Ziggyfinish

I would suggest looking up your favourite scholars on Comic Books, (or if you don't know any yet, researching prominent scholars who work on comic books). Find where they are working, which departments, and applying to those. I am guessing that you will most likely find them within English departments or maybe a few comparative literature departments. Most English departments these days offer a course or two in Comic books (or at least the four universities I've been to have) so that is probably your best bet. English and Comparative Literature departments are also likely to give you good critical theory skills that have broad applications. Look especially at departments that do cultural studies as well (i.e. McGill University). They're usually prepared to do literary analysis on larger variety of mediums including film, comics, etc., and they're also more likely to be up to date and not exclusively devoted to classics and canonical works.

Concordia University does not have a Masters program in Linguistics, although University of Montréal and UQAM do, however, those programs would be offered in French.

McGill's Linguistics graduate program has a lot of international students in it (at the moment at least), in fact I think they prefer to have a strong mix of international and domestic students. And I believe it is a two year program. (I believe U of T also offers a 1 and 2 year MA). Also its common in Canada for many of the smaller or less well known schools to offer really good funding options to attract students (everyone here just wants to live in Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal). These schools usually have small programs of very little to no renown, BUT, at the MA level this may not be a problem if you're looking to get some research experience. Because there are few teachers and few students you could expect to get a lot of attention and individual support, and find a tight community of professors, who you'll get to know really fast at the pub. You could also expect to get a lot of teaching opportunities or TA/RAships.

Hey Garyon, if you don't mind my asking, how was your profile a bit un-orthodox and how did your "fit" work out? I ask because I have a very unorthodox profile and an even more unusual set of research interests and I am struggling to find a way to find a "fit." Hey Drewling, Preserving languages and documenting them before they vanish is a big field right now and if this is your interest I don't think you'll have too much trouble finding a good "fit" at any number of faculties. I agree with Fuzzylogician that you should broaden the number of schools you apply to. I'm not sure about Stoney Brook but I feel like you can find a closer fit to your interests if you cast a wider net. Best of luck!

Thanks beccamayworth! That helps a lot!

How are these courses structured? How big are the classes? Lecture hall or seminar style? Are these courses intended for undergrad or grad students or both?

One word. Canada. Check out McGill, University of Toronto, and University of British Columbia, I believe all three of these schools will have some of what you're looking for. (Though maybe check out other Canadian schools too; Queens, Victoria, Ottawa, McMaster, I'm less familiar with these) Canadian schools still offer programs similar in scope as American schools but still make a division between MA and PhDs, and usually it is easy to transfer from a Canadian school to an American school than transferring from a European school (this is not a rule, but something to consider). Also because of the nature of Quebec's language policies, there is a lot of interest in Canada with regards to the various dialects of French and English, and the sociolinguistics of class divisions especially in Quebec. Im pretty sure there is a specialist at McGill on English dialects. UBC seems more interested in First Nations' languages, but they may also have what you're looking for. Also at least University of Toronto and McGill will offer funding even at the MA level (UBC offers very little but encourages paid TAships). It wont be as much as American PhD programs, but American MAs in Linguistics rarely give funding. Also some Canadian schools will have 1 year MAs. One problem with a 1 year MA is that you will just be beginning your studies when the next application period roles around in the fall. You won't yet have any real grades or strong relationships with your professors for applying to PhD programs. So you might want to look at 2 year programs which will give you more research experience. On the UK side of things Edinburgh has one of the best linguistics departments and their program specifically includes English language linguistics, so they probably do some of what your interested in. Hope that helps.

By the numbers that's a pretty good looking profile! I wouldn't worry about the GRE scores, 160 should get you past any cut-offs. Where, may I ask, are you looking for funding for the Linguistics Summer Institute? I'd love to go, but I have no idea where to find funding for a summer program.

Thanks for posting this! I hadn't heard of this program. $1750 sounds like a pretty good deal. Especially if it gives students the opportunity to study under the likes of such a wide list of teachers, whom they usually wouldn't have the chance to come across. Has anyone who has done the program speak to the quality of the program, the size of the classes, what kind of hours are required, and/or who the advanced courses are intended for?

I've heard that official GREs take up to six weeks to be received. Some programs [a minority] will accept unofficial scores at the time of their deadline, and some programs will expect scores within a certain time frame after their deadline. For example John Hopkins has a deadline of January 1st and expects GRE scores within two weeks. Many schools will advise completing the GRE before November in order to receive them on time.

Hey Beanio, If you're just making this decision now to apply for the 2015/2016 year, then I suggests getting straight to work. Most of the deadlines will be between December 1st and 15th, so you've got your work cut out for you for the next two months. You're gonna want to apply to more than one program (maybe 8-10) in order to best improve your chances of getting accepted. This is both time consuming and expensive You're going to have to figure out which programs you want to apply to. Finding a good program with a good "fit" is the most important. This is a really time consuming practice since you need to look very carefully at the department page of each program you're interested in (as well as many you've never heard of). You need to figure out which area of linguistics you want to work in (preferably down to a sub-discipline). You need to look very closely at what each faculty member is working on (i.e. read a few of the articles of the ones who interest you). You need to look at funding options, deadlines, application requirements, etc. Many departments will require you to show competency in a foreign language of scholarship (by the end of the second year), some may require two languages, some may even require two languages of scholarship plus a non-indo-european language. If you think that will be a problem for you then you probably shouldn't apply to that university (personally I love languages but I'm a pretty slow learner when it comes to languages acquisition). You're going to need to write the general GRE if you intend to apply to programs in the states (preferably before November!). If you've already written it then that's great! but if you haven't written it within the last 5 years then you're going to have to do it again. And you're going to need reference letters, this might be a bit difficult for you since you've been out of school so long, but it is also imperative that you find your references immediately since you should ideally give them 6-8 weeks notice (or more) that you would like references from them. Then you're going to need to write a statement of purpose/letter of intent, maybe even a research proposal. You should talk to your references about this (and show them your drafts). There are a lot of good forums on gradcafe that can give better advice on each of these topics and more. Sorry if this is all stuff you already knew. Its a lot of work so I just hope you're prepared for that. However, also remember that most programs won't mind that you've been out of school for so long since it will indicate maturity in your decision to pursue academia. Many applicants apply right out of undergrad because they've never known anything else. Hope that helps. Best of luck!

Thanks funchaku. I have taken a look at MIT's Brain and Cognitive Sciences, as well as other programs in those interdisciplinary field (I will take a second gander though). For better or for worse, the core of my project is definitely rooted in Linguistics, which is why I'm looking for a strong linguistics department from which I can branch out into Computational Linguistics, Psycholinguistics, and Anthropology (cultural evolution). The core of my research is in diachronic linguistics, very theory heavy. Computational linguistics provides much of the experimental tools I need to actually do some of my research, while many of the key voices in my field are based in Psychology or Anthropology. Its a tall order, I know. Worse my background in programming is pretty weak. I'm studying it independently right now and possibly auditing a Comp Ling grad course this spring, but in the meantime I'm looking for a program that offers introductory courses in Comp Ling in first year. Fortunately one of the programs I've already been accepted to at Edinburgh offers this, though no funding. So worse case scenario I complete a MSc. in Scotland and then return with the requisite background (and a little extra debt) and reapply.

YES! If you are at all interested in American schools then register for the GRE, sooner rather than later. Most American programs require them, and most programs that require them also expect to have your test scores by the application deadline (usually Dec 1st - 15th) Since it can take as long as 6 weeks for your test scores to be sent to the school it is usually best to write the test before November 1st (though some schools will accept unofficial scores initially). This may be a problem for you, since you wont have much time to study for them. Moreover, as an international student (depending on your command of English) you may have trouble with the verbal component of the test.

Thanks beccamayworth. I definitely was not trying to trivialize the UC Merced's program. My impression was that the program was fresh and exciting and the professors all had ample publishing credits to their name. I would encourage others to consider it if it seems like a good fit.

I don't know how you find the time for so many great post, but your advice is very much appreciated! Thank you for you very helpful response.

That is a fair point. But whenever I check out schools I always ask myself "Could I see myself working here for 5+ years? Does the University have everything I need to do my work?" When I look at UC Merced I see a department with some interest in Language evolution, but not necessarily quite the breed of language evolution I am looking for (I admit that might be being picky). But I also see a very new university with very little, shall I say, street cred, that is located literally in the middle of the desert (I am very much a northerner). Moreover, my work requires access to a dance community, and a large city can offer that even when the university cannot. Furthermore, larger universities tend to have a breadth of fields and programs that would allow me to find POIs outside of the linguistic department that could comment on my work Surprisingly many of the best minds working on language evolution aren't in Linguistic departments at all but in Anthropology, Experimental Psychology, or Computer Science departments. All in all I think selecting grad schools is one place where pickiness is essential for finding the right "fit," and I'd rather wait a year to re-apply, conduct independent research, or take a masters than begin a program I know I'd be unhappy in. But thanks Chiki! Your comment actually helped me consolidate my thoughts on what exactly I'm looking for in a program.

I doubt it would be a kiss of death. The fact that you're returning to the same program and are continuing your thesis looks fine. So you had to take some time off, no big deal. Shit happens. It might be worthy mentioning you took some time off, but I wouldn't bother spending a paragraph or anything in your SOP accounting for it. If you had dropped out and then continued in a different program/institution that might look pretty bad, since the adcomms want to see that the candidate can finish a PhD. But you returned so clearly you're serious about your work.

Thanks beccamayworth. I checked out the UC Merced's department. They do a bit of language evolution but they're a pretty isolated campus and I prefer big city universities where I can establish networks with those in dance and the arts. Thanks Robertpt, that is a very good point and something I have been considering. I understand that many schools are looking for people who will become "leaders in their field." So I guess part of my strategy in my SOP is to not only convince them of the seriousness of my proposal, but also to demonstrate that by opening up a new subfield I would be a defacto leader of it. Then I cross my fingers and hope that, that excites someone on the panel. Does that sound like a good strategy or should I instead try to stress my interest in adjacent fields (language evolution & computational linguistics) and then introduce my real proposal once I've been admitted?

Hi fuzzylogician I have a very keen interest in language evolution and it is really central to my current research project. However, sometime language evolution seems to be taken for a byword for the origin of language and/or biolinguistics, which are not really my field of interest. Worse, I get the impression that within the linguistic community the origin of language is often a topic viewed with a bit of derision or even dismissed as an unscientific or impossible field. (case in point the 1866 Linguistic Society of Paris ban on debates about the origin of language) Since my interest in language evolution is with the view of language itself as a complex adaptive system, should I try to distance myself from these other fields by clarifying my interest? Its not that I'm entirely disinterest in these other fields, just that they don't bear directly on my line of questioning. Would this be a scenario where its worth mentioning things that I'm not interested in? p.s. I love the depth with which you've responded to Chiki's post. Thank you

Haha nice tangent. I'm also a bit of a hockey fan + English major. Though I will say that in my experience as a Montrealer (Go Habs Go!) that the Literary sport fan is not such a rare bird (I've known quite a few). At least in Montreal for sure you would find many an Lit Major hockey fan.

Hey thepriorwalter, (love the name) Its hard to really offer advice without a least a little more context on what your niche is. Although I'm very familiar with the situation. I am trying to transition from English Lit and Classics into Linguistics. Problem is that my specific project is in a field that doesn't even exist! If my field did exist it would be somewhere between Linguistics (diachronic & phonology), philosophy(language and cog sci), anthropology (cultural evolution), and performance. I've selected Linguistics(in addition to more than a passing interest) in large part because it is the only field that has some of the tools needed to apply for this project. But finding a program, let alone persons of interest, that could fit with my work is proving quite difficult. Therefore I'm very aware that when writing my SOP I'm really going to have to sell my project/niche to the various departments I apply to. I am going to have to convince them that this really strange project of mine will have significant through lines for their own field(s). I think selling it is really what you have to do. Particularly in how it connects to subjects like "19th-century British Lit," even if it can't be neatly nested. Show the web of how its relates, rather than situating taxonomically within the traditional sub-disciplines. That said, in English Lit I imagine that most topics that aren't specific to a historical period/place can usually be subsumed somewhere in critical theory, rhetoric, or poetics. You can always use the language of 'intersections' in your SOP if your work, like mine, only really fits in some strange interdisciplinary space. But if your current institution really is the best place for what you're specialization then it hardly seems wise to consider leaving just to get out there. Have you considered exchanges or opportunities to travel and do research elsewhere for a year?

Hi JessePinkman, I think this needs some work. Really you should be showing it to your professors and reference writers to get a good critique, but I'll make a few suggestion. First, consider that the adcomms have a lot of these to read, don't waste their time with unnecessary details. Get to the point. Talk naturally. Don't try to impress them with your vocabulary. "what really made me choose Civil Engineering. [is that] I wanted to follow in the footsteps of my father!" is more to the point and endearing than your entire first paragraph. Most of the writing is pretty awkward. "I count my interest and career decision as most fortunate. . ." "USA is renowned for skill at executing huge and complex projects in every field from space to civil engineering, from putting a man on the Moon to building the Empire State Building, the Hoover Dam and the Panama Canal." The adcomms don't need to hear you laud a list American engineering accomplishments, especially such old ones as these. In fact they're probably more interested in why their specific program is of interest to you beyond the fact that its American. Also, "USA" looks and sounds awkward. "After considerable research on the Internet through websites of several universities,"- these sort of statements are redundant, the adcomms will assume you've done your research into their program. "In India, in particular, the paucity of high quality infrastructure is proving a hurdle for economic growth and the Government’s efforts for it are proving less than effective even at great cost on account of lack of professional management at every level of project planning and implementation." - Too long. Confusing syntax. Too many 'it' pronouns. Don't make grand, unsubstantiated, statements, it makes you look bad, especially when you're broadly criticizing your own government. Try something like this: "In India more high quality infrastructure is needed to keep up with the economic growth. This growth requires professional management at all levels of project planning to fill this demand. It is a very exciting time to be a Civil Engineer in India, which is why I hope to make a contribution by returning with a professional degree in Construction Engineering & Management."(Just an idea) "However, in the second year I suffered a few setbacks." - if this is worth mentioning[which I don't know that it is] then you have to be specific and honest. Highlight that you significantly improved your score in your final year, and your First class distinction. Don't bother with the disappointment. I suggest a heavy rewrite. With these points in mind. Don't use passive sentence constructions. Tailor it to each school/program, you should really demonstrate why a particular program is of interest to you. Don't stress the American aspect because that just tells the adcomms that you would settle for any American school. Tell them why their particular program interested you. (I say this twice because its so important) Details like the soccer thing don't really fit. I understand you're trying to say that you can be a leader but is sounds disingenuous and artificial, and it doesn't fit the flow of your SOP. Anyway these are just some of my thoughts. Hope that they're helpful best of luck!

Hey az91, just a word of slight caution. If you really like her, and if you would like things to progress romantically then pay close attention to cues like this. She may have told you about her old best friend because she's hinting that she's looking for a friend and not a lover. I've known many a smart, pretty girl, who forever have to deal with too many guyfriends falling in love with them, often while pretending to be just friends. (I've also been one of those guys once) Sooner or later those feelings get revealed a make a mess of things. Sure get her number, ask her out. But if you're looking for a relationship be honest about that (that is, just flirt). If she's just looking for friendship don't play along unless you know you're not going to want more down the road.

Hey racataca! Its nice to find someone with the same interests. Language Evolution is also my main field of inquiry too, particularly with relation to dance notation. Edinburgh is definitely the hub of language Evolution and where I am applying as my first choice. Dr. Simon Kirby is the head of that field, and also James Kirby is there too (no relation). But I don't think they do much with music there. I have a similar problem since my research will eventually require the use of dancer subjects and Edinburgh has neither a dance department or much of fine arts at all (may have to travel to Glasgow), nor a big dance or formal music scene. McGill certainly has a strong music school and plenty of networks between the two. Im also looking at U Penn because they have two professors there who work on Language evolution (one recently a grad of Edinburgh). NYU may be of interest too because of access/networks to the TISCH school of the arts. It is a small field at the moment though so if you find any other schools or People of Interest, please message me, because I seem to be having the same trouble as you.

Hi Francophile, I think you underestimate how many linguistics programs will accept candidates without a strong background in linguistics. Many universities simply don't have a linguistics program, especially liberal arts colleges, so many U.S. PhD/MA programs are more lineant about a prerequisit BA or MA in linguistics. You probably should just stress your background in linguistics from you BA minor and your background with French (I am myself an English Lit and Classics [Greek and Latin] major). Alternatively keep an eye out for progams like McGill University (and other Canadian linguistic programs) where they are open to candidates without a linguistic background, but ask that admitted candidates complete a qualifying year. This qualifying year (at McGill, UofToronto, and UBC) usually just entails 4-5 basic undergraduate credits in Linguistics (usually phonetics, semantics, syntax and morphology). Mind you that the qualifying years usually don't qualify for funding and for an international student will probably run you about 20k. That said, since you already have a minor in linguistics you should may already have those basic credits in which case you can probably skip the qualifying. Talking to admissions is probably the best idea in this scenario. I don't know how many schools in the U.S. offer this sort of qualifying year option. The U.K. on the other hand offer 1 year "taught" masters as an alternative. These 1 year programs are often purposed specifically for transitioning from one field to a new one. They typically run around £16,000, but funding is available if you apply early. You can often move from one of these programs directly into a PhD in Linguistics in the U.K., though if you want to do a PhD in the states you will probably have to repeat the masters part of the PhD. I'm not sure what you mean by a PhD in "French Linguistics" though. Linguistics programs are generally more intersted in the study of language and its mechanisms rather than the study of any one language. You should probably look for a program that interests you within one of the sub-fields of linguistics (phonology, syntax, morphology, semantics/pragmatics, psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics, historical linguistics, etc), rather than based on language. Most schools will have a professors who works with French since it is a major language of scholarship. That said, I would again suggest McGill University (not simply because it is my alma mater). It has a fairly strong program that is up and coming with a strong focus on experimental linguistics. Being in Montreal every professor there is fluently bilingual, and there is naturally a lot of research conducted there on French. It also has strong ties to the neighbouring francophone Université de Montréal (a strong but overlooked university). Oh, and Montréal is, as far as I am concerned, the best city to study in, in North America. It has a very large student population, it is really, really cheap to live in, and has a vibrant mix of European and North American sensibilities. Anyway that's my two-cents. Hope it helps. I really don't think you necessarily need to do a MA in linguistics, but you should find at least a tentative research topic that interests you and which has implications for the study of language in general rather than just French.