country’s best linguists. You’ll also enroll in an interdisciplinary program that allows you to earn a minor or joint degree with another field of study at the university.
Therefore, this program is a great option for students who want to study linguistics while also pursuing another area of interest. It will also prepare you for careers in education, research and business, as well as government agencies.
Note that students who earn a master’s degree in linguistics can pursue careers as professional translators, researchers or language teachers.
#19. Carnegie Mellon University
- Acceptance rate: 13.5%
- Average entry score: 1480-1560 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 6:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $77,474
- Average earning potential for graduates: $37,145 (Glassdoor)
This Pittsburgh-based university is a leader in the field of linguistics. Their Department of Linguistics offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in linguistics, including a bachelor of arts, a master of science, and a doctorate. The department also has several programs for non-majors.
Carnegie Mellon is also well-known for its research program on language processing. Researchers use brain imaging techniques to study how people understand and produce language. This department is located at the Dietrich College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
#18. Emory University
- Acceptance rate: 13.1%
- Average entry score: 1420-1540 SAT or 32-34 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $75,594
- Average earning potential for graduates: $32,500 (College Simply)
With more than 60 linguistics majors, Emory University offers one of the most comprehensive programs in the country. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the university is home to some of the world’s leading experts in language science.
The 18-core faculty includes linguists, psycholinguists and cognitive scientists who work on a range of topics. At Emory University, you’ll have access to cutting-edge equipment and research. Students can work with faculty members on original research projects or get involved in one of the many undergraduate research programs.
With a linguistics degree from Emory University, you can prepare for careers in education or law. You could also go on to graduate school and earn a doctorate in linguistics or another area of study.
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#17. New York University
- Acceptance rate: 13%
- Average entry score: 1450-1570 SAT or 32-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $80,878
- Average earning potential for graduates: $32,400 (College Simply)
New York University has a highly-ranked program in linguistics, carefully designed for students who want to apply their knowledge of language to other fields of study.
The Departement of Linguistics is home to many famous scholars and researchers. They expose students to a wide variety of areas within the field, including psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics and historical linguistics. Students also study phonetics and phonology—the science of how speech sounds are produced.
Other areas of study include cognitive linguistics, discourse analysis and sociolinguistics. Students can take classes in these subjects as well as general linguistics—how language works and is used within society. They may also have the opportunity to work with faculty members on research projects or internships.
#16. Washington University, St. Louis
- Acceptance rate: 13%
- Average entry score: 1490-1570 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $79,060
- Average earning potential for graduates: $35,302 (Glassdoor)
Washington University in St. Louis offers a strong Linguistics program with a variety of course offerings and research opportunities. The faculty members are well-respected in the field and have expertise in a range of linguistic subfields.
This university also has a diverse student body and is located in a vibrant city with many cultural and research resources. These factors provide a rich and stimulating environment for students pursuing a degree in Linguistics.
#15. Georgetown University
- Acceptance rate: 12%
- Average entry score: 1380-1550 SAT or 31-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 11:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,754
- Average earning potential for graduates: $39,870 (College Factual)
Georgetown University is a private research university located in Washington, D.C. The Department of Linguistics provides students with a strong foundation in the science of language. You’ll learn how to analyze and describe the structure of language.
Students also learn how to apply linguistic theory to practical problems. The department offers a number of classes in phonetics and phonology. You can also study language acquisition, sociolinguistics and computational linguistics.
This department has an extensive research program. You’ll be able to work with faculty members on projects that examine different areas in linguistics. Georgetown University is a great choice for students who want to learn about the science of language in an academic setting.
#14. Cornell University
- Acceptance rate: 11%
- Average entry score: 1450-1560 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 9:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,992
- Average earning potential for graduates: $25,190 (Grad Reports)
Cornell University offers an excellent program in linguistics, with a strong faculty, an interdisciplinary approach, hands-on research and internship opportunities, and a diverse location, making it an ideal choice for students interested in pursuing a degree in linguistics.
Cornell’s program is ranked as one of the best graduate programs in linguistics by U.S. News & World Report and Princeton Review.
Students benefit from the close proximity to other departments within Cornell University, including English, Psychology and Computer Science. This allows them to collaborate with faculty members and conduct research.
The program offers students a broad range of courses and opportunities to pursue their research interests.
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#13. University of California, Los Angeles
- Acceptance rate: 10.8%
- Average entry score: 1290-1520 SAT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 18:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $16,847-$31,949
- Average earning potential for graduates: $34,901 (College Factual)
There is no doubt that the Department of Linguistics at UCLA is one of the most respected linguistics departments in the United States. It is ranked as one of the top linguistics departments by US News and World Report.
World-class facilities, respected faculty members, and a dynamic student body make UCLA’s College of Letters and Science one of the best places to study linguistics. The department offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in linguistics.
The graduate program is particularly strong, with the department offering a variety of specialization tracks in phonology, syntax and semantics. The faculty members are some of the most prominent linguists in the country. Their research spans a wide range of topics, including language acquisition, child language development and bilingualism.
#12. Rice University
- Acceptance rate: 9.5%
- Average entry score: 1490-1570 SAT or 34-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 6:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $74,110
- Average earning potential for graduates: $33,009 (Glassdoor)
Rice University has a strong tradition of interdisciplinary research. Students in the Linguistics program may have opportunities to collaborate with scholars in other fields, such as Computer Science, Anthropology, and Psychology.
This university’s location in Houston, Texas offers a diverse and multicultural environment that provides students with a range of linguistic and cultural experiences.
Coupled with a strong academic program, these opportunities give students with a well-rounded education in Linguistics. The accessible and supportive faculty also help students adjust to university life and achieve their academic goals.
#11. Northwestern University
- Acceptance rate: 7%
- Average entry score: 1440-1550 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 6:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $62,391
- Average earning potential for graduates: $32,700 (College Simply)
Northwestern University’s Linguistics program offers a well-rounded education with a strong faculty, an interdisciplinary approach, research opportunities, strong connections to industry, and a wide range of course offerings.
Students in Northwestern’s linguistics program will take a variety of courses that range from introductory levels to more advanced topics.
As a student, you will also be able to choose from a variety of elective courses that allow them to explore your interests in a more specific way.
Students also take advantage of the many research opportunities available to students, such as working with faculty on their own projects or assisting other students with theirs.
#10. University of Chicago
- Acceptance rate: 6.5%
- Average entry score: 1510-1580 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 5:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $85,536
- Average earning potential for graduates: $32,775 (ZipRecruiter)
The University of Chicago offers a BA in Linguistics with a specialization in Language Acquisition and Neurolinguistics.
The program provides students with an understanding of the structure of language, how it changes over time and how we acquire it through learning processes. Students are introduced to research methods at the undergraduate level, giving them an advantage over other students entering graduate school.
Linguistics students are also encouraged to take advantage of the University of Chicago’s language laboratory and computer clusters. This allows them to conduct research in areas such as computational linguistics and psycholinguistics.
What’s it like to study linguistics at the University of Chicago?
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#9. Dartmouth College
- Acceptance rate: 6.2%
- Average entry score: 1440-1560 SAT or 32-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $81,662
- Average earning potential for graduates: $40,900 (College Simply)
Dartmouth is home to a number of resources and facilities that are useful for linguistics students, such as the Dartmouth Language Laboratory. It provides access to equipment and software for research and analysis.
This college has a strong alumni network which can be helpful for students to make connections and get help in finding jobs in their field of study. The faculty at Dartmouth are experts in the field of linguistics, and they are committed to student success.
The college offers a range of specialized courses that students can take advantage of to enhance their knowledge of this subject area.
#8. Duke University
- Acceptance rate: 5.9%
- Average entry score: 1480-1570 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 8:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $84,517
- Average earning potential for graduates: $40,000 (College Factual)
Duke is a highly-respected university with a strong reputation in the academic community. A degree from Duke is recognized as a mark of excellence and can open doors to many opportunities in the field of Linguistics.
Duke’s Department of Linguistics offers a BA in Linguistics and a graduate program leading to an MA or Ph.D. in Linguistics.
The department also has strong ties with other departments at Duke, such as Computer Science and Cognitive Science. This allows students to pursue interdisciplinary research interests.
Students are able to choose from many different courses that explore topics in theoretical linguistics or applied linguistics.
What’s it like to study at Duke University?
#7. University of Pennsylvania
- Acceptance rate: 5.9%
- Average entry score: 1460-1570 SAT and 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $65,790
- Average earning potential for graduates: $29,685 (College Reel)
The University of Pennsylvania offers a well-rounded and comprehensive education in Linguistics. With a strong emphasis on research and hands-on experience and a wide range of specializations to choose from, the linguistics program at UPenn has a lot to offer students.
The linguistics program at Penn provides students with the training and skills necessary to work in a variety of fields, including speech pathology, language acquisition, neurolinguistics and more.
The school also offers an MA in Linguistic Analysis for those who are interested in pursuing a career as a professional linguist or researcher.
What’s it like to study linguistics at the University of Pennsylvania?
#6. Brown University
- Acceptance rate: 5.5%
- Average entry score: 1460-1570 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 6:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $84,986
- Average earning potential for graduates: $15,850 (Grad Reports)
Brown offers a wide range of opportunities for students to engage in research, including independent study and thesis projects, as well as internships. Students in the Linguistics program can also take advantage of the university’s extensive research facilities.
This university also has a highly-respected faculty in the field of linguistics, with many renowned scholars and experts in various subfields. They provide students with a comprehensive education in the field.
The institution’s location in Providence, Rhode Island, provides students with easy access to a diverse and multicultural community. This is beneficial for language study and research.
In a nutshell, Brown University offers a unique program that is both rigorous and accessible. The university’s reputation for excellence in linguistics makes it a top choice for students who are interested in studying the field.
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#5. Yale University
- Acceptance rate: 5.3%
- Average entry score: 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 6:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $84,525
- Average earning potential for graduates: $78,000 (Yale)
Yale University offers an undergraduate program in Linguistics that provides students with a solid foundation in the field. Students study phonology, morphology, syntax and semantics and are encouraged to take courses outside their major to a broader perspective of linguistics as a discipline.
This institution boasts a strong faculty, including world-renowned linguists. The graduate program at this university is one of the best in the nation, with professors who are dedicated to providing students with a thorough understanding of how language works.
The program is designed to help students develop their ability to think critically and apply their knowledge of language in practical ways. The curriculum includes courses on experimental methods, psycholinguistics, language acquisition and sociolinguistics.
What’s it like to study linguistics at Yale University?
#4. Princeton University
- Acceptance rate: 4.4%
- Average entry score: 1570 SAT or 35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 5:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,490
- Average earning potential for graduates: $50,000 (Princeton Review)
The Department of Linguistics at Princeton University is one of the oldest programs in the country. It offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral programs to students interested in various aspects of linguistics.
Some programs are offered jointly with other departments, such as Philosophy, Psychology and Computer Science.
The interdisciplinary approach taken by Princeton’s Linguistics program allows students to gain a more holistic understanding of the field and how it relates to other disciplines. This prepares them for diverse career opportunities and research in the field.
The Linguistics program at Princeton boasts a variety of courses and seminars that cover the major subfields of linguistics. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in linguistic theory and skills needed for advanced study. It also gives students opportunities to explore various aspects of language through independent studies, internships and research projects.
What’s it to study Linguistics at Princeton University?
#3. Columbia University
- Acceptance rate: 4.1%
- Average entry score: 1440-1570 SAT or 34-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 6:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $85,000
- Average earning potential for graduates: $39,600 (College Simply)
Columbia University has a strong reputation for its linguistics program, which is consistently ranked among the top in the United States. This university is home to a variety of research centers and institutes that provide students with ample opportunities for research and collaboration.
The university’s location in New York City provides students with access to a diverse range of linguistic communities and resources. This school focuses on both theoretical and applied linguistics.
Also, the Linguistics Department at Columbia University is known for its strong interdisciplinary approach. This allows students to explore linguistics in the context of other disciplines, such as cognitive science, computer science, philosophy, and psychology.
#2. Harvard University
- Acceptance rate: 4%
- Average entry score: 1460-1580 SAT or 33-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 7:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,200
- Average earning potential for graduates: $60,494 (Glassdoor)
Harvard University is one of the most prestigious universities in the world, and its linguistics department is no exception. Having a degree from Harvard can open many doors for students in linguistics, both academically and professionally.
This institution offers students in linguistics an unparalleled combination of world-class faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, access to resources, an interdisciplinary approach, and a strong alumni network. These contribute to making it one of the best institutions for a degree in linguistics.
What’s it like to study linguistics at Harvard University?
#1. Stanford University
- Acceptance rate: 3.9%
- Average entry score: 1470-1570 SAT or 34-35 ACT
- Student-to-faculty ratio: 5:1
- Estimated cost of attendance (tuition and fees): $78,898
- Average earning potential for graduates: $93,000 (College Factual)
The department of linguistics at Stanford has been ranked as one of the top five in the country, according to the U.S. News and World Report. This department has a long history of providing students with a solid foundation in both theory and practice.
Students take advantage of the university’s state-of-the-art facilities, including one of the most extensive collections of endangered languages in the world. The faculty includes the top experts on language in the country, many of whom have been recognized for their work with prestigious awards.
The availability of financial support for students is another aspect that makes Stanford a great choice for those interested in linguistics. In addition to scholarships, the department offers generous fellowships to graduate students who are studying languages that are endangered or underrepresented at the university.
The faculty also provides funding for undergraduate research projects through various grants from foundations and other organizations.
What’s it like to study at Stanford University?
Conclusion
There are excellent schools for linguistics in the United States. Our list includes the best universities in the country that offer a linguistics degree program. These schools provide students with a top-notch education and prepare them for a wide range of careers.
Whether you’re interested in computational linguistics, sociolinguistics, or any other subfield, there’s a school on this list that will meet your needs. It’s worth noting that the ranking of the schools can vary depending on the source. So, it’s important to research and compare the different programs.
Also note that the best school for you will depend on your specific interests, career goals, and location preferences. In any case, a degree in linguistics from any of the schools on this list will open up many doors for you in the field.
Selection Criteria
Here is a list of the factors we considered when selecting the best schools for Linguistics:
Please note that the order in this list might vary by ranking criteria and sources.
- Reputation and ranking of the school: We looked for schools that have a strong reputation and high ranking in the field of Linguistics.
- Faculty expertise, qualifications, and specialization: We researched the faculty members and their areas of expertise, and qualifications to ensure that the school has professors with relevant expertise and specialization in the areas of Linguistics that are of interest.
- Curriculum and resources: We evaluated the curriculum to ensure it aligns with students’ interests and career goals and considered the quality of the school’s facilities and resources, such as labs, equipment, and libraries.
- Opportunities for hands-on learning and research: We looked for schools that provide opportunities for hands-on experience through internships, co-op programs, or fieldwork.
- Student support services and alumni network: We considered the availability of support services and the strength of the alumni network in providing mentorship, internships, and job opportunities after graduation.
- Extracurricular activities and diversity: We evaluated the availability of extracurricular activities and clubs that align with students’ interests and considered the school’s diversity and inclusivity.
- Networking and post-graduation support: We researched the school’s network of alumni and their post-graduation support for Linguistics students, and also considered if the schools have a strong network of industry professionals and researchers in the field of Linguistics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the top-ranked schools for linguistics in the United States?
According to U.S. News & World Report, the top-ranked schools for linguistics in the United States are:
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- University of California–Berkeley
- University of Chicago
- Harvard University
Q2. Are there any schools that specialize in a specific subfield of linguistics?
Yes, many schools have a specific focus or specialization within the field of linguistics. For example, Brandeis University is known for its strength in computational linguistics, while UC Berkeley has a strong emphasis on linguistic anthropology.
Some schools may also offer specialized degrees in areas such as phonology, syntax, or sociolinguistics. It’s always a good idea to check out the faculty and research interests of the department to see if the school specializes in a specific subfield.
Q3. What kind of resources and facilities do the top linguistics programs offer?
Top linguistics programs typically offer students access to a variety of resources and facilities, such as language labs, computer programs, and specialized libraries. Other schools may have research centers or institutes dedicated to specific areas of linguistic study.
Some programs also have a variety of technology resources, such as databases and software, that are useful in the field of linguistics.
Q4. How do I know if a school’s linguistics program is reputable?
One way to determine if a school’s linguistics program is reputable is to look at the rankings of the program. Rankings from reputable sources, such as U.S. News & World Report, can provide a good starting point.
You can also check the credentials of the faculty, such as their education, publications and research interests. Check the graduate placement of the program. This indicates the success of the program in placing students in employment or graduate school.
Q5. Are there any schools that offer combined programs in linguistics and another field?
Yes, some schools offer combined or interdisciplinary programs that combine linguistics with other fields, such as computer science, psychology, or anthropology. These programs can provide students with a unique perspective and skill set that can be beneficial in certain career paths.
Q6. Are there any online or distance learning options for linguistics programs in the United States?
Yes, some universities in the United States offer online or distance learning options for linguistics programs. However, it’s important to note that these programs may not have the same level of resources and support as on-campus programs.
Also, some online programs may have more limited course options than on-campus programs.
