Overview

The Linguistics programme at Columbia University provides students with a rigorous foundation in the scientific study of human language and its diverse cultural applications. By examining the inner properties of linguistic mechanisms, learners gain a sophisticated understanding of how language informs mental activity and social structures. This course of study is designed to equip undergraduates with the conceptual apparatus and research techniques necessary for professional academic inquiry.

Why Linguistics at Columbia University?

Studying at this institution offers students access to a highly developed field of knowledge that integrates seamlessly with disciplines such as analytical philosophy, computer science, and anthropology. The programme is distinguished by its global perspective, offering unique opportunities for undergraduate research and travel. Students have previously engaged in projects ranging from sign language studies in Nicaragua to language documentation at the Max Planck Institute. Furthermore, the university provides a dedicated senior thesis seminar, allowing majors to conduct original research under the guidance of expert affiliated faculty.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 70170 per year
National fee: USD 70170 per year
Local fee: USD 70170 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum is structured to cover core linguistic theories alongside diverse thematic areas. Students must complete a foundational sequence followed by specialised modules. Modules may include:

Phonetics & Phonology
Syntax
Language History
Language & Society
Endangered Languages in the Global City
Word and Grammar
Language Documentation & Field Methods
Languages of Africa
Semantics

Careers with Linguistics

Graduates of the Linguistics programme are well-prepared for a variety of professional paths and advanced academic pursuits. Many alumni have secured prestigious Fulbright Fellowships to conduct research in Germany, Georgia, and Taiwan. The analytical skills developed during the degree serve as an excellent foundation for graduate study at top-tier institutions or for entering competitive law schools, including Harvard, UCLA, and NYU. The programme's focus on complex systems and data analysis also supports careers in emerging fields such as natural language processing and cognitive science.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Phonetics and Phonology

Syntax

Language History

Advanced Grammar and Grammars

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-08 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-01 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

135

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TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

Prepare for Your English Test

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Manhattan, United States

Disciplines

Linguistics View 450 other Bachelors in Linguistics in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

135

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

105

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

7.5

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

Autobiographical information

Lists and descriptions of a student’s achievements, activities, employment and summer activities

Personal essay

An official high school transcript from all high schools attended

One high school counselor’s recommendation and school profile

The completed Mid-Year Report

SAT or ACT

Applicants may self-report their scores

English proficiency examination score (if necessary)

These recommendations must come from teachers who taught you in academic disciplines

For engineering applicants, one must come from a math or science teacher

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

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Out-of-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

70170 USD / year

≈ 70170 USD / year

Living costs

Manhattan

United States

2638 - 5751 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

Manhattan

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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