The Ph.D. in linguistics is an academic/professional research degree. Our program is designed to produce scholars who can carry out research on human language in any of its aspects within a contemporary theoretical framework, and which challenges, modifies, and extends contemporary theory. Our students also have the opportunity to investigate language in an interdisciplinary context, including language development and human language processing. Students are required to complete seven courses from a set of core course requirements, a course in professionalism, a workshop for preparing the written comprehensive examination, and additional courses and seminars in their areas of specialization. Following completion of the oral comprehensive examinations, students must submit a dissertation prospectus, and complete and defend a dissertation demonstrating their ability to undertake and carry out original research in linguistics. Students are encouraged to apply for and receive an MA degree in Linguistics along the way to the Ph.D.

Linguistics (PHD) at The University of Arizona Global
The Linguistics (PHD) at The University of Arizona Global is a PhD program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the University of Arizona - Main - Tucson campus in United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 5 years to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on August 22, 2027.
About Linguistics (PHD)
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Linguistics (PHD) at The University of Arizona Global
Entry Requirements
GPA Requirement
Prospective applicants must have a 3.0 or higher GPA in order to qualify for admission.
Statement of Intent
Applicants must submit a concise statement of intent demonstrating their academic goals, career goals, and why a graduate degree in linguistics would help him/her pursue these goals.
Writing Sample
Applicants must provide a writing sample to demonstrate their level and proficiency of writing.
Standardized Tests
The GRE is optional, not required for application to the PhD Program.
English Proficiency
English proficiency is one of the requirements for admission for all applicants whose native language is not English. Applicants must submit a minimum TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of 550 on the paper-based test (PB), 79 on the internet-based test (iBT), or a IELTS (International English Language Testing System) composite score of 7 (no subject area below a score of 6). International students seeking graduate teaching assistantships must attain the minimum TOEFL or IELTS score listed above, and in addition must attain a score of 26 or higher on the speak portion of the TOEFL IBT.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation from letter writers who know the student's work, specifically assessing student's ability to carry out graduate work in linguistics. Applicants are encouraged to submit letters of recommendation from professors who are familiar with the applicant's recent academic work.
Required test(s):
- GRE
- TOEFL or IELTS if non-native English Speaker
Minimum TOEFL: Score of 550 on the paper-based test (PB) or 79 on the internet-based test (iBT)
Minimum IELTS: Composite score of 7 (no subject area below a score of 6)
While we are not able to guarantee funding for all graduate students, the Department of Linguistics endeavors to fund all PhD students for four years, through a combination of fellowships, teaching positions, and research positions. Other sources of funding are available, and graduate students are expected to familiarize themselves early on with these opportunities. These include funding sources here at the University of Arizona (such as the Social and Behavioral Sciences Research Institute and the ConfluenCenter) and elsewhere (such as the National Science Foundation, The National Institutes of Health, The National Endowment for the Humanities, and other funding agencies).
Domestic Applicants:
- Fall: December 15
International Applicants:
- Fall: December 15
International applicants will not be considered for conditional admission by this program.
4832
NRC Taxon(a) for this program: Linguistics
English Requirements
- PTEMin 60
- IELTSMin 7
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
Tuition and Fee Information for Linguistics (PHD) at The University of Arizona Global
How to Apply for Linguistics (PHD) at The University of Arizona Global
- International applicants to Arizona Online campus, Global Direct campus, or a Global Microcampus should choose the Distance Learner (DL) visa type in their Application Profile.
- International applicants to the Main campus must currently hold a US visa that permits incidental study.
- Please verify your visa eligibility with International Student Services before applying. The application fee is non-refundable and will not be refunded if your visa status is not eligible.
- Applicants must meet all Graduate College minimum admission requirements, including English proficiency.
- Applicants should be prepared to submit copies of their visa documents, additional transcripts, or degree documentation if requested.
- University of Arizona regulations require that all international students on non-immigrant visas carry the University of Arizona student health insurance plan.
United States of America, Tucson