Master's Degree Programme in Clinical Linguistics

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degree programme in Clinical Linguistics (EMCL) is a two-year Master's programme offered jointly by a consortium of the University of Groningen (RUG), Ghent University (UGENT) and the University of Eastern Finland (UEF). In addition, we have the support of 23 associated partners from the academic, R&D, and clinical sector. EMCL is a full-time interdisciplinary and transnational programme, providing integrated training in neurolinguistics, psycholinguistics, and clinical linguistics.

At EMCL, we prepare ambitious students for diverse and rewarding careers through a unique blend of cutting-edge research training and hands-on internships—whether in academia, neurotechnology R&D, or clinical settings. This powerful combination lays the foundation for interdisciplinary excellence in neurolinguistics and clinical linguistics, shaping professionals with both theoretical depth and practical expertise.

Key information

Level of degree: Master's degree
Programme duration: 2 years / 120 ECTS credits
Language of instruction: English

Visit the EMCL website for detailed information about the programme, admission, and applying.

Why study with us?

EMCL is one of the longest-running and most successful European Joint Master Degree Programmes, and it has educated international clinical linguists in Joensuu since 2004.
EMCL graduates go on to thrive in clinical practice, education, and industry—many continuing to doctoral studies and contributing to cutting-edge research and innovation.

Studies

At UEF, the main focus is on speech technology and programming with Python, including both fundamental theory and methods, as well as their application to the assessment of and adaptive solutions for speech impairments. At UGENT, students are familiarized with advanced topics in statistics and psycholinguistics, including bilingualism, dyslexia, and eye tracking. Finally, at RUG, the emphasis is on crosslinguistic studies of language-impaired children and adults, language testing in neurosurgical settings, and the usage of neurotechnology and IT for the diagnosis and treatment of language impairments.

Structure of studies

1st semester: University of Eastern Finland

Language and Languages - A Course on General Linguistics (5 ECTS)
Linguistics Reading Group (3 ECTS)
Empirical Research Methods in Linguistics (5 ECTS)
Introduction to Python Programming for Linguistic Research (3 ECTS)
Introduction to Phonetics and the Praat Tool (2 ECTS)
Statistics and Data Visualisation for Linguistics (5 ECTS)
Introduction to Praat Script Programming for Clinical Linguistic Research (2 ECTS)
Introduction to Developmental and Acquired Speech and Language Problems (5 ECTS)

2nd semester: University of Ghent

Statistics and Research Methods applied to the development and validation of language research tools (7 ECTS)
Bilingualism (4 ECTS)
Reading Acquisition and Dyslexia (4 ECTS)
Computational Models in Psycholinguistics (4 ECTS)
Advances in Psycholinguistics (3 ECTS)
Eye-tracking in Language Research (3 ECTS)
Internship Preparation (5 ECTS)

3rd semester: University of Groningen

Advanced course in Developmental and Acquired Speech and Language Problems (5 ECTS)
Apps and Games in Clinical Linguistics (5 ECTS)
Language Testing during Awake Brain Surgery (5 ECTS)
Neuroimaging and Language (5 ECTS)
Internship (10 ECTS)

4th semester: Various locations

Thesis (30 ECTS)

Please see the EMCL website for more detailed information. The descriptions of courses offered by UEF are available in the UEF study guide.

How to apply?

Admission and application

This programme is offered jointly by a consortium of universities. The University of Groningen coordinates the admission process. For admission criteria and details on the application process, please see the EMCL website.

See the EMCL++ website for admission details