Sociolinguistics

The nexus between people and language is where most sociolinguistic research takes place. At the University of Liverpool, research in sociolinguistics focuses on the relationship between society and language, drawing on the expertise of colleagues in modern languages. With specialists exploring sociolinguistic issues in the Francophone, Hispanophone, Lusophone and Italophone world, as well as in North Africa and the Middle East, sociolinguistics research at the University of Liverpool enables you to explore a range of national and transnational perspectives on research into language and society. We’re home to a critical mass of researchers examining the linguistic landscape, asking questions around language in the public space, tackling themes of migration studies, and exploring regional and minority languages in France, Italy and the Middle East. Our work is set against a context of language policy, language ideologies and linguistic legitimacy. We welcome research proposals that are in areas matching the expertise of our researchers. Potential themes of your research could include: You’re also welcome to suggest your own theme for a potential research project. Some current and recent PhD topics include: (Research Excellence Framework, 2021) (Research Excellence Framework, 2021)

IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 TOEFL iBT: If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. Pearson PTE Academic: 61 overall, with no component below 59 Your most recent IELTS score: Pre-sessional English course length 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5: 6 weeks 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0: 10 weeks 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0: 12 weeks 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0: 20 weeks 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5: 30 weeks 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0: 40 weeks

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0

International students: Full-time place, per year - £25,350; Part-time: £12,650

UK students: Full-time place, per year - £5,238; Part-time: £2,619

UK/Home: Full-time place, per year - £5,238; Part-time: £2,619

International: Full-time place, per year - £25,350; Part-time: £12,650

Year round

Rolling admissions - check project listing

• Liverpool, United Kingdom