Master’s in Linguistics – Specialization in Signs, Discourse and Society (SDS)

Overview

 

The Master’s in Linguistics has two specializations : Sociolinguistics and Discourse Analysis, which is a research-based program, and Expertise in Semiotics and Communication (ESC) which is an applied program. Both specialties have the same courses in M1 and branch off in M2.

The Sociolinguistics and Discourse Analysis specialization is open to all students interested in the role of language – in the broadest sense, including iconic signs – in social dynamics.

It is open not only to holders of a Bachelor’s in Linguistics but also to students of humanities and social sciences (sociology, history, anthropology, political sciences), literature, languages, communication and to students from other fields who hold language in high esteem.

Objectives

 

Students of the Master’s in Linguistics will learn about the study of how language is used in society, from the sociolinguistic, discursive and semiotic points of view. They will also learn about the tools used in general linguistics. Discourse will be examined in its complexity, both as drivers and producers of social and professional practices, and will be analyzed in a range of particular contexts of production (societies, cities, institutions, businesses, verbal communication, etc.). Language is more than an instrument of communication. It will be examined in its social, symbolic and pragmatic dimensions and we will be observing its dynamics with other social practices in a wide variety of social spaces (families, institutions, the workplace, schools, politics, the media, etc.).

Pre-requisites:

Pre-requisites to be admitted to M1 :

  •  Bachelor’s degree or equivalent

 

Pre-requisites to be admitted to M2 :

  • M1 in Linguistics (from another French university)

 

Admission criteria for M1 :

  • application file + interview

 

Admission criteria for M2 :

  • Automatic for holders of the M1 in SDS.
  • For students who did not do the M1 in SDS: application file + interview

 

Application period for the 2026-2027 academic year:  M2: from April 13 to June 1, 2026

 

Contacts :