MSc in Evolutionary Language Science
Explore the origins, evolution, and cognitive foundations of human and nonhuman communication through interdisciplinary research.
Best for:Best for students with a strong background in linguistics, cognitive science, neuroscience, or related fields who are passionate about interdisciplinary research on language evolution, communication, and AI.
Overview
This Master of Science programme at Universität Zürich offers a multidisciplinary approach to Evolutionary Language Science, blending insights from linguistics, cognitive science, neuroscience, anthropology, and AI. Students investigate core questions such as how languages emerge and change, how communication systems function across species, and how neurotechnology and AI impact language acquisition and restoration. The curriculum integrates empirical research methods, statistical analysis, and interdisciplinary project work, preparing graduates for careers in academia, research, or applied fields like clinical linguistics and AI-driven communication studies. The programme emphasizes hands-on research, enabling students to design and execute their own interdisciplinary projects under faculty supervision.
What you'll do
- Conduct interdisciplinary research projects addressing core questions in Evolutionary Language Science.
- Develop and apply empirical research methods, including statistical analysis and experimental design.
- Explore the cognitive and neural mechanisms underlying human and nonhuman communication.
- Investigate the impact of AI and neurotechnology on language acquisition and restoration.
- Design and present an independent research project integrating insights from multiple disciplines.
- Collaborate with faculty and peers to advance interdisciplinary knowledge in language evolution.
Requirements
Degree required: Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics, Cognitive Science, Psychology, Neuroscience, Anthropology, or a related field.
Degree offered: Master of Science (MSc) in Evolutionary Language Science
Language: English; proficiency sufficient for academic research and instruction
Instruction: English
- Strong foundation in research methods and statistical analysis
- Proficiency in empirical research techniques
- Basic knowledge of cognitive science or neuroscience principles
- Ability to work in interdisciplinary teams
- Familiarity with computational tools or AI-related concepts (a plus but not mandatory)
- No specific nationality restrictions
- Prior degree must be from a recognized institution
- No age restrictions
- No prior experience caps
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
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- Intake
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- Duration
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- Teaching language
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- Taught / research mode
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- Study mode
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- Campus
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- Prerequisites
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- Tuition
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How to apply
Applicants must submit their application through the official Universität Zürich portal. Required documents typically include a CV, a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and a research proposal outlining their interdisciplinary research interests. Additional documents may be requested based on individual circumstances.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of motivation
- Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s degree)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Research proposal (interdisciplinary focus)
- Reference letters (if required)
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