Linguistics (by thesis and coursework) Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

Take your PhD with one of the best Linguistics teams in the world. We are ranked 2nd in the world for Linguistics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026.

This PhD programme understands applied linguistics as research into language with a relevance to real-world issues and proposals are accepted in a wide range of topics. By combining your PhD studies with a set of taught modules, this programme is designed to broaden your knowledge of relevant research and research methodologies. Many of our students are professionals who are balancing PhD study with a full-time career, and this contributes to the rich and stimulating academic environment this programme offers.

The programme is designed for you to simultaneously complete your coursework and develop your thesis. In your first year you will complete compulsory modules in research methodology and in applied linguistics that are taught online. In addition, you have the opportunity to take modules from Linguistics master's programmes and the Research Training Programme that is available to doctoral students in the Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Science.

One of the strengths of this programme is the flexibility it allows in pursuing your PhD – you have the choice to either study on campus in Lancaster, or from home. You may study full-time or part-time but have the option to switch at any point during your studies. The compulsory modules are taught online, while for other modules there are both on-campus and online learning options.

Regardless whether you study in Lancaster or from home, you must attend two intensive residentials at Lancaster University in the first two years of your studies. During this time you will have the opportunity to complete a portion of the coursework, participate in a graduate student conference, and engage in a range of professional and academic development activities such as sessions on academic writing, presentation skills, and career development as well as attend workshops offered by the University library.

What you need to know

* Option to study full time (36 months) or part time (60 months)

* Study on campus in Lancaster or elsewhere at your convenience

* 4 compulsory taught modules – 2 in research methods and 2 in applied linguistics

* Opportunity to take additional modules from our master's programmes

* 2 intensive residentials at Lancaster