
The Master's degree programme 'Language in Motion' has been developed from the previous programme 'Theoretical Linguistics: Dynamics and Variation' and offers students a stronger empirical-practical approach to language and linguistics. Students on the programme receive practical and theoretical guidance that introduces them to the latest research work in theoretical linguistics. In the first part of the programme students will become acquainted with modern theories and concepts in core areas of linguistics, establishing the foundations on which students subsequently build in their area of specialization. By undertaking experimental projects, students acquire the skills needed to independently design and implement empirical studies. Students also have the option of attending a linguistics summer school where they have the opportunity to establish networks and build contacts with the scientific community at an early stage of their career.
In terms of the curriculum, the programme in Saarbrücken is concerned with linguistic processes such as first-language acquisition, the production and processing of linguistic utterances in a specific context (utterance situation) and with theoretical approaches to modelling dynamic processes. Further topics addressed include the historical development of language, the differences and similarities of dialects within a larger language area and the dependence of grammatical phenomena on text type, register or channel of communication.
The Master's programme is designed to be completed in four semesters of full-time study or seven semesters of part-time study. Students are required to earn coursework and examination credits totalling 120 ECTS credits, of which 28 credits are awarded for the Master's thesis.
- Module AT: Advanced Topics in Theoretical Linguistics
- Module FE: Further Explorations in Theoretical Linguistics
- Module AM: Advanced Methods in Theoretical Linguistics
- Module DV: Language, Dynamics and Variation
- Module GM: Graduation Module
Further details can be found in the study regulations and the module catalogue.
Regulations
- Study regulations
- Examination regulations
- Subject-specific provisions
- Decision on the urgent competence decision of 22.06.2023 (language certificate)
- Discontinued regulations
Programme content
(Regulations available in German only.)
| Standard period of study | 4 semesters for full-time students Part-time studies are possible |
| Language of instruction | German and English |
| German language requirements | TestDaF: 4, DSH: 2, Goethe: C2 |
| English language requirements | e. g. CAE, IELTS Academic: 6.5, TOEFL: 90 |
| Tuition fees | Not applicable |
| Semester fee | See current fee structure |
Central Student Advisory Service
Saarbrücken Campus
Building A4 4, Ground floor
Phone: +49 681 302-3513
studienberatung(at)uni-saarland.de
www.uni-saarland.de/studienberatung
Central Student Advisory Service
Saarbrücken Campus
Building A4 4, Ground floor
Phone: +49 681 302-3513
studienberatung(at)uni-saarland.de
Central Student Advisory Service

Accredited study programmes
Saarland University was one of the first universities in Germany to achieve Quality Assurance Accreditation and has held the Accreditation Council's official quality mark continuously since 2012.
Quality management