Course-based MA in general linguistics

Complete 35 units of coursework

MA Coursework students must take all of:

  • Ling 880 Advanced Linguistic Research for Professional Development (3) – second year.
  • Ling 890 Graduate Seminar I (1) – must complete in first year.
  • Ling 891 Graduate Seminar II (1) – must complete in first year.
  • Ten additional graduate courses (30). Only two of these ten courses should be taken outside the linguistics department. *Consultation with supervisor recommended.

For a list of current linguistics graduate courses, visit our courses page.  

Transfering to MA Project or MA Thesis stream

In consultation with their supervisor, course-based MA students wishing to transfer into the MA Project or MA Thesis stream must sign an Approval of Supervisory Committee form. 

Typical MA Coursework Academic Schedule

Program Completion Time Limit

Program Completion Time Limit / Extension Policy Download --> [pdf ]

  • Graduate students in the Department of Linguistics are expected to complete their degrees within the required time limits as outlined in the SFU Graduate General Regulations:  
    • MA students have a maximum of 9 semesters to complete their program
    • Parental leave, medical/compassionate leave, academic break do not count towards time limit
    • Personal leave will count towards the time limit
    • Extensions will only be granted under extenuating circumstances, and must be supported by the student’s senior supervisor, and approved by the Linguistics Graduate Studies Committee and Dean of Graduate Studies.