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Linguistik: Kognition und Kommunikation / Linguistics: Cognition and Communication (Master of Arts)

Program: Linguistik: Kognition und Kommunikation / Linguistics: Cognition and Communication
Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
Program length: 2 years / 4 semesters (120 ECTS points)
Start: winter and summer semester

German Linguistics examines the German language – namely utilizing the findings and methods of modern international speech science. The characteristics of German are analyzed on a structural (syntax, semantics, phonology, morphology) and functional (pragmatics) level. Furthermore, cognitive, social and historical aspects of German play an important role in this program. All of these issues are handled under the light of applicability in  broad range of professional fields.

The four-semester Master program in Linguistik: Kognition und Kommunikation / Linguistics: Cognition and Communication aims to connect theoretical and practical knowledge. The general objective is to solve a series of problems through scientific analysis. Knowledge previously acquired in a Bachelor program is expanded and supplemented in this program.

Major topics

The profile of the Master program is particularly aligned with the research focus and activities established at Marburg: as a result, the program offers the option to specialize in the fields of Cognitive linguistic modeling and Dynamic linguistic analysis of varieties of German. This specializing is integrated in the two research focal points of the participating institutes, Experimental, clinical and cognitivie neurosciences and cultural dynamics.

Beyond this research-based profiling, the program at Marburg allows for studying the subject in its entire breadth. Historically, the profile of German Linguistics encompasses all stages of language, from the Late Middle Ages to the present, as well as focusing on various systematic areas of historical linguistic and language use research.

Objectives

With respect to the direct entry into professional life, the experiences of the past have shown that linguistically well-trained graduates of German studies programs have excellent opportunities on the labor market. For the speech sciences, it is noted that there are identifiable fields of application outside of academia, though some are only just coming into being. These include, for example:

  • Computer linguistics, language technology
  • Language and communications consulting
  • Language documentation, teaching foreign languages
  • Publishing, journalism, media, PR sector
  • Differentiated education sector

The program aims to impart competencies in the cited fields of application, without losing sight of the orientation toward theoretical and academic competencies appropriate to the Master's degree. As a result of its practical research orientation, the program offers talented students the ideal preparation for a Doctorate program.

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