BA in Linguistics at Boston University

Programme overview

The major in Linguistics enables students to explore, at many levels and from a variety of perspectives, how language works. Students of linguistics examine the structure, use, acquisition, and development of the languages of the world. We aim to identify both those elements that are common to all human languages (spoken and signed) and the ways in which languages and dialects can differ from one another.

Faculty: College of Arts & Sciences | Study mode: full-time | Location: Boston, MA, United States

What you will study

For students who entered BU prior to fall 2018, courses taken toward the major in Linguistics cannot also be used for Divisional Studies course units outside the Humanities Division. The major consists of 12 courses: eight in Linguistics (including four basic required courses and four electives) plus four intermediate or advanced language courses including two different foreign languages.

Official programme page

Application information

USD 73,024 a year (2026-27). Full-time undergraduate tuition for 2026/2027, stated as the standard University undergraduate tuition rate; also listed as full-time tuition $73,024 per year on the Student Financials rate page. Tuition only: excludes fees, housing, dining, books and hea Source

First-year entry is September (Fall); Early Decision is binding for September admission. Transfer entry is September or January, and some programmes do not offer January admission.

First-year Regular Decision application and CSS Profile/FAFSA are due January 5; merit scholarship applications are due December 1; the enrollment deposit is due May 1. Early Decision applications are due November 2 (notification December 14); Early Decision 2 applications are due January 5 (notification February 8). Transfer applications are due March 15 for September and November 2 for January.

Apply through the Common Application or the QuestBridge Application. The application fee is $80, paid through the Common Application (fee waivers available). BU is test optional for first-year applicants applying through fall 2028 and spring 2029; international applicants submit TOEFL iBT, IELTS or the Duolingo English Test. SAT/ACT is not required for transfer admission.

Apply through the official page: https://www.bu.edu/admissions/

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