Universiteit Leiden

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Linguistics (specialisation) (MA)

Theoretical Approaches to Linguistic Diversity

Describing a new language for the first time is an exciting and challenging intellectual experience.

It is best done against a solid background in linguistic typology, as that helps us to recognize patterns in the language that are common versus those that are rare or unique among the world’s languages. In addition, theories of phonetics, phonology, morphology or syntax enable us to formulate research questions that can lead to a more detailed understanding and more insightful analysis of primary data in those various subfields. At the same time, the primary data can be used to modify or refine typological categorizations and theoretical models. The theme “Theoretical approaches to Linguistic Diversity” provides you tools to combine the study of primary data with typology and theory.

Theme coordinator: Prof. dr. Marian Klamer

Detailed programme

For a detailed programma, see the online study guide.

Please note that the Prospectus shows a provisional programme and list of courses.