PhD Language Science at University of California, Irvine

Programme overview

The Ph.D. program in Language Science provides interdisciplinary training across a broad range of topics relating to the scientific study of language that spans fields such as linguistics, cognitive science, psychology, computer science, philosophy, logic, neuroscience, speech, hearing, education, and engineering. This integrative approach to the science of language explores interfaces between traditional frameworks, fostering a more complete understanding of the human communication system. Emphasis is placed on modern techniques of theory construction and empirical investigation, and students are prepared for research and teaching careers in academia, industry, and government.

Faculty: School of Social Sciences | Study mode: full-time | Location: Irvine, CA, United States

What you will study

Complete five content-focused courses.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

While undergraduate training in linguistics is desirable, applications are also welcomed from students with backgrounds in other areas, including cognitive science, psychology, computer science, neuroscience, logic, philosophy, mathematics, engineering, hearing, speech, language studies, education, and anthropology. Decisions on admissions are based on official transcripts of all college coursework, a statement of purpose, at least three letters of recommendation, and at least one sample of technical writing. Applicants whose primary language is not English are required to demonstrate proficiency in English for admission consideration. Information about this requirement is available here .

Domestic applicants: USD 13,722 a year (2026-27). Graduate tuition (resident rate) from the standard Graduate/Credential Student Fees schedule for state-supported graduate degree programmes; the page does not list programmes by name, so this is the standard graduate band. Tuition line only; excludes Stud Source

Graduate applications are submitted online through the UCI graduate application portal; the non-refundable application fee is $135 for U.S. citizens and lawful U.S. permanent residents and $155 for all other applicants. Deadlines are set by each programme. GRE is required by some programmes only; TOEFL or IELTS English proficiency is required of graduate applicants unless waived.

Apply through the official page: https://grad.uci.edu/admissions/

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