phd linguistics australia

• Faculty of Arts

School of Languages and Linguistics

#1 for Modern Languages and #1 for Linguistics in Australia (QS World University Rankings 2022)

Our School is an internationally recognised hub for teaching and research in modern European languages and cultures, and in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, English as a Second Language and Language Testing.

Discipline areas

Our Language programs combine best practice in learning languages at all levels with leading research in key areas for deeper cultural understanding and communication. We work closely with other programs in the Faculty of Arts and the rest of the University to connect languages into all degrees via breadth or the Diploma of Languages.

European Studies

French studies, german studies, gender studies, italian studies, russian studies, spanish and latin american studies, linguistics and applied linguistics.

Our linguistics focus promotes working together in language teaching, learning and assessment strategies, drawing on the expertise of our Linguistics and Applied Linguistics discipline area and our research centres and units. We also provide a focal point for reflection and research in all areas of linguistics, and in the interface between language and culture. Our discipline areas are:

• English as a Second Language

Explore our stories, news and events

Learn about our research centres, hubs and units.

• Language Testing Research Centre (LTRC) The LTRC at the University of Melbourne has become an international leader in research and development in language assessment and language program evaluation.
• Research Hub for Language in Forensic Evidence We serve as a national hub coordinating research involving linguistics, law, and law enforcement.
• Research Unit for Indigenous Language (RUIL) RUIL works with Indigenous communities across Australia and the region to expand and strengthen Indigenous language research.
• Research Unit for Multilingualism and Cross-Cultural Communication (RUMACCC) RUMACCC conducts research in Australian and international contexts into all aspects of the maintenance and development of bi- and multilingualism.

Horwood Recording Studio

Need to record interviews or voiceover work? Find out more about hiring our studio. The aim of the Horwood recording studio is to make sure that you can record in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. No matter what your idea, please contact us to see how we can assist you.

Language Placement Testing

Enrolling in a language subject for the first time? Take our online test first to help determine which level is suitable for you.

The Secret Life of Language

The Secret Life of Language is a podcast series from the studios of the School of Languages and Linguistics. In the podcasts we dive into the cultures, arts and histories that underpin and inform the world's diverse languages.

Studying or teaching VCE German or Italian? Purchase our kits to help prepare for VCE exams.

For all general student enquiries, enrolment and administration, please contact Stop 1

School of Languages and Linguistics, Babel (Building 139) The University of Melbourne, VIC 3010

Email: [email protected]

English as a Second Language (ESL)

Established in 1992, our program was one of the first in Australia to offer a range of credit-bearing ESL subjects.

European Studies is an interdisciplinary program exploring the cultures, societies and languages of Europe.

One of the first subjects taught at the University of Melbourne, our French program offers world-class research and teaching in French language and literature studies.

German Studies has a strong reputation in both teaching and research, and an impressive publishing record over a broad range of topics.

Our program explores the significance of gender and sexuality on a range of discourses embedded within culture, identity and global history.

Among the leading programs of its kind in Australia, Italian Studies at the University of Melbourne is also one of the longest running.

Our Linguistics and Applied Linguistics program is #1 in Australia and #26 in the world (QS rankings 2023).

Part of Australia’s #1 University for Modern Languages (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021), we offer a full graduate (Masters and PhD) and undergraduate (Major) program in Russian Studies

Our program offers opportunities to study and undertake independent research projects with innovative scholars working in areas such as Spanish and Latin American cinema, Latin American popular culture studies, Latin American popular music, and research with Indigenous and Afro-Latin communities.

Faculty of Arts Scholarships

Head of school.

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Welcome from the head of school

French Studies honorary staff

Gender studies affiliated staff, german studies honorary staff, italian studies honorary staff, linguistics and applied linguistics honorary staff, russian studies honorary staff, spanish and latin american studies honorary staff, professional staff.

The School of Languages and Linguistics is an internationally recognised hub for research in modern European languages and cultures, and in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, English as a Second Language and Language Testing.

Research projects

Explore a selection of Australian Research Council-funded and other research projects undertaken by academics at the School of Languages and Linguistics.

Who is Nature?

Professor Adrian Hearn and Dr Steve Kelly have created a 360-degree interactive film invites you on a journey to five Latin American and Australian sites of ceremonial exchange with nature.

Visual evidence: transforming modern sex research (1880s-1930s)

This project explores how visual evidence became a central means of communicating scientific and medical knowledge about human sexuality in an era of rapid technological change in the German-speaking world.

French Wine Culture

Analysing wine as a product of regional, national and international geopolitics, Associate Professor Jacqueline Dutton shows that wine is so much more than fermented grape juice, especially for the French.

Trust and Cultural Exchange

The Trust and Cultural Exchange project brings together 15 academics from a variety of Schools and Faculties to explore theory and practices of trust across history and cultures.

Aboriginal language use in Darwin

Dr John Mansfield investigates how highly complex Aboriginal languages, traditionally spoken by small semi-nomadic clan groups, are used in an urban context.

Language placement test review

The study focuses on the multi-method evaluation of a suite of language placement tests for seven languages embedded in an institutional policy.

50 words project

This project aims to provide fifty words in every Indigenous language of Australia. We hope this will be a useful resource for schools and educational organisations, and for the general public to discover the diversity of languages around Australia.

Getting in Touch: Bird app development

The Getting in Touch bird apps enable people to listen to recordings of language names for birds alongside photographs of birds and the sounds of their calls.

Explore more projects

Research centres, hubs and units

The School of Languages and Linguistics hosts the Melbourne node of the Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for the Dynamics of Language, the Language Testing Research Centre, two research units: the Research Unit for Indigenous Language and the Research Unit for Multilingualism and Cross-Cultural Communication, and the Research Hub for Language in Forensic Evidence .

ARC Centre of Excellence for the Dynamics of Language

We investigate how languages vary and evolve, and how we learn and process them. By understanding why the world's languages are designed so differently, we hope to generate scientific insights and exciting new technologies.

Language Testing Research Centre

We're international leaders in the research and development of language assessment and language program evaluation. Established in 1990, we've worked on many major projects for institutions and government agencies throughout the world.

Research Unit for Indigenous Language

We work with Indigenous communities across Australia and the region to expand and strengthen Indigenous Language research, and to support efforts by communities to maintain their linguistic and cultural heritage.

Research Hub for Language in Forensic Evidence

We serve as a national hub coordinating research involving linguistics, law, and law enforcement. Our aim is to assist the courts in ensuring that language & speech in forensic evidence is used in the interests of justice and fairness.

Research Unit for Multilingualism and Cross-Cultural Communications

We research bilingualism and multilingualism, and share our findings with the community via regular free workshops for parents, teachers and others interested in bilingual education.

More information

Explore more

Research publications.

This section contains a selective list of recent major publications (books and book chapters) in all our programs within The School of Languages and Linguistics.

Discussion groups

Learn about our discussion groups on Conversation Analysis and Phonetics and Phonology.

Research strengths

We conducts research into a wide range of language practices, covering through its subjects a diversity of times, places and themes which reflect the latest developments in language and linguistic practice.

Partner with us

The School welcomes research collaboration. Contact us to learn more about partnering with the School of Languages and Linguistics.

Undergraduate

Information for current undergraduate students including policies, assessment and contact information.

Honours provides scope to refine your analytical skills and research techniques while significantly enhancing your range of options after graduation.

Graduate studies

Information for current graduate coursework students.

Graduate research

Information for prospective students and those currently enrolled in a PhD or Masters by Research program.

Outbound Exchange

The Exchange program allows students to study at an overseas institution through the University's Exchange or Fee-paying programs.

Language Exchange Club

Any student studying a language is welcome to join the program and converse with a native speaker. Come here to make friends, international contacts and improve you language skills naturally!

SoLL Scholarships

LINGP01 - Linguistics and applied linguistics PhD program

School of Literature, Languages and Linguistics

Linguistics

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• ANU College of Arts & Social Sciences
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The study of linguistics at ANU draws upon the expertise of the largest concentration of linguists in the southern hemisphere, and of people teaching the largest number of languages in Australia. In the 2021 QS rankings, ANU Linguistics was ranked #1 in Australia, and #22 in the world.

ANU has strengths in Linguistics, Applied Linguistics and Forensic linguistics, and offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in these areas. In this, we examine the nature of human language from a scientific point of view: how we use language to communicate; the scope of differences and similarities in languages across the world; how languages vary and change over time and what factors impact that; how meanings are expressed and can be described; how children and adults acquire language; communication differences across cultures, and much more. Applied Linguistics approaches these questions with a focus on language as a cognitive and social phenomenon, working in contexts such as language teaching, healthcare communication, historical linguistics and the maintenance and revival of Indigenous languages, and their place in education systems. In Forensic Linguistics, linguistic skills are applied to assist criminal investigations and to contribute to solving legal cases.

ANU also has great strengths in language description, with more than forty years of research in descriptive and comparative study of the languages of Australia, the Pacific, Papua New Guinea, South-East Asia, China and Japan.

We are home to several leading research centres.

The ARC Centre of Excellence for the Dynamics of Languages builds on ANU’s traditional strength in language description, and its emerging strength in sociolinguistics, as well as on cross-disciplinary work with anthropologists, philosophers, biologists and psychologists.

The Institute for Communication in Health Care works to translate cutting edge communication research into best practice and training for safe and compassionate healthcare.

The Australian National Dictionary Centre (jointly funded by The Australian National University and Oxford University Press Australia), which conducts research into Australian English, and provides Oxford University Press with editorial expertise for their Australian dictionaries

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Language, Literature and Culture

Undertake a phd in language, literature and culture.

Gain expertise in a specialised area of language, literature and culture

Pursue an advanced research project in English literary studies, philosophy, communications, or applied linguistics, and expand our understanding of the cultural and social forces that shape and steer the world today.

Research supervisors 

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Master of Arts (Research)

Duration: 2 years

Delivery mode: In person

Location: Bedford Park

CRICOS code:  106282D

Annual fees: 2024: $36,300

Further information on fees listed

Doctor of Philosophy (Humanities)

Duration: 4 years

Delivery mode: In Person

CRICOS code:  106266D

Why undertake a PhD in Language, Literature and Culture

• Gain expertise in a specialised area.  You will become an international expert in your topic
• Make a difference to the world. Your research has the potential to improve people’s lives by understanding how our culture, and how we communicate, enables us to express ourselves, create new things, connect with each other, and make sense of our surroundings
• Explore a fascinating research question that no one has answered before. You will have the opportunity to fill a gap in current knowledge or answer a previously unresolved issue in your field

Your career

A PhD gained in an area of Language, Literature and Culture at Flinders provides a wide range of skills valued in all types of organisations and careers. It will enhance your creative practice, analytical and communication skills, provide you with skills to quickly learn new concepts and adapt to change, and enhance your time management, organisation and resilience skills.

A PhD is a stepping stone to a career as a professional researcher in the public sector, think tanks, charities, universities, and private corporations. Individuals with PhDs in languages, literature and culture are highly sought after for various professions in public and private organisations and have found roles in writing, the law, public service, consulting, advising, teaching and publishing.

Potential occupations include:

• Consultant or advisor
• Professional researcher

Potential employers include:

• Universities
• Think tanks
• Public sector
• Private corporations

Potential research supervisors

Flinders Language, Literature and Culture academic staff are recognised as leaders in their fields both in Australia and globally. Our academic supervisors draw on their extensive knowledge and exciting research covering topics related to Gothic and Romantic literature, graphic texts, Continental philosophy and English as a global language.

Learn what to prepare before approaching a potential research supervisor.

Ready to find the perfect supervisor for your research journey?

Explore Research @ Flinders.

Language, Linguistics & TESOL

Get inspired

How academic friendship transformed our phd experience.

While both completing a Life Writing PhD at Flinders, Edith Hill and Marina Deller reflect on how their friendship has supported their research.

Best before date - Ingrained ageism in literary fiction

A middle-aged women herself, HDR student Rebecca Carpenter-Mews is researching exactly how older women are depicted in contemporary fiction as part of her English literature PhD.

How to apply

Review the course rule

Check your eligibility

Find a research supervisor

Find out about scholarships and fees

Prepare your application

Enquire now

If you have a question about how to apply, please review our Frequently Asked Questions before submitting an enquiry.

For all other course enquiries complete the enquiry form.

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• Applied Linguistics

Linguistics

• Translation and Interpreting
• English as an International Language

Linguistics – the scientific study of language – explores how humans communicate by examining the relationships between structure, meaning and context.

Linguistics can be complemented by studies in a wide range of Arts, Humanities and Sciences. Some of the areas that are commonly studied alongside linguistics are:

• Languages: any one or more of the modern languages offered in the School of Languages and Cultures or the classical languages offered in the School of HAPI
• Psychology: particularly for those with an interest in child language development or language processing
• Education: possibly alongside languages for those wanting to be language teachers, or with early childhood education for an understanding of language development
• Anthropology: to gain a deeper understanding of the relationships between language and culture
• Mathematics: for those with an interest in language structure and modelling
• Physics: especially for those with an interest in the acoustics of speech
• Writing: to deepen understanding of how written language draws from, and where it differs from, natural spoken language

Our courses encourage you to develop a deeper understanding of how sounds (phonetics & phonology), words (morphology), sentences (syntax), meaning (semantics) and social cues (sociolinguistics) can create or confound communication.

Our Staff in linguistics research and teach in a variety of areas, including the documentation and analysis of Aboriginal languages, phonetics and phonology, morphology, syntax, discourse and conversation analysis, historical linguistics, cognitive linguistics and voice training.

A background in linguistics is highly relevant to many professions including teaching (especially language teaching, English teaching, teaching English as a second languages (TESOL)), translation, language and speech technology, language policy and planning, speech pathology, cognitive science (including computer science and artificial intelligence), publishing, the legal profession and intelligence analysis.

You may consider:

• Teaching: become a better teacher by learning more about the structure of English. Knowing how languages work helps you learn and teach other languages.
• Language documentation: join the world-wide movement to document endangered languages; work with Indigenous people in Australia to record their languages
• Writing: become a better writer by learning about the beauty of language, its sounds, structures and uses
• Forensic linguistics: become a consultant for the police, analysing recording to provide evidence in cases
• Editing: work for a publishing company
• Linguist: work for an Aboriginal language entre of the government helping to design and run language revitalisation programs.
• Software engineering: Create programs which transcribe speech as you talk
• Travel writing: work for a travel guide writing the language sections in guide books

Undergraduate

• Linguistics  Major
• Linguistics Minor (visit Study at UQ  for further details)
• Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Linguistics

A pathway that shows courses over 3 years is available. 

View pathway

Postgraduate

Research programs                                                                                   .

• Master of Philosophy
• Doctor of Philosophy  

Coursework Programs       

• Linguistics Major

What our graduates are doing

Researcher Exploring Indigenous Languages

I've since spent most of my time in regional and remote Northern Territory, working for language centres, becoming an interpreter, teaching at an all-Indigenous college, doing consultancies and translations for TV and arts projects, becoming a language advocate and blogger and more, before ending up back in the university system. Having just completed a PhD through ANU, I’m excited to be at UQ as a Postdoctoral Fellow, back where it all began, but still broadening my horizons by learning more about the world of linguistics and the insanely interesting Indigenous languages spoken by great people I’ve had the chance to meet in Northern Australia."

Greg has a Bachelor of Arts (Linguistics) from The University of Queensland.

Get involved

As a student at UQ, you have many opportunities to get involved and enhance your language learning experience, including exchange, joining clubs and participating in conversation classes.

Reading Groups organised by linguistics staff are a great way to meet others with a shared interest and are organised and run each semester. Further details on reading groups can be obtained by emailing  Dr Rob Pensalfini .

There are also a number of school events held throughout the year such at public lectures, seminars and conferences which students are encouraged to attend. Details for these events are published on the  School Events page.

Clubs and Societies

Joining a club or society is a great way to learn new skills and meet new like-minded people. There are over 190 affiliated clubs and societies at UQ. The Linguistics Society is one such club where you might meet others with similar interests (find them on  Facebook ). The aim of the Linguistics Society is to network students and professionals, help them achieve their full potential in Linguistics and to provide opportunities for them to socialise with like-minded people. Visit  clubs and societies  for a full list, and find one that interests you. 

Undergraduate Research Programs

The UQ Summer and Winter Research programs are a great opportunity for advanced students to get involved in some of the research projects our linguistics staff are working on. These programs provide a scholarship to students to work alongside some of the University’s most talented researchers during semester vacation. Further details on the programs can be found on the UQ Advantage site. 

School of Humanities

Linguistics

Language is what makes us human – it’s more than just a system of communication.

The study of linguistics helps us to become more aware of our use of language. It assists greatly in the learning and teaching of languages. It is particularly vital for teaching and recording Indigenous languages to ensure their survival for future generations.

Our teaching

The Department of Linguistics offers courses in the core areas of phonology, morphology and syntax and semantics to develop the skills needed for language documentation and analysis. These are complemented by sociolinguistic courses which examine language in society, communication and miscommunication.  We have a particular focus on Indigenous languages and language revival.

Our department is involved with the Kaurna Warra Pintyanthi (KWP) and  Mobile Language Team  (MLT).

  Study Linguistics  

Teaching staff

Tutors/Visiting Lecturers

Affiliates/research associates

Kaurna Warra Pintyanthi staff

Mobile Language Team 

Our research

From a language survey of Pulau Simeulue and Pulau Banyak, to other projects looking at remaining knowledge of German language and culture in the Barossa Valley, our research is varied and much of it based in the field.

HIGHER DEGREES BY RESEARCH

Our current projects

Aceh, indonesia: a language survey of pulau simeulue and pulau banyak.

Chief Investigators: Associate Prof. Rob Amery and Dr Zulfadli Aziz (Syiah Kuala University) SSP project, July to December 2016 Funded by the ARC Centre of Excellence for the Dynamics of Language (CoEDL) Aceh Islands Language Survey

Adnyamathanha Language Project

Promote the active speaking of Adnyamathanha (contemporary Indigenous Australian people from the Flinders Ranges, South Australia)

Chief Investigators: Clayton Cruise with assistance from Prof. Peter Mühlhäusler Commenced Jan. 2016 Funding: Indigenous Languages and the Arts (ILA) and First Languages Australia

Barossa Deutsch

Chief Investigator: Dr Peter Mickan Research Assistant/PhD Candidate: Kateryna Katsmann (2011-present)

This project looks at remaining knowledge of German language and culture in the Barossa Valley and ways to promote and support the use of the language. See Monatsblatt produced by the German Language Association Inc. (Deutscher Sprachverein).  Read more .

Communication in Mental Health

Driving health care efficiencies and patient care outcomes by improving communication across acute and primary transitions of care. The focus in South Australia is on communication in transition of mental health patients from acute to primary settings. ARC Linkage Project” LP140100563 Investigators: Dr John Walsh and Prof. Jon Jureidini Research Officer: Dr Nayia Cominos

Partner Organisations: Medicare Local, Central and Hills & Central Adelaide Local Health Network (CALHN)

Kaurna Dictionary Project

An AIATSIS Dictionaries Project for the Kaurna Language with additional ILA funding.

• Chief Investigator: Associate Prof. Rob Amery
• Research Assistant: Susie Greenwood

'Kaurna Warrapiipa - Kaurna Dictionary' published by Wakefield Press  

Kaurna Language Project: in collaboration with the Kaurna community

Associate Prof. Rob Amery has been working in collaboration with members of the Kaurna community to reclaim and re-introduce the Kaurna language since 1989. Amery’s PhD (1995-1998) is  published .

Research is currently focussed on lexicography and toponyms and production of Kaurna language resources (see  Kaurna Warra Pintyanthi ).

Literacy: An analysis of the linguistic trajectory

An analysis of the linguistic trajectory of the development of writing in one child based on the complete portfolio of writing of a child from her 12 years of schooling. Chief Investigators: Dr John Walsh and Dr Bill Winser MPhil Candidate: Ms Evita Ratcliffe

Language of Sport

An SFL analysis of the range of communications common in the contexts of elite professional sport. The specific focus in on the language of evaluation as expressed in the SFL system of Appraisal. To be published by Routledge in 2020 as 'A Linguistic Perspective on the Language of Sport' - Dr John Walsh, Dr David Caldwell & Prof Jon Jureidini

Ngarrindjeri Language Project

Analysis of Ngarrindjeri texts of the Lower Murray, lakes & Coorong region, as recorded in the book 'A World That Was' by Ronald & Catherine Berndt. ARC Project: DP150103287

• Chief Investigators: Associate Prof. Rob Amery & Prof. Jane Simpson (ANU)
• Research Associate: Dr Mary-Anne Gale

Norf'k Language Project

Long-term ongoing project commenced in 1989 The Nolfolk Island language is a unique case of language genesis and language development leading to a sustained language revival movement. The project has worked towards the recognition of the Norf’k language and development of ongoing support systems.

• Chief Investigator: Emeritus Prof. Peter Mühlhäusler
• The project has been supported by several ARC grants over the years.

Pidgin German: Investigation of colonial varieties of German

This is a long-term ongoing project based on unique recordings made in PNG in 1974. Commenced working with international partners: 2004 Chief Investigator: Emeritus Prof. Peter Mühlhäusler

Supported by the Institut für Deutsche Sprache and the University of Augsburg.

Psychiatric Case Formulation

Psychiatrists are faced with the challenge of articulating ‘Why this patient presents in this way at this time’. This is a key skill for psychiatrists. The project aimed to articulate how formulation is achieved linguistically. Investigators: Dr John Walsh and Prof. Jon Jureidini - Book chapter in 'Effective Communication in Clinical Handover: from Research to Practice' published by de Gruyter in 2016

Sustainable Language Revival

Towards Sustainable Language Revival: A critical analysis of Kaurna (2019-2021) ARC Project: DP190102413 Chief Investigators: Associate Prof. Rob Amery Research Associate: Dr Mary-Anne Gale Research Assistant: Ms Susie Greenwood

Industry connections

• The Australian Linguistic Society
• Applied Linguistics Association of Australia
• Centre of Excellence for the Dynamics of Language (CoEDL)
• The Foundation for Endangered Languages
• Languages and Cultures Network for Australian Universities (LCNAU)
• World Atlas of Linguistic Structures (WALS)
• The Linguist List
• Course in Phonetics, University of California at Berkley

Mobile Language Team

The Mobile Language Team (MLT) was established in 2009 to support work in Aboriginal languages throughout South Australia.

Visit Mobile Language Team

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Language, communication and culture

Department of linguistics.

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Multi-disciplinary research excellence

Macquarie has concentrated research excellence in language, communication and culture, an area that crosses multiple faculties, departments and disciplines at the University.

Macquarie's research in language, communication and culture features a wide range of world-class theoretical and applied inquiry across media, communication and cultural studies, language studies and linguistics.

At Macquarie we undertake world-leading research into the role of language, languages and cultural practices, in the creation and representation of social identities.

Above world standard

ERA 2018: Language, communication and culture

Significant impact

EI ratings 2018: Language, communication and culture

ERA 2018: Linguistics, comms, media and literary studies

Areas of specialisation

• Applied linguistics and educational linguistics
• Audiology and hearing science
• Child language acquisition
• Communications
• Cultural studies
• Historical, comparative and typological linguistics
• Language studies
• Linguistics
• Linguistic structures
• Media studies
• Phonetics and speech science
• Translation and interpretation studies.

Research collectives

Centre for Media History

Applied AI Centre

Centre for Language Sciences

Macquarie University Centre for Reading

Multilingualism Research Centre

• Language Centre Labs
• Performance and Entertainment Industries Facilities
• Screen Facilities
• The Futures Lab

Take a tour of these four  state-of the-art facilities within the Department of Media, Communications, Creative Arts, Language and Literature.

Within Linguistics we have:

• KIT – Macquarie Brain Research Laboratory
• MEG simulator .

Our collaborations

Macquarie has strong interdisciplinary connections with industry, government, NGOs and community groups to provide solutions on a local and global level. Our linguistic and language researchers collaborate with leading industry and sector partners, such as:

• Australian Hearing Hub
• Hearing Australia , including its National Acoustic Laboratories
• NextSense .

Research news

Read more about the breakthroughs happening in the areas of research relating to language, communication and culture.

The cardinal role

of press freedom and how to protect it.

Language development 

problems are common in under fives – and hard to spot.

Camp gives deaf children

a rare opportunity to be together.

Urgent call to declare

hearing loss a public health issue.

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Advance your career with a specialisation in linguistics

Linguistics, the study of language and its structures, is a dynamic field involving the process of analysing, understanding and describing language in all its forms. It is a rapidly evolving field, and with globalisation, the emergence of new technologies and cultural shifts, professionals who can embrace a constantly changing industry landscape will thrive.

UNE offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses and specialisations in linguistics which are specifically designed to equip you with the skills to adapt to linguistics-related industries as they evolve. UNE has a long-standing commitment to helping adults ready themselves for changes in the workplace. Our linguistics courses focus on key concepts and topics such as phonetics, syntax and language acquisition. These areas of study are essential in understanding the intricacies of language and preparing you to adapt to the advancements and changes that shape the field of linguistics.

At UNE, most of our students opt for online study, joining an inclusive community of experienced adults who collaborate to establish practical networks for the future. Students who prefer the on-campus life benefit from accommodation, sports, and support services. Study options are flexible, allowing for full-time or part-time enrolment across three trimesters.

At UNE you will gain the essential skills to excel in the evolving field of language analysis and communication, regardless of your chosen career path. By choosing UNE, you’ll be studying with an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, students award us the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.

Explore UNE’s linguistics offerings now. 

Courses by study level

Add an area of expertise to your CV and gain an undergraduate qualification — without committing to a full bachelor's degree. You will develop research, critical thinking, and writing skills in the core units. With the minor and elective units, you tailor the course to your specific interests and career objectives by choosing from an extensive selection of arts, humanities and social science units.

With our Advanced Diploma in Arts you have the freedom to explore related subjects, or a range of different topics. With this flexibility, your advanced diploma can be customised to your aspirational and practical needs. It will also qualify you to go on to a Bachelor of Arts if you're keen to continue your studies. Become future fit with these advanced studies. 

• 1.5 years full-time
• Up to 6 years part-time
• Trimester 1
• Trimester 2
• Trimester 3

One of our longest-standing degrees, the Bachelor of Arts (BA) is still relevant in today’s world. It equips you with the creative, critical and analytical skills in demand by employers, and is transferable across a range of workplaces. When you study a BA at UNE, you have the freedom to become a specialist in the discipline of your choice.

• 3 years full-time
• Up to 10 years part-time

Workplaces value employees who have a broad range of real-world skills, and this combined degree will equip you to excel in today’s dynamic working environment. In our Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Business, you’ll gain business knowledge and learn to think like an entrepreneur. You’ll develop creative and/or socio-cultural knowledge, plus skills in critical thinking and communication. Our degree fosters the accumulation of knowledge and the acquisition of a diverse set of skills, essential to helping you be an independent thinker, and empowering you to create a new future, new career prospects and the ability to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing modern workplace.

• 4 years full-time

The UNE Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws provides you with the opportunity to combine your study of law with an area of interest drawn from a wide variety of the arts, humanities and social sciences. As a double degree for the future, it has been developed in response to the needs of today’s rapidly changing workplaces and a growing employer demand for double degree graduates.

Your choice of arts major allows you to become an expert in a discipline of your choice. The legal knowledge and practical skills will also enable you to pursue many pathways in law, benefiting from UNE’s deep expertise in regional, rural and remote legal issues.

• 5 years full-time
• Up to 12 years part-time

Do you dream of a career where you’re helping to address the big issues facing humanity? Or perhaps you crave the excitement of being at the forefront of scientific discovery? Maybe you wish to instil your passion for the environment into future generations? Our Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science is uniquely positioned to help you reach your goals, with wide-spanning knowledge and a diverse set of skills to be adaptable in a rapidly changing world. This combined degree will help lay the foundation for you to acquire the ability to innovate and problem-solve — attributes that are in demand more than ever by employers in Australia and internationally.

Whether you are looking to re-train to become a Primary or Secondary school teacher, teach different subjects or upgrade your teaching accreditation, the UNE Bachelor of Education (In-Service Conversion) provides a flexible pathway to pivot and grow as an in-demand education professional. Upskill and enhance your on-the-pulse skills for the benefit of your career, your students and the profession at large. Stay relevant and pave the way for a successful teaching career in a supportive, flexible environment.

Please note: those studying music must pass an audition or be granted an audition waiver to gain entry into this course. Find out more.

Expand and hone your teaching knowledge while building a highly valuable breadth of skills with the UNE Bachelor of Education (K-12 Teaching). This is a dual sector degree giving you the flexibility to teach in both primary and secondary schools. It is accredited with the New South Wales Education Standards Authority (NESA) and is designed to meet the Australian Professional Standards for Teachers. In this course you will have the opportunity to specialise in subject areas that interest you most and gain experience in teaching to a wide range of age groups, culminating in sought-after skills to future-proof your education career.

UNE’s Bachelor of Education (Secondary Arts) offers a comprehensive program of study that provides you with the knowledge and practical skills to become a highly sought-after secondary school teacher.

Develop your teaching skills in a supportive, flexible environment. Learn how to create open and encouraging learning environments that put your students' individual learning styles at the forefront.

By studying at UNE, you will become an in-demand secondary teacher who makes a difference.

What could be more exciting than landing in a foreign country and immediately being able to speak the language and connect with the local culture? In an ever-changing world, the study of languages has never been more relevant, and our Bachelor of Languages is designed to help you develop proficiency in one or more languages.

The degree caters to anyone with a passion for languages, whether you studied a language at school or not, and includes majors in Chinese (Mandarin), French, German, Italian, Indonesian, Japanese and Spanish. The degree is interactive and immersive, and includes two trimesters studying in the country or countries of your chosen language/s.

By studying UNE’s Bachelor of Social Science degree you will develop a comprehensive and valuable understanding of human societies and social thought, behaviour and relationships in their varied social, psychological and political manifestations, with potential for a rewarding career in social science related areas. You will get a thorough grounding in sociology and psychology, plus you can choose from a broad range of majors including politics and peace studies, counselling, cultural diversity, philosophy, studies in settler colonialism, and criminal justice to satisfy your interests, research and work. With skills in research, critical analysis and evaluation that are transferable across a range of employment opportunities, you can ensure your career is future fit for life.

Are you looking to add an additional area of expertise to your CV to enhance your career prospects and become future fit for life, without committing to a full degree? Perhaps you just want to dip a toe into university study, with the option of continuing on to an advanced diploma or even a bachelor's degree? Well, our Diploma in Arts is the perfect way to achieve both goals. This course will equip you with a variety of fundamental skills and knowledge in a range of subjects in the arts, humanities and social sciences.

• 1 year full-time
• Up to 4 years part-time

The UNE Undergraduate Certificate in Arts provides you with foundational knowledge and skills to prepare for further study and more career choices, with a focus on your chosen area of interest.

With the freedom to assemble your course from a curated set of units, you’ll be supported to develop your critical thinking, research capabilities and perspectives through individual study, work-integrated learning and guided project activities.

Study this course if you want to explore a topic in greater depth, pave the way for further study options or stand out in the eyes of employers.

You will learn in a highly flexible environment with access to UNE’s supportive lecturers, student advisors and course coordinator to help you achieve your goals.

• 1 year part-time

Did your arts degree prompt a burning question or a passion for independent research? If so, consider applying for an honours year. A 'capstone' to your formal education, honours is an opportunity to drill deeper into a specialised area, to extend your intellectual range, and sharpen your research capabilities. It will enable advanced communication techniques and deep subject knowledge, to hone your analytical abilities, and gain high-level personal and professional skills. These are valuable attributes that provide a solid foundation for postgraduate study, give you a competitive edge in the job market, and help future proof your career in a rapidly changing world.

• 2 years part-time

Are you a graduate looking to add new skills to your CV to reinforce or redirect your career? Perhaps you are keen to pursue a personal interest in the arts or humanities. Or maybe you are interested in completing a master's but aren't sure if you can commit to a full degree. If any of the above fits your situation, the Graduate Certificate in Arts is the perfect course for you.

Select a single major on which to focus your studies, including: Ancient History, Archaeology, Asia Pacific Studies, Classical Languages, English, Environmental Advocacy, Geography, History: Australian and World Histories, Linguistics, Media and Communications, Medieval and Modern European Studies, Philosophy, Political and International Studies, Sociology, Studies in Religion, Studies in Settler Colonialism, Theatre and Performance, World Literatures and Writing.

In addition, you will be trained to discover and process information, think independently, and communicate effectively.

• 0.5 or 1 year full-time

Adapt to an evolving workplace and open the door to new career opportunities with UNE's Graduate Certificate in Professional Practice. Whether you want to create more career choices, hone your specialist skills, or take a new career direction, we will work with you to customise a course to match your skills and aspirations.

Choose from a full breadth of subjects. Avoid getting bogged down in a lengthy, traditional course, and instead, play to your natural strengths, refine your skills and draw on your experience to prepare for the future. And do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor with 1:1 guidance from start to finish.

• 0.5 years full-time

Design a bespoke course and prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace with the UNE Graduate Diploma in Professional Practice. Whether you want to advance your career, hone your skills or embark on a new career direction, we'll work with you to design a course to match your skills and aspirations. You will have the freedom to assemble your course from a full breadth of subjects, play to your strengths and draw from your experience to achieve your goals. Learn in a way that suits your timeframe and do it all with the support of an expert academic success advisor — with one-on-one guidance from start to finish. You'll be paving your pathway to the next stage of your career.

With the advent of globalisation, issues relating to language and intercultural communication have never been more relevant. UNE's fully online Master of Applied Linguistics will give you the ability to understand the design of language, nuances and context of language and intercultural communication – invaluable skills in an increasingly interconnected world, and especially important when teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL).

• 1 or 1.5 years full-time

UNE’s Master of Arts is designed to equip you with specialised knowledge as well as a wide range of transferrable skills that employers highly value, such as communication and critical thinking. This course is also a focused pathway to higher degree research.  

With a master's degree, you can make a switch to a new career field or gain additional expertise to enhance your existing path. At UNE, you can select a major from 16 specialty areas, dive into research and tailor the program to your interests and career goals. 

The following majors are available: Ancient History, Archaeology, Asia Pacific, English, Geography, History, Studies in Settler Colonialism, Linguistics, Media and Communications, Medieval and Modern European Studies, Philosophy, Political and International Studies, Sociology, Studies in Religion, Theatre and Performance, Writing. 

Upgrade your skills in educational practice with the post-graduate UNE Master of Education (Coursework). In addition to a flexible program pathway with a wide range of curriculum options, you can build your expertise with one of four specialisations. Deepen your knowledge in a range of educational disciplines and engage your students with contemporary practice and theory.

Accelerate your career opportunities with the UNE Master of Teaching (Secondary). Gain the specialist knowledge and skills you need to become a sought-after teacher who makes a difference. Study online in a flexible timeframe that suits your lifestyle. Be positioned at the forefront of educational expertise to make your education career goals a reality.

2024 Teaching scholarships

Starting one of UNE's Teaching courses in 2024? You can get up to $40,000 toward your studies. For more information about the range of teaching scholarships available, register your interest now .

• 2 years full-time

A Doctor of Philosophy is the pinnacle of academic study. Using rigorous and systematic research, combined with critical analysis, you will add to society's understanding of complex issues at the cutting-edge of your discipline or profession.

When you complete your PhD at UNE, you will be recognised as an expert in your area of study. Your original discoveries and innovations will be applied to benefit society and industry in Australia and worldwide.

• 8 years part-time
• Research Period 1
• Research Period 2

High quality research and analysis allows us to better understand the complex issues we face in industry and society. With UNE's Master of Philosophy by research, your original findings and insights will add to the body of knowledge and inform decision-making in your specialist area.

You will work independently, with personalised support from recognised experts in your area of study every step of the way. Expand your expertise, hone your research skills, and immediately apply your knowledge in a research topic of your choice.

If you are enrolled at another university, you can choose to study subjects at UNE that will count towards your course. Apply as a cross institutional student directly and complete one or several individual subjects (units) from the full scope of UNE's discipline areas.

• 1 trimester full-time
• 1 trimester part-time

The world is full of possibilities, with so much to discover and learn. There are endless opportunities to enrich your knowledge to prepare for the future, but what if you don’t want to undertake a full degree? And how can you zero-in on the subjects that matter most to you? That’s what a Non-Award with UNE will help you to achieve.

Studying a Non-Award means you can learn without the need to complete entire course requirements or take on a full course load.  Whether it’s a language you want to learn, a business unit to enhance your career, an improvement of your IT skills, an update on education principles or developing your management style, Non-Award study gives you the flexibility and control to explore what matters to you.

• Bespoke Graduate Certificate: design your own  4 unit postgraduate course and have your work experience recognised in the process.
• ‘Fundamental’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four  fundamental units from a traditional degree. If you are planning a new direction, or adding a new set of skills to your portfolio, you may want to start with this option. These units provide a foundation, or a ‘base camp’, to return to if you want to later progress to a full degree.
• ‘Advanced’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four  advanced units from a full degree. This is a great strategy for staying current in your field, or advancing your knowledge.
• ‘Critical Content’ Bespoke Course: choose two, three or four units from any of the available units in a degree to create a  Critical Content Bespoke Course. This option lets you get the knowledge you need without the time and cost of a full degree.
• ‘Mix and Match’ Bespoke Course: combine two, three or four units from different degrees and disciplines to design your  mix and match Bespoke Course. This option lets you diversify your knowledge.

Design your bespoke course

What our students say

I graduated a year and a half ago attending the ceremony at Armidale while my three children watched from the crowd. I hope I have inspired them to go after what they want.

Find the right major or specialisation for your studies in Linguistics

With globalisation increasing demand for language professionals, UNE's linguistics offerings will empower you to stay ahead of the curve in this constantly developing field. Our courses equip you with the skills to navigate the world of language and communication.

• Undergraduate
• Bachelor Honours
• Postgraduate
• Specialisation
• Teaching Area
• Specialist Course

UNE's experienced linguistics teachers will help you explore the languages of the world and intercultural communication as you delve into the fundamentals of how we acquire and use language in education and other professional contexts. Use our advanced language learning and analytical technology.

Benefit from UNE's linguistics experts and develop the language skills to effectively teach others and safeguard your place in the global business environment. Use up-to-date tech programs to enhance learning and future-fit yourself for a career in a rapidly changing world.

Develop the practical teaching skills to teach language to primary students effectively, amid advancing education tech and an expanding emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. UNE’s well-established educators will ensure you are prepared to secure your place in the dynamic education sector.

Ensure you are future-fit with practical teaching skills in anticipation of advancing education technology and an expanding emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. UNE’s expertise in language teaching will develop your technical and interpersonal abilities to reinforce your position in education.

Benefit from UNE's linguistics experts and develop the language skills to secure your career in a global environment. Use up-to-date tech programs to enhance your learning and future-fit yourself in a rapidly changing world that is increasingly focused on diversity and inclusivity.

Benefit from UNE's well established linguistics department and develop the language skills to thrive in the global environment. Prepare for further study or future employment using our modern tech programs to enhance your learning in a world that is increasingly focused on diversity and inclusion.

Globalisation has driven demand for talented linguists in fields such as IT, education, politics, marketing and more. Undertake linguistics studies in growing areas of interest such as Indigenous language revitalisation and language diversity. Learn from UNE's world-leading lecturers.

Future-fit your career and learn to use the latest interactive multimedia tech to communicate with school students from various cultures whilst engaging them in language learning activities. UNE’s experts will develop your teaching skills and secure your place in the education sector.

Develop your teaching skills using current and emerging multimedia tech with UNE’s highly regarded educators. Future-fit yourself and learn how to effectively communicate with students in a primary or secondary school setting whilst engaging them in meaningful language learning activities.

Ensure you are future-fit with practical teaching skills in anticipation of advancing education technology and an expanding emphasis on inclusivity and diversity. Develop your technical and interpersonal skills to secure your future in teaching English as a second or other language.

Why study with us?

Careers in linguistics.

By studying linguistics with UNE, you will develop a versatile skillset that opens doors to various careers and industries. As the demand for language professionals continues to grow in our global world, individuals with expertise in linguistics can find opportunities in a variety of exciting settings.

• Language technology specialist Develop and implement language processing technologies, including speech recognition and machine translation.
• Data linguist Analyse and structure linguistic data for language-related projects such as voice assistants, chatbots and language modelling.
• Localisation specialist Adapt software, websites, and multimedia content to different languages and cultures.
• Cross-cultural consultant Provide expertise in intercultural communication and help organisations navigate diverse cultural contexts for effective collaboration.
• Speechwriter Write speeches and presentations for individuals, businesses or politicians, focusing on effective communication.
• Researcher Conduct linguistic research to deepen our understanding of language structure, evolution and its social and cultural implications.
• Teacher Teach languages to individuals or groups, from teaching English as a second language to specialised language instruction.
• Content strategist Develop strategies for creating and managing content that effectively communicates across different channels, considering linguistic and cultural factors.

A five-star experience

Five Stars, 18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

No.1 in NSW for Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

Five Stars for Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Browse other disciplines within Languages and International

• Community Development
• International Business
• International Studies
• Teaching Languages

What happens next?

Got any questions about a course you would like to study? Don’t hesitate to contact us , our Future Student team is standing by to help.

2024 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now !

Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.

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The University of New England respects and acknowledges that its people, courses and facilities are built on land, and surrounded by a sense of belonging, both ancient and contemporary, of the world's oldest living culture. In doing so, UNE values and respects Indigenous knowledge systems as a vital part of the knowledge capital of Australia. We recognise the strength, resilience and capacity of the Aboriginal community and pay our respects to the Elders past, present and future.

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• a temporary resident (visa status) of Australia.

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Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is an internationally recognised graduate research program that will enable you to become an independent researcher. 

With the guidance of an advisory team, you'll undertake a research project, produce an 80,000-word thesis and complete an oral examination.

A PhD takes 3 to 4 years full-time. Under guidance, you'll develop advanced research skills and knowledge in your chosen field.

The thesis is a substantial document that makes an original contribution to your field of research. Your thesis may involve an alternate format .

You'll need a strong academic background and you may need to submit a research proposal and other documents to support your application. About 1,000 PhD candidates join UQ each year researching a wide range of topics.

Research at UQ

UQ is one of Australia’s top research-intensive universities. Our research makes an impact on the world's cultural, environmental, economic and social challenges.

Learn more about UQ's research

Program highlights

• Be inspired and challenged to explore new ideas and develop greater understanding of complex questions with leading researchers.
• Access premier resources including one of Australia’s largest libraries, with more than 2 million physical resources and 116,800+ journal subscriptions.
• Foster and improve your skills through the Career Development Framework, created with industry.
• Learn from researchers whose work addresses national and global cultural, environmental, economic and social challenges.

35 in the world

CWTS Leiden Ranking 2023

51 in the world

Academic Ranking of World Universities 2023

Supervision

You have to find and contact a thesis supervisor before you apply

This supervisor will support, guide and mentor you through your research, and can introduce you to professional networks that will start your career.

Find a supervisor

3-Minute Thesis

The showcase event for research candidates is the 3-Minute Thesis (3MT). 

3MT is held each spring.

Learn more about the 3MT

Career development

UQ offers a range of development opportunities via the Career Development Framework (CDF) to help you develop portable skills for any career or industry.

Learn more about the CDF

Studying at UQ gave me the flexibility to expand my knowledge across different areas of science outside of my chosen specialty. Keeping my scientific and translational skills broad has allowed me to adapt to different environments and opportunities throughout my career.

18 April - 1 May

MBA Information Event

30 April - 1 May

Medicine Information Evening

1 May - 22 May

UQ's Sustainable Energy programs, Q&A webinars

Meet the expert: preparing for the future of pharmacy with Dr Nazanin Ghahreman-Falconer

4-minute read

Dual degrees with a Bachelor of Arts

Meet the expert: exploring nutrition education with Dr Olivia Wright

Entry requirements, gpa equivalent.

Select where you studied and your qualification to see the GPA you need to be considered for this program.

Meeting the GPA requirement doesn’t guarantee admission.

Academic entry requirements

You have to prove you are prepared for PhD study. You do this by showing you:

• have completed some research experience
• have completed an approved university degree  and
• can meet the English language requirements.

Approved degrees

An approved degree needs to be:

• in an area relevant to your proposed PhD project and
• completed no more than 10 years ago.

You need one of the following approved degrees to apply for a PhD:

• Master of Philosophy (or another research master’s degree); or
• Bachelor’s degree from an approved university with at least honours class IIA or equivalent; or
• Coursework master’s degree with an overall grade point average of 5.65 on the 7-point UQ scale which includes relevant research experience, approved by the dean; or
• Postgraduate degree (at least one year full-time or equivalent) with an overall grade point average of 5 on the 7-point UQ scale, together with demonstrated research experience equivalent to honours class IIA will be considered on a case-by-case basis; or
• Bachelor’s degree plus at least 2 years of relevant research experience , including research publications.

Research experience

You'll meet the requirements for admission into a PhD in terms of 'research preparedness' if you can provide evidence that you've planned and executed project work and/or a body of research with some independence.

To demonstrate this, we'll ask you to provide one of the following:

• with completed courses that aim to develop research skills (minimum value of #1 unit e.g. 50 per cent of a #2 unit course), and/or
• the completion of a supervised research project that includes an individually graded written report with a combined minimum course volume equal to #4 units at UQ.
• Scholarly papers involving a substantial contribution as an author, appearing in recognised academic journals or in volumes published by recognised academic publishers.
• Research or technical reports prepared for industry, government or business, which adhere to the broad conventions of academic publishing (i.e. contain an up-to-date review of relevant literature, a description of relevant research methods and an evaluation of results, etc.) and which identify you as a significant contributor.
• A portfolio of published creative work together with published critical discussion of some or all of that work, or of a comparable body of work by others, and which demonstrates your development of a scholarly approach to creative work as research investigation.
• Demonstrable industry or work experience where you can demonstrate that you have planned and executed a project, working with a high level of independence.

Student visas

International students who are accepted into full-time study in the Doctor of Philosophy are eligible to apply for an Australian Student visa (subclass 500).

This program has two CRICOS codes:

• 0100213 – Architecture, creative arts, education, health, information technology, management and commerce, mathematical sciences, social and cultural studies
• 0100214 – Agriculture and environmental studies, dentistry, engineering, human movement, medical studies, natural and physical sciences, pharmacy, psychology, veterinary science

Discuss your proposed project with us to determine which CRICOS code is most relevant for your visa application.

There are a number of requirements you must satisfy before a visa is granted, including the genuine temporary entrant (GTE) requirement.

Learn more about student visas

Additional entry requirements

Many departments will have additional entry requirements and may request documents to support your application, such as a research proposal. You should discuss these additional requirements with your potential thesis supervisor.

Additional application information

Minimum English language proficiency requirements apply, please refer to the English proficiency policy .

English language requirements

There are a few ways you can meet our English language requirements. If you sit a test, the following scores are needed for PhD admission:

Read our English language requirements

Scholarships

There are several types of PhD scholarship:

• tuition fee scholarship : this covers the fees charged by UQ for PhD study
• living stipend scholarship: this is a   fortnightly payment (or stipend) to support your daily expenses
• top-up scholarship: may be provided by external organisations, supervisors, or philanthropic donations. When awarded, they provide an additional payment on top of a living stipend scholarship. They cannot be held without a living stipend scholarship.

Each year, we award more than 600 scholarships to attract and support the highest quality higher degree by research applicants.

View all postgraduate research scholarships

University scholarships

UQ scholarships include:

• Graduate School Scholarships
• Graduate School Tuition Fees Scholarship
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Scholarships
• Earmarked Scholarships
• The Graduate School Scholarship

Other scholarships

Throughout the year we advertise a range of other research scholarships, including top-up scholarships, travel grants and external scholarships, including:

• Westpac Future Leaders Scholarship

How to apply for a scholarship

You can apply for many scholarships using the same form as your PhD application. External scholarships might have different ways to apply. 

Our Scholarships website explains how to apply for each scholarship. If you are applying for a non-UQ scholarship, outcome dates may vary.

Fees and costs

Tuition fees.

Your fees will vary according to your academic field, study load and whether you study internally or remotely.

Learn more about postgraduate research fees

Research costs

The department you enrol with will meet all necessary costs for your project, including:

• resource and facility costs: at UQ, which may include other organisations in Australia or overseas
• travel costs: to complete fieldwork, collect data, or to visit libraries or other repositories
• coursework costs: for courses studied outside the department
• relevant training: in particular methodologies or techniques.

How to apply

Before you apply, 1. check your eligibility.

Check your eligibility by reviewing the entry requirements for UQ's Higher Degrees by Research. If applying for a scholarship, check the scholarship's eligibility and important dates.

2. Approach a potential supervisor or find a project

You'll either need to find:

• a supervisor in your field who will support your proposed project.  Identify a researcher .
• a project you can join that suits your interests.  See available projects .

If you're choosing a researcher, you'll need to find one with relevant expertise and get agreement to support your PhD and project.

Many departments will require additional information to make a decision around your motivation, understanding, commitment, and financial support required.

They may request documents to support your application, such as a research proposal. You should discuss these additional requirements with your potential thesis supervisor.

3. Gather your documents

You will need to compile the necessary documents. We will accept scanned copies of original documents, but you will have to keep all original documents for the duration of your studies.

Upload all documents as PDFs and name your files like this: LASTNAME_firstname_document-name.pdf

If any of your documents is in a language other than English, you will need to send both the original document and an official translation.

Send the following documents with your application:

An academic CV assists us to determine your readiness to commence a higher degree by research. For the purposes of this application, your academic CV should be current (i.e. no more than 6 months old) and include information under the following headings:

Personal details

• your full name
• your contact details (phone number, email address, city and country of residence)
• nationality
• languages spoken and proficiency level for each
• your ORCID ID or other research output identifier (such as Google Scholar) if you have one (see the ORCID ID and research identifiers information provided by UQ Library).

As the purpose of this academic CV is to determine your academic suitability for a higher degree by research program at UQ and your competitiveness against other applicants, we only require information that is of direct relevance to our decision-making processes. With this in mind, please do not include the following in your academic CV:

• photographs/head shot
• marital status
• driver’s license
• date of birth/age
• hobbies and interests.

Educational qualifications and academic awards

List each of your formal educational qualifications in reverse chronological order (i.e. with the most recent formal educational qualification listed first). For each qualification, include:

• the commencing and end dates (month and year) for the qualification
• the full title of the qualification (e.g. Bachelor of Arts instead of B.A.)
• the institution attended and the enrolling school/administrative unit
• the city and country where the institution is located
• your Grade Point Average (GPA) for the overall qualification
• any academic achievement awards (e.g. Dean’s awards, subject prizes, University medals, thesis prizes etc.) received for the qualification
• if a research thesis was part of the qualification, include the title and word length of your dissertation.

As part of your application, please submit academic transcripts and degree certificates for each educational qualification you list.

Please do not include:

• high school qualifications
• the individual subjects/courses undertaken throughout your qualifications or the grades awarded for these
• training courses/professional development activities not resulting in a formal qualification.

Professional affiliations and memberships

List any professional/disciplinary associations or committees that you a member of and include:

• the commencing and end date (in years) for the affiliation/membership
• the name of the professional association or committee
• your membership type (e.g. student member, affiliate member, full member etc.) or role (e.g. committee member, secretary, president etc.).

Employment history

List each of your previous employment roles in reverse chronological order (i.e. with the most recent/current employment listed first) and include:

• the commencing and end dates (month and year) for the employment
• the title of each position
• the name of the employing organisation, the city, and country where you were based
• your main duties or accountabilities in that role, providing detailed information on any research-related activities
• any achievements during that role that are relevant to your proposed field of research .

Other research experience

List any voluntary, unpaid, or extra-curricular research-related projects or experiences you have undertaken (e.g. summer research projects, internships etc.) and include:

• the commencing and end dates (month and year) of the experience
• the name of the organisation, the city, and country where you were based

Research outputs

In reverse chronological order (i.e. the most recent output first) list your research outputs,  including for example research published or accepted for publication, research reports, and research by creative practice.

If needed, use sub-headings to separate refereed journal articles, published conference proceedings, edited book chapters, books, creative works, industry reports, invited papers, patents, media commentary, conference presentations and posters, invited talks etc. If applicable, use additional sub-headings to indicate if outputs are published , accepted for publication (but not yet in print), or (submitted but) under review .

Do not include any outputs/publications that are ‘in preparation’ .

For all research outputs, include:

• the output/publication reference using an official bibliographical style (such as Turabian/Chicago, APA, Harvard), including listing all authors in the order that they appear in the work with your name in bold
• the Digital Object Identifier (DOI), PubMed Identifier (PMID), International Standard Book Number (ISBN) or URL where applicable
• the standing of the journal or conference and the impact of the work (e.g. impact factors, citations and other metrics indicators)
• relevant indicators of national or international significance
• rejection rates for the outlet etc.
• how much of the original research you were responsible for (i.e. what was your role in the conception and design of the project and how involved were you in the analysis and interpretation of the research data on which the publication is based?)
• the extent to which you authored the paper.

Research grants and relevant awards

Include only those research grants and relevant awards that you have received at the time of making your application (i.e. do not list grants or awards that you applied for and did not receive or are awaiting a decision on). For each research grant/award, include:

• the name of the granting/awarding body and the country in which they are based
• the name of the grant/award
• the year(s) in which the grant was active or the year in which the award was made
• the amount of the research grant/award
• if relevant (e.g. for research grants), the title of your application.

Applicants from creative and professional-based disciplines may also include non-research grants and awards related to their creative or professional practice.

Research achievements relative to opportunity (optional)

In recognition of the diverse personal and professional pathways that applicants have experienced, you are invited to provide information ( maximum 200 words ) to contextualise your research outputs and achievements, relative to the opportunities that you have had to participate in research-related activities.

This section of the CV is optional and should only be included if you believe there are factors relevant to your research achievements that you would like the selection panels to know. Examples of factors include (but are not limited to):

• study/career disruptions due to illness, caregiving, natural disasters etc.
• non-linear academic or career progression, or a change in career direction
• reduced ability to take up research-related opportunities (e.g. attend conferences) due to caregiving responsibilities.

Academic referees

Please provide us with two referees who can comment on your academic work. For each referee, include their:

• honorific and name
• employing organisation and the city and country where they are located
• contact details, including office address, telephone, fax and email (preferably an institutional, rather than private, email address)
• an indication of the capacity in which you know this person (e.g. were they a lecturer or thesis supervisor, an employer, how long you’ve known them etc.). 

If possible, please include at least one:

• senior person (preferably your supervisor or the head of your organisational unit) closely associated with your current work, and
• person who is not a member of your proposed advisory panel/supervisory team.

Formatting and document specifications

We recommend that you use the below formatting settings to improve the readability of your CV:

• margins of at least 1.5 centimetres
• single line spacing
• no smaller than 12 point Times New Roman font (or equivalent)
• left justify text (not full justify)
• include your name and page number on each page
• be consistent in your formatting and spelling throughout
• limit the use of bold, underline, italics, and multiple font types.

Please proofread your CV carefully before uploading it to your application.

Save as a PDF and name your file: LASTNAME_firstname_CV.pdf

There is no page limit to your academic CV – it can be as long as required to include the information requested here.

Please include in your CV all the headings listed above – if you do not have any content to add for a particular heading please list ‘None to date’ under that heading .

An academic CV for employment purposes within Australia would not include the information requested here outlining your three most significant publications or your research achievements relative to opportunity. It would, however, include information about professional and service activities undertaken and may include a summary of your relevant research/teaching interest areas and skill sets – this information is not required in the CV you submit here for application to an HDR program.

This should show all study you have undertaken since secondary school, whether complete or incomplete, including the institution grading scale. The grading scale is often found on the final page or the reverse page; be sure to include all pages.

An academic transcript can also be called an:

• academic record
• diploma supplement
• statement of learning
• record of achievement.

A degree certificate is a legal document, imprinted with a university seal. It should state the name of your qualification and areas of study.

Include all degree certificates (testamurs) for post-secondary study with your application. If you studied in China, you must provide a:

• award certificate and
• graduate statement/certificate.

All applicants have to prove they can meet English language requirements . Any test scores have to be valid at your proposed commencement date.

Include a copy of the information page (with your photo) in your passport. This will verify your identity and ensure we can make offers correctly.

Include the contact details of two referees who will support your application. These referees will need to provide insight into your research experience.

We will contact your referees for a report, but you will need to enter their details into the application form.

Other documentation, originals or certified copies, may be required depending on your individual circumstances, for example:

• evidence of change of name
• proof of citizenship, if you are not a citizen of Australia or New Zealand by birth
• evidence of your Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander status
• previous research program information .

If you don't provide us with all documents it will take us longer to process your application. Your start date might then be delayed, or you might miss an admission or scholarship deadline. 

4. Apply online

Once you have prepared your application and contacted a potential supervisor, use the online application form to apply. Your application can only be assessed once your referees have responded to us, and all outstanding documents and school/institute endorsements have been received.

Important dates

The academic year for research students is divided into four research quarters (RQ).

Candidates applying for a Student Visa or UQ scholarship may need to apply earlier. Make sure you check  scholarship round application deadlines  and outcome dates before applying.

The agreed start date will be included on your Confirmation of Enrolment.

Find out more about research quarter dates

The academic year for research students is divided into four research quarters (RQ). You can start a PhD in any quarter, as long as the Census Date hasn't passed.

Candidates applying for a UQ scholarship may need to apply earlier. Make sure you check scholarship round application deadlines and outcome dates before applying.

The agreed start date will be included on your offer of admission.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander applicants

For support with applying – or if you have any questions about university life – get in touch with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies Unit.

Contact the ATSIS Unit

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39 Best universities for Linguistics in Australia

Updated: February 29, 2024

• Art & Design
• Computer Science
• Engineering
• Environmental Science
• Liberal Arts & Social Sciences
• Mathematics

Below is a list of best universities in Australia ranked based on their research performance in Linguistics. A graph of 5.73M citations received by 284K academic papers made by 39 universities in Australia was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University of Sydney

For Linguistics

2. University of Melbourne

3. University of Queensland

4. Australian National University

5. University of New South Wales

6. Monash University

7. Macquarie University

8. University of Western Australia

9. University of Technology Sydney

10. University of Adelaide

11. Queensland University of Technology

12. Griffith University

13. La Trobe University

14. Deakin University

15. University of Wollongong

16. Curtin University

17. University of Newcastle

18. Western Sydney University

19. Flinders University

20. University of South Australia

21. RMIT University

22. University of Tasmania

23. Swinburne University of Technology

24. University of Canberra

25. University of New England, Australia

26. James Cook University

27. Murdoch University

28. Charles Sturt University

29. Victoria University

30. Edith Cowan University

31. Australian Catholic University

32. Central Queensland University

33. University of Southern Queensland

34. Bond University

35. Federation University Australia

36. Southern Cross University

37. Charles Darwin University

38. University of the Sunshine Coast

39. University of Notre Dame Australia

The best cities to study Linguistics in Australia based on the number of universities and their ranks are Sydney , Melbourne , St Lucia , and Canberra .

Liberal Arts & Social Sciences subfields in Australia

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Doctor of Philosophy - Linguistics

Auckland , New Zealand

THE world university rank:  150

Course qualification

Entry score

Total course fee

AUD 21,358 ? NZD  22,979 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Linguistics

Dunedin , New Zealand

THE world university rank:  301

AUD 100,241 ? NZD  107,847 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy - Linguistics and Applied Linguistics

Bruce , Australia

THE world university rank:  67

AUD 178,312 ? AUD  178,312 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy (Linguistics)

Sydney , Australia

THE world university rank:  180

AUD 138,900 ? AUD  138,900 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Languages, Cultures and Literacies

Vancouver , Canada

THE world university rank:  251

AUD 20,404 ? CAD  18,595 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics

Toronto , Canada

THE world university rank:  351

AUD 79,003 ? CAD  72,000 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Classics

THE world university rank:  41

AUD 31,273 ? CAD  28,501 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

Doctor of Philosophy in Cognitive and Behavioural Ecology

St. Johns , Canada

THE world university rank:  501

AUD 19,738 ? CAD  17,988 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

THE world university rank:  21

AUD 27,256 ? CAD  24,840 Program fees are indicative only. Speak to your IDP study counsellor to get up-to-date course prices.

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