Studying Linguistics in Australia

Introduction to studying a linguistics degree

Studying linguistics in Australia as an international student offers a comprehensive exploration of language and its various aspects. Typically spanning three years for a bachelor's degree, the program delves into core modules such as phonetics, syntax, semantics, and sociolinguistics, providing students with a well-rounded understanding of language structure, evolution, and usage.

Potential employers include government agencies, language technology firms, educational institutions, publishing houses, and international organizations. The versatility of a linguistics degree equips graduates with skills applicable to roles such as language consultant, speech pathologist, translator, editor, or even positions in artificial intelligence and technology companies. The demand for linguistic expertise continues to grow, with graduates often finding rewarding careers in fields like education, research, language technology, and cross-cultural communication.

Types of Linguistics Degrees in Australia

Diploma in Linguistics

The diploma in linguistics prepares students for the language-learning journey, offering rigorous investigation into various linguistic phenomena, including grammar, phonology, phonetics, and semantics. During the program, you will be taught how to communicate proficiently and confidently in principal-studied languages and identify the structure and the uses of the principal language studied. 

You will also learn to recognise the importance of intercultural communication. After completing a diploma in linguistics, you can find work in international relations, diploma, trade, business, language teaching, tourism, and many other fields. 

• Course duration: one year
• Course fees: $10,000 - $30,000
• Entry requirements: Australian Year 12 or equivalent with English Language Proficiency Test

Bachelor’s of Linguistics

The Bachelor’s in Linguistics is an undergraduate program that studies human communication. During the course, you will learn about the structure and history of languages while examining how communication skills are acquired and developed. You will also gain an understanding of linguistics, exploring the sound systems used during communication, how sentences are structured, and the ways we use language and interpret meaning, followed by a capstone project. After graduation, you can opt for careers as a linguist, language translator, or cultural diversity manager. 

• Course duration: two years
• Course fees: $32,600
• Entry requirements: All Indian Secondary School Certificate - 75% with English Language Proficiency Test qualification. 

Master’s of Linguistics

The master’s of linguistics is a two-year postgraduate degree that aims to deepen your knowledge of the structure and how to implement it. While studying linguistics in Australia, you will also develop an understanding of intercultural communication in diverse professional and educational contexts. The postgraduate program brings a research component to your existing knowledge so that you can graduate with a competitive edge in language teaching, language assessment, and language program evaluation. 

On graduation, you can pursue a career in professional fields, such as public service, language assessment and training institutes, and global organisations like the Australian Council for Educational Research, the Indonesian Air Force, and more. 

• Course duration: two years
• Course fees: $41,024
• Entry requirements: bachelor’s degree in relevant field and IELTS/TOEFL/PTE scores

Doctorate of Linguistics

The Ph.D. in linguistics is a research-based degree designed with a strong interest in the scientific study of language. During the course program, you will explore various subjects and topics related to linguistics, including syntax, phonology, semantics, and discourse analytics. You will also gain a deep understanding of theories, methods, and tools used by linguistics to study language and its use in different contexts. 

In addition, during the coursework, you will also conduct research in linguistics, culminating in a thesis or dissertation. This research may involve fieldwork, data collection, and the development of new theories and methodologies. After completing the course, you can work in academic departments, research institutions, government organisations, or research languages.  

• Course duration: three years
• Course fees: $42,000
• Entry requirements: master’s in relevant field and English language proficiency test

Scholarships for Studying Linguistics in Australia

Australian universities offer scholarships to international students who need financial support in their education. Here are some of the global scholarships that are delivered to international students. 

Jobs and Careers

Linguistics graduates can opt for many interesting and diverse career paths. Many linguists graduates work in academics, allied health science, government, and computer science. Some linguists also work in language revitalisation, which means working with languages with few or no speakers to reverse their decline with the specific advantage of being able to point to skills in communication, problem-solving, and analytical thinking skills. Some popular careers include lexicographer, translator, and technical writer. 

Salary

The average salary of a linguist salary in Australia is $105,585 annually. For entry-level positions, the average salary starts at $98,865 annually. On the other hand, the most experienced workers with more than eight years of experience earn up to $122,220 annually. However, the pay scale depends on the skills, experience, and qualifications. 

Best Universities for Linguistics in Australia 

To learn more about the linguistics universities in Australia, find details on the top ranking Linguistics programs in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024 below:

Study Linguistics in Australia

If you want to learn more about studying for a linguistics degree at an Australian university, arrange a free consultation with SI-Australia today.

FAQ

What type of linguistics courses are available in Australia?

Linguistic courses are available at diploma, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. Students can take the course in different languages or specialisations. 

What career opportunities are available for linguistics graduates in Australia?

Linguistics graduates can opt for many interesting and diverse career paths. Many linguists work in academics, allied health science, government, and computer science. Some popular careers include linguist, lexicographer, and translator.

How long does it take to complete a linguistics degree in Australia?

The course duration for a bachelor’s degree is three years, and the postgraduate is two years. However, the program depends on credits and specialisations.