Linguistics Course: Admission 2025, Eligibility, Exams, Syllabus, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Updated on Dec 10, 2024 06:47 IST

Linguistics courses study language using scientific measures and methods. In Linguistics courses, students study the structure, formation, and evolution of languages. They study the social, political, cultural, and historical circumstances that shape and change language.

Students can pursue Linguistics at the certificate, Diploma, UG, PG, and Doctoral levels. To be eligible for this course, candidates must have completed their class 12th from a recognized board with at least 45% marks. Popular colleges that offer these courses include Fergusson College, Delhi University, Amity University, Benaras Hindu University, and Jawaharlal Nehru University. The average fees for a degree in Linguistics range from around INR 10,000 to INR 1 Lakh. 

On graduating with a degree in Linguistics, students can choose to build a career in fields like content writing, advertising, translation, lexicography, etc. The average salary that a Linguistics graduate can expect to earn lies in the range of INR 3 LPA to INR 8 LPA.

Linguistics Course Highlights

Working in government agencies, international organizations, or non-governmental organizations, linguists can support language rights, analyze language policy, and assist with language planning in multilingual societies.

Here is an overview of the important details related to the Linguistics course. 

Particulars Details
Course Name Linguistics
Linguistics Course Levels BA in Linguistics, MA in Linguistics, Diploma in Linguistics, PG Diploma in Linguistics
Linguistics Course Eligibility

UG- Candidate should have passed class 12th with 45% marks

PG- Candidate should have passed BA with 50% marks

PhD- Candidate should have passed MA with 60% marks

Linguistics Course Entrance Exams CUET, CUET PG, and UGC NET
Linguistics Course Fees INR 10,000 to INR 1 Lakh
Linguistics Course Average Salary INR 3 LPA-INR 8 LPA
Linguistics Course Job Profiles Teacher, Lecturer, Psychologist, Social Worker, Writer, Translator etc.
Linguistics Course Top Recruiters WHO, UNICEF, CRY, Goonj, Infosys etc.
Linguistics Course Top Colleges Fergusson College, Delhi University, Amity University, Benaras Hindu University, and Jawaharlal Nehru University.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Quick Links Related to Linguistics Courses:

Linguistics Courses

Why Pursue Linguistic Courses?

Linguistics is a vast field covering many topics. The fundamentals of phonetics and phonology are also included in his study. students analyze speech sounds and the organization of language. There are many reasons why students should pursue this course. Some of these reasons are: 

  • Linguistics encompasses a broad range of topics that delve into the structure, function, and expansion of human communication. The linguistics courses provide a thorough investigation of the science of language.
  • Linguistics is a comprehensive field that provides an intellectually stimulating and useful way to explore the complexities of human language. Linguistics promotes cultural awareness and understanding while developing strong analytical and communication abilities by exploring the foundation of language.
  • A foundation in linguistics opens doors to a variety of professional options in research, technology, education, and other fields, enabling people to significantly impact society.
  • Linguistics offers an engaging and fulfilling academic path that gives students invaluable knowledge and understanding for a variety of academic, professional, and personal pursuits.
  • Students gain analytical skills, a greater comprehension of the complexity of human language, and critical thinking talents throughout these courses, preparing them for a wide array of careers.

Relevant Links Related to Linguistics Courses:

Courses after 12th in Arts and Humanities.

Important FAQs related to Linguistics

Q. Is linguistics a good career?

A. Yes, linguistics can be a good career option for those who wish to make career in education, media, communication, publishing, computer languages and related fields. For individuals who have a strong interest in language and communication, linguistics can be a fulfilling career option. It provides a wide range of opportunities in a number of fields, including technology, translation, teaching, and research.

A career in linguistics gives people the chance to investigate the complexities of human language, further our knowledge of linguistic diversity, and solve practical language-related issues. Furthermore, the abilities acquired during linguistics study—such as analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication—are extremely versatile and useful in a wide range of professional settings. For those looking for cognitively challenging employment with a significant social impact, linguistics offers a strong foundation, even though the precise career route may differ based on personal interests and goals.

Q. What are the four areas of linguistics?

A. Four areas of linguistics are as follows:

  • Morphology - deals with the study of the formation of words. 
  • Syntax - deals with the study of the formation of sentences. 
  • Semantics - related to the study of meaning. 
  • Pragmatics - related to the study of language use.

Q. What are the courses in Linguistics?

A. Students can study BA and MA in Linguistics:

Course

Duration

Fees (In INR)

Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Linguistics

3-Years

Ranging from 3,000 to 50,000

Master of Arts (MA in Linguistics

2-Years

Ranging from 5,000 to 75,000

Q. What are the skills required to study Linguistics course?

A. Students who are interested in pursuing a course in Linguistics, need to have the required skills in order to ace the course:

Skillsets for Linguistics

Knowledge

Patience

Calm and Composed

Curious

Visionary

Creative

Understanding

Dedicated

Passionate

Helpful

Team Leader

Problem Solver

Kind

Compassionate

Q. What is the admission procedure for Lingusitcs courses?

A. Admission to Linguistics courses involves the below steps: 

Chose University/College: The first step is to search for colleges or universities which are offering Linguistics programmes and courses. The aspirant will have to check the fees, the seats offered, eligibility criteria which is set for the course.

Apply for Course: Once the candidate has found the university offering a course in Linguistics, proceed to apply for admission. Fill up the details as required and pay the application fee. The application forms are available for a limited period of time so the candidate is advised to know the details way in advance.

Mode of Admission: Universities and Colleges will either conduct entrance exams for admission or offer admission through merit. For postgraduate courses, the candidate will have to appear for an entrance exam.

Results: Selected and qualified candidates make the merit list. The student has to get the desired rank and percentage, to be eligible for admission. For postgraduate courses, entrance exams are conducted.

Counselling: The candidate will have to appear for the counselling session conducted at the university to book their seat, submit their documents and pay the fees to seal admission.

 

Q. Which colleges are offering Linguistics courses?

A. Students can see the below table to learn the colleges and the linguistics programmes offered by them: 

Colleges

Programme

AMU - Aligarh Muslim University

  • BA Linguistics
  • MA Linguistics
  • PhD Linguistics

Calcutta University

  • MA Linguistics
  • PhD Linguistics

Central Institute of Indian Languages

Program in Indian Languages

Allahabad University

MA Cognitive Science

Deccan College of Post-Graduate and Research Institute

  • MA Linguistics
  • MPhil Linguistics
  • PhD Linguistics

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar University

  • MA Linguistics
  • MPhil Linguistics
  • PhD Linguistics

IIT Bombay - Indian Institute of Technology

PhD in English

IIT Kanpur - Indian Institute of Technology

PhD In Linguistics

JNU - Jawaharlal Nehru University

PhD in Linguistics

Lucknow University

MA Linguistics

DU - Delhi University

MA Linguistics

Linguistics Courses Eligibility Criteria

Students need to fulfill a basic eligibility criterion to seek admission to a Linguistics course. For admission to undergraduate courses, students need to have passed 10+2 from a recognized board. Some of the institutes offer admissions only based on merit, others give entry on the score of entrance examinations.

Many institutes have their own parameters that a student must fulfill to get admission. Students are advised to check the official websites of colleges before filling out the application forms. The general eligibility criteria that are followed by most universities have been listed below. 

Course Level

 Eligibility Criteria

Undergraduate in Linguistics

Students who have passed 10+2 with 50% marks from a recognized board.

Postgraduate in Linguistics

Graduation in any course from a recognized university with a minimum of 45% marks in bachelor’s degree. 

Post Graduate Diploma in Linguistics

Students who have completed graduation can pursue this one-year post-graduate diploma course.

Certificate Linguistic Courses

The student must have passed class 12th.

Doctoral Linguistics Courses

Students who have completed their postgraduation in Linguistics or a relevant field, with at least a 45% aggregate score.

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may vary.

Linguistics Courses Admission 2025

The admission process for a Linguistics course varies from college to college, depending upon their admission criteria. Students are advised to properly research the admission process for universities that they wish to apply to. The general admission procedure that is commonly followed in institutions is mentioned below. Interested candidates can go through the general outline of the Linguistics course admission process in top Indian colleges:

  • Eligibility: Completion and passing of Class 12 in any stream.
  • Entrance exams: Appear for national/state-level/college-specific entrance exams conducted annually.
  • Application Process: Timely submission of applications to Linguistics colleges/universities along with all the necessary documents.
  • Counselling: Participate in counseling sessions based on entrance exam scores or merit.
  • Admission: Complete the admission process on time by paying the fees and submitting documents for college verification.

Linguistics Courses: Entrance Exams 2025

Admission to various Linguistics courses can be obtained through entrance examinations. Universities generally admit students based on their academic qualifications, rank and score in entrance exams, and sometimes, other additional criteria like Personal Interviews and Group Discussion rounds.

Students can check the dates and details of some popular entrance exams for Linguistics courses in the table below:

Linguistics Courses Entrance Exams

Linguistics Courses Entrance Exam Dates

Linguistics Courses Entrance Exam Schedule

Common University Entrance Test (CUET)

May 2025 (Tentative)

CUET Schedule

Common University Entrance Exam- Postgraduate (CUET PG)

March 2025 (Tentative)

CUET PG Schedule

University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET)

June 2025 (Tentative)

UGC NET Schedule

Note: This information is sourced from the official website and may change.

21 Feb ' 25

SAT Registration Deadline for March Test

25 Feb ' 25

SAT Deadline for Changes, Regular Cancellation, a...

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Counselling Start

TENTATIVE

Jun '24

CT SET 2024 Result

TENTATIVE

Feb '25 - Apr '25

CUET 2025 Application Process

TENTATIVE

Apr '25

CUET UG 2025 Application Form Correction

TENTATIVE

Jun '25 - Jul '25

CPGET 2025 Applications

TENTATIVE

Jul '25

CPGET 2025 Admit Card Release

TENTATIVE

Important Exam Dates

DatesPast Exam Dates

05 Jun '23 -

17 Jun '23

DU CUET PG 2023 Exam

Jun '23

CUET PG 2023 Exams

21 May '23 -

31 May '23

DU CUET UG 2023

Q:   What is CUET UG exam?

A:

Common University Entrance Test (CUET) UG is an entrance examination conducted for admission to undergraduation programs offered by various central, state, private and deemed universities. Candidates willing to take admission to undergraduation programme in streams like Science, Humanities, Commerce, Law and Management must appear for the CUET UG exam when conducted.

The entrance examination assesses candidates at various levels: Language, domain knowledge and general aptitude. CUET UG is conducted annually in computer based mode. CUET UG scores are accepted by more than 300 universities across India. 

Q:   What is CUET UG exam slot and timing?

A:

CUET 2025 will be held in two/three slots. The timing for the same will be released with release of CUET 2025 date sheet. Candidates will be able to know the exam centre and timing along with the release of CUET 2025 admit card. Tables below will be updated on release of the CUET 2025 date sheet:

CUET UG Exam in Pen Paper/CBT Mode

CUET Exam Date 2025

Shifts

Slot Time

CUET Subject/Code

To be updated

To be updated

To be updated

To be updated

Q:   What is the mode of the CUET PG exam?

A:

The CUET PG exam is conducted in computer-based test (CBT) mode. This means that the exam is taken on a computer, and the questions and answers are displayed on the screen. Candidates use a mouse or keyboard to select their answers.

The CUET PG exam is held in multiple sessions throughout the day, and candidates are assigned to a specific session during registration. The exam is two hours long and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions.

Q:   What is CUET PG examination structure?

A:

The following table brings the structure of the expected CUET PG question paper.

Part

Sections/Subjects

Number of Questions

A

Language Comprehension/Verbal Ability, General Test (GK, QA, Analytical Skills)

25

B

Domain knowledge

75

Candidates must note that the Language Comprehension/Verbal Ability section is compulsory. The General Test also has to be taken by candidates opting for all test papers except Education (PGQP01).

Q:   What is the exam pattern of UGC NET?

A:

According to the latest NTA UGC NET Exam Pattern exam consist 2 papers. Although, it will be conducted without any break in the fixed time duration of 3 hours, which means exam is conducted in single session. Exam is totally computer based. There is no negative marking so attempting all questions is compulsory. Both papers consist only MCQs. Paper 1 consist 50 questions of total 100 marks in an hour whereas paper 2 consists 100 questions of total 200 marks in 2 hours. Paper 2 is based on subject questions opted by the candidate. Paper 1 is totally based on teaching / research aptitude, reasoning ability, comprehension and general awareness. Hope the information helps.

Q:   What is UGC NET and its eligibility?

A:
UGC NET is exam of national level for qualifying for proffesorship in college. CONDITIONS OF ELIGIBILITY Candidates who have secured at least 55% marks (without rounding off) in Master s Degree or equivalent examination from universities/institutions recognised by UGC in Humanities (including languages) and Social Science, Computer Science & Applications, Electronic Science etc.

Types of Linguistics Courses

A Linguistics course can be pursued at the degree, certificate, and diploma levels. The course duration of a linguistics degree depends on the level at which it is being pursued. Some of the popular Linguistics courses and their course duration have been mentioned in the table below:

Linguistics Courses

Course Duration

BA in Linguistics

3 years

MA in Linguistics

2 years

PhD in Linguistics

2 years

Diploma in Linguistics

1 year

PG Diploma in Linguistics

1 year

Certificate in Linguistics

6 months to 1 year

Linguistics Course Syllabus

The curriculum of a Linguistics degree is vast and well-structured to include topics from many branches of the subject. The general syllabus of a Linguistics course has been mentioned below.

Linguistics Course Semester-1

Introduction to Linguistics

Phonetics and Phonology

Introduction to Psychology or General Education Requirement

Computational Linguistics

Linguistics Course Semester-2

Morphology

Introduction to Sociolinguistics

Introduction to Statistics or General Education Requirement

Sociolinguistic Variation

Linguistics Course Semester-3

Syntax

Semantics

Language Acquisition

Psycholinguistics

Linguistics Course Semester-4

Historical Linguistics

Machine Translation
Language Technology Lexicographic Programming

Note: The syllabus has been taken from multiple sources and may vary from college to college.

Linguistics Course Top Colleges

The colleges listed below provide a variety of undergraduate and graduate courses in linguistics to interested candidates. The colleges are mentioned alphabetically and not in any order of hierarchy.

Best Private Colleges for Linguistics Courses

The name of private colleges for Linguistics courses:

Name of College Fees (in INR)
Amity University, Noida INR 3.75 lakh
Christ (Deemed to be University), Ghaziabad INR 2.7 lakh
Christ University, Bangalore INR 2.3 lakh
K J Somaiya College of Arts & Commerce, Mumbai INR 2400
Mangalayatan University, Aligarh INR 40000 to INR 60000
Mithibai College of Arts, Mumbai INR 30000
Mount Carmel College, Bangalore INR 1.58 lakh
St. Jospeh's University, Bangalore INR 96000 to INR 2 lakh
St. Xavier's College, Mumbai INR 23400 - 1.5 lakh
Symbiosis College of Arts & Commerce, Pune INR 78000

Note: The fees have been taken from the official website and may change.

Top Government Colleges for Linguistics Courses

The course can also be pursued by a number of government colleges. Students can check the table below for more information about the colleges and their fee structure.

Name of College Fees (in INR)
Atma Ram Sanatan Dharam College, Delhi INR 432-INR 540
Daulat Ram College, Delhi INR 35000- INR 49000
Gargi College, Delhi INR 29000-INR 45000
Hindu College, Delhi INR 53000
Lady Shi Ram College for Women, Delhi INR 36000-INR 57000
MCC, Chennai INR 56000
Miranda House, Delhi INR 42000
Ramjas College, Delhi INR 29000-INR 42000
Sri Venkateswara College, Delhi INR 37000
T C Business School, Jaipur INR 44000

Note: The fees have been taken from the official website and may change.

2.88 L

#44 The Week

Linguistics Applications open. Apply Now

92 K

#79 India Today

2.43 L - 2.52 L

#84 India Today

Linguistics Applications open. Apply Now

#19 The Week

3 Courses
480
16 LPA
4.2 K
3 LPA

Popular Private Linguistics Colleges in India

2.43 L - 2.52 L

#84 India Today

Linguistics Applications open. Apply Now

3.6 L

Linguistics Applications open. Apply Now

2.88 L

#44 The Week

Linguistics Applications open. Apply Now

92 K

#79 India Today

#19 The Week

3 Courses
480
16 LPA

Linguistics Career Scope: Job Profiles, Average Salary and Top Recruiters

Candidates who take up this field must know that many people do not opt for this course as it is lesser-known about in today’s date, however, its value is far greater than known to people. The programmes in Linguistics are outfitted with advanced intellectual skills and aptitudes such as critical thinking, reasoning, and much more which will only enhance and hone one’s skills. Students can take up a career in government services, proofreading, dictionary compiling, writing, speech and language therapy, computer programming, and so forth.

Linguistics Job Profiles and Salary

Given below in the table are some of the job profiles for Linguistics degree holders:

Job Profiles Average Salary (INR)
Language Teacher/Instructor INR 2 LPA-INR 5 LPA
Translator/Interpreter INR 3 LPA-INR 8 LPA
Speech-Language Pathologist INR 3.5 LPA-INR 7 LPA
Lexicographer INR 3 LPA-INR 6 LPA
Language Technologist INR 4 LPA-INR 10 LPA
Content Writer/Editor INR 2.5 LPA-INR 6 LPA
Forensic Linguist INR 4 LPA-INR 9 LPA
Market Research Analyst INR 3 LPA-INR 8 LPA
Academic Researcher INR 3 LPA-INR 7 LPA
Language Policy Analyst INR 4 LPA-INR 9 LPA

Q:   Is Linguistics a good career option?

A:

Yes, linguistics can be a good career option for those who wish to make career in education, media, communication, publishing, computer languages and related fields. For individuals who have a strong interest in language and communication, linguistics can be a fulfilling career option. It provides a wide range of opportunities in a number of fields, including technology, translation, teaching, and research.

A career in linguistics gives people the chance to investigate the complexities of human language, further our knowledge of linguistic diversity, and solve practical language-related issues. Furthermore, the abilities acquired during linguistics study—such as analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and cross-cultural communication—are extremely versatile and useful in a wide range of professional settings. For those looking for cognitively challenging employment with a significant social impact, linguistics offers a strong foundation, even though the precise career route may differ based on personal interests and goals.

Linguistics Courses FAQs: 2025

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions related to Linguistics courses:

Q:   What is the admission procedure for Linguistics courses?

A:

Admission to Linguistics courses involves the below steps: 

Chose University/College: The first step is to search for colleges or universities which are offering Linguistics programmes and courses. The aspirant will have to check the fees, the seats offered, eligibility criteria which is set for the course.

Apply for Course: Once the candidate has found the university offering a course in Linguistics, proceed to apply for admission. Fill up the details as required and pay the application fee. The application forms are available for a limited period of time so the candidate is advised to know the details way in advance.

Mode of Admission: Universities and Colleges will either conduct entrance exams for admission or offer admission through merit. For postgraduate courses, the candidate will have to appear for an entrance exam.

Results: Selected and qualified candidates make the merit list. The student has to get the desired rank and percentage, to be eligible for admission. For postgraduate courses, entrance exams are conducted.

Counselling: The candidate will have to appear for the counselling session conducted at the university to book their seat, submit their documents and pay the fees to seal admission.

Q:   What are the skills required to study Linguistics course?

A:

Students who are interested in pursuing a course in Linguistics, need to have the required skills in order to ace the course:

Skillsets for Linguistics

Knowledge

Patience

Calm and Composed

Curious

Visionary

Creative

Understanding

Dedicated

Passionate

Helpful

Team Leader

Problem Solver

Kind

Compassionate

Popular Linguistics UG Courses

Following are the most popular Linguistics UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Linguistics PG Courses

Following are the most popular Linguistics PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

Popular Linguistics Specializations

Following are the most popular Linguistics Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

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