Overview

The Linguistics major at University of California, Santa Cruz introduces students to the rigorous scientific study of human language. By mastering diverse methodologies and perspectives, students explore the central aspects of linguistic structure and cognitive processing. This programme encourages a deep understanding of how language functions as a fundamental human faculty.

The curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in the field, blending theoretical knowledge with practical analytical skills. Students engage with the physical properties of speech sounds and the complex rules that govern sentence formation. This academic journey prepares individuals to investigate the intricate relationship between language, culture, and identity.

Why Linguistics at University of California, Santa Cruz?

The university offers a distinctive environment for studying linguistics within the Behavioral and Social Sciences and Humanities frameworks. Students benefit from specialised initiatives like the Humanities EXCEL programme, which provides opportunities for community outreach and advocacy. These partnerships allow students to apply linguistic theory to real-world cultural empowerment and accessibility projects.

Research at the institution is supported by a dedicated department that focuses on innovative areas such as psycholinguistics and speech technology. The academic community celebrates diversity and creative expression, ensuring that students can explore the role of language in various social contexts. This holistic approach fosters both intellectual growth and professional development.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 37602 per year
National fee: USD 37602 per year
Local fee: USD 16785 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

Modules may include:

Phonology
Phonetics
Psycholinguistics
Syntax
Semantics
Pragmatics
Language Acquisition

Careers with Linguistics

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse professional paths in technology, education, and communication. Many find success in language engineering, speech technology, and information processing within the computer science sector. The analytical skills gained are also highly valued in data analytics and library science roles.

The programme provides a strong foundation for advanced study in experimental psychology, child development, or law. Career opportunities also extend to speech-language pathology, bilingual education, and teaching English as a second language. Additionally, graduates often pursue roles in translation, interpretation, writing, and professional editing.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Linguistics

Semantics

Phonology

Syntax

Syntactic Structures

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-23 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-07-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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TOEFL^® IBT

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

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98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Santa Cruz, United States

Disciplines

Linguistics View 450 other Bachelors in Linguistics in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

3.4

3.0 GPA For California residents

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You must achieve a minimum GPA of 3.00 in the "a–g" courses.

Non-residents must earn a minimum GPA of 3.40.

Take the ACT Plus Writing or the SAT with Essay

The ACT Assessment plus the ACT Writing Test or the SAT with critical reading, mathematics, and writing scores from the same sitting.

Proof of English Proficiency

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

37602 USD / year

≈ 37602 USD / year
Out-of-State

37602 USD / year

≈ 37602 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

16785 USD / year

≈ 16785 USD / year

Living costs

Santa Cruz

United States

1710 - 2560 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Linguistics.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Santa Cruz

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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