NUS is ranked #12 in the world for Linguistics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 and the MA in English Language and Linguistics (Coursework) reflects it. The MA explores language acquisition, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis, language endangerment, psycholinguistics, and formal linguistics. These diverse and engaging courses that delve into linguistic phenomena are what drew student Jianlin Zhou from Anhui, China to the department. 

Through research projects, Zhou got to apply what he learned in seminars to real-world efforts to document and preserve endangered languages. “Engaging in a research project that tasked me with studying an endangered language spoken by a small community in Borneo has heightened my awareness of the significance of delving into various linguistic aspects,” he says. “This experience has underscored the importance of understanding and learning about elements such as phonology, syntax, typology, morphology, and pragmatics.”

Zhou’s interests lie in phonetics, phonology, and historical linguistics. He believes his NUS education will prepare him to “significantly contribute to future career paths” in these fields, such as in roles related to language education or AI speech recognition. “Fortunately, the courses offered at NUS encompass a wide range, providing ample opportunities for me to delve into these areas of study and enhance my expertise for future professional endeavours,” he says.

“The courses have imparted a wealth of linguistic knowledge that isn't typically covered in undergraduate-level classes,” he says. “Topics such as linguistic universals, field methods, and advanced psycholinguistics have been particularly enlightening.”