
Course at a Glance
- PhDDegree level
- 16 termsDuration
- Ottawa (Main Campus), CanadaLocation
- LinguisticsField of study
- bilingualLanguage of instruction
- Ottawa (Main Campus)Campus
- $17,478Fees
- AvailableScholarship
About this programme
Linguistics is a discipline that explores the structure of language, its role in human activity, and its relationship to the biological and psychological human organism. It is considered one of the humanities because it focuses on the relationship between human beings and language, but it is also an exact science because of its systematic explanation of the facts of language and its use of experimental methodology.
Read more
The Department of Linguistics offers graduate programs leading to the degrees of MA and PhD in linguistics. It is possible, through the selection of relevant courses, to specialize in a variety of areas of linguistic research. These include the following: theoretical linguistics (phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics), first and second language acquisition, psycholinguistics, neurolinguistics and sociolinguistics. Detailed information about the programs, for instance, the research areas of professors, course descriptions, and student advising arrangements is provided in the department's student handbook. The programs are governed by the academic regulations in effect for graduate studies.
Is this course right for you?
Our counsellors check your profile against this programme's entry criteria and tell you where you stand — before you pay anything.
What we look at
- Your subject background and grades
- Your English score, or how to get one
- Budget, including living costs
University & programme
- Listed from the catalogueNot yet staff-verified — ask us to confirm the details.
- English requirementIELTS Overall 6.5
- Study modeFull-time
Admissions checklist
Entry requirements
Minimum requirements: B+ in an M.A. in Linguistics or the equivalent Application Fee: CA$125.00 (non-refundable) Recommendation letter(s): 2 Transcript(s): 1 Required document(s): Resume (must include chronological academic history) For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the specific requirements webpage. The MA in Linguistics (or the equivalent) is required for admission to the doctoral program. Language Requirements Candidates must have an adequate knowledge of English. Most of the courses are offered in English. Under the regulations of the University of Ottawa, examinations and assignments may be written in French or in English. Transfer from Master’s to PhD Students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Linguistics at the University of Ottawa may, exceptionally, be allowed to transfer to the doctoral program without completing the master’s. To take advantage of this option, they must: Complete 3 compulsory courses (LIN 5315, LIN 5317 and LIN 5318) and an optional course in the master’s program with a minimum grade of A- or better in each; Provide letters in support of the fast-track from professors in two of the courses mentioned above; Provide a letter of recommendation from the Gra Published language requirement: English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) · English: IELTS 6.5; TOEFL iBT 84 · English test waiver: French Program: DALF C1, C2/ TCF B2 (note globale)/TEF B2 (Note globale) (Internet-based) English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) Candidates must have an adequate knowledge of English. Most of the courses are offered in English. Under the regulations of the University of Ottawa, examinations and assignments may be written in French or in English. · Application fee: CAD 125.00
The usual set for this level. Your counsellor confirms the exact list for this university.
- Academic transcripts
- English test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose (optional)
- Recommendation letters (optional)
Cost & scholarships
- Tuition$17,478 CAD / year≈ $12,851 / year
- Living costsVary by city — see the destination guide.
- ScholarshipsInternational Doctoral Scholarship valued at CAD 45,000 over five years for international PhD students (conditions changed for students who began a PhD in May 2023 or later). Source: uOttawa Tuition fees - International students page.
Application timeline
Typical timings. Deadlines differ per university and intake.
- 1Prepare documents1–2 weeks
- 2Submit application1–3 weeks
- 3Receive offer letter2–6 weeks
- 4Apply for visa4–8 weeks
Application deadline: Fall: December 1 (international applicants). Winter: May 1 (international applicants).
Visa & support journey
- Offer letterFrom the university
- Visa guidanceExpert support
- Pre-departureAccommodation & travel
- Ongoing supportEven after you arrive
Student stories
Real students. Real results.
- Average rating
- 4.9
- Google reviews
- 360+
- Rated five stars
- 95%
Average rating
Google reviews
Rated five stars
“I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent assistance provided during my student visa process. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive at every stage, from document preparation to submission guidance. Their clear communication and professional approach made the process much easier and more efficient.”
1 / 8
Nihad K, 5 out of 5 stars
Every review below is a real Google review — see all of them
Frequently asked questions
How much does Doctorate in Philosophy Linguistics cost?
CAD 17,478 / year.
What English score does it need?
IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.
How long is it?
16 terms, as listed by the university.
What are the entry requirements?
Minimum requirements: B+ in an M.A. in Linguistics or the equivalent Application Fee: CA$125.00 (non-refundable) Recommendation letter(s): 2 Transcript(s): 1 Required document(s): Resume (must include chronological academic history) For the most accurate and up to date information on application deadlines, language tests and other admission requirements, please visit the specific requirements webpage. The MA in Linguistics (or the equivalent) is required for admission to the doctoral program. Language Requirements Candidates must have an adequate knowledge of English. Most of the courses are offered in English. Under the regulations of the University of Ottawa, examinations and assignments may be written in French or in English. Transfer from Master’s to PhD Students enrolled in the Master of Arts in Linguistics at the University of Ottawa may, exceptionally, be allowed to transfer to the doctoral program without completing the master’s. To take advantage of this option, they must: Complete 3 compulsory courses (LIN 5315, LIN 5317 and LIN 5318) and an optional course in the master’s program with a minimum grade of A- or better in each; Provide letters in support of the fast-track from professors in two of the courses mentioned above; Provide a letter of recommendation from the Gra Published language requirement: English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) · English: IELTS 6.5; TOEFL iBT 84 · English test waiver: French Program: DALF C1, C2/ TCF B2 (note globale)/TEF B2 (Note globale) (Internet-based) English Program: TOEFL 84/New TOEFL 4, 24 (Writing); 20 (Individual)/IELTS 6.5, 6.5 (Writing); 6 (Individual) (Internet-based) Candidates must have an adequate knowledge of English. Most of the courses are offered in English. Under the regulations of the University of Ottawa, examinations and assignments may be written in French or in English. · Application fee: CAD 125.00
Is there a scholarship?
International Doctoral Scholarship valued at CAD 45,000 over five years for international PhD students (conditions changed for students who began a PhD in May 2023 or later). Source: uOttawa Tuition fees - International students page.
Ready to apply?
Get expert guidance and take the first step towards your global education.
Free counselling · No application fee to enquire · Reply within 24h