Graduate Program
The PhD program in linguistics is designed to be completed in six years within the University of Chicago’s quarter system, combining intensive coursework, independent research, language study, professional development, and teaching experience. Students typically take three courses per quarter over three quarters each year, with most coursework completed in the first three to four years. During this time, they fulfill foundational and advanced course requirements, complete a methods course, and take the Research Seminar while developing two qualifying papers under faculty supervision. They must also satisfy language requirements, including competency in a non-Indo-European language and a reading examination in another language besides English. By the end of the fourth year, students who have completed their coursework, qualifying papers, language requirements, and dissertation proposal defense are admitted to PhD candidacy, after which they focus primarily on the dissertation. The program also includes professionalization seminars and required teaching experience, along with pedagogical training, to prepare students for academic presentation, instruction, and the job market.
Got Questions?
- Check out the Frequently Asked Questions
- Register for an information session or appointment with an admissions representative
- Students do not need to contact faculty before applying
- Questions about the application process may be directed to ahd-admissions@uchicago.edu or (773) 702-5809.
- Contact Student Affairs Administrator Alison Balaskovits for department-specific questions.
Our application is now entirely online, and all materials should be submitted through the online application.
Find key deadlines, required materials, and department-specific details to help plan your application.
All admitted PhD students are guaranteed to have full funding support from the University and external sources, or a combination of the two for the duration of their program.
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