Computational Linguistics and Language Technology as Major (90), MSc
The international Master’s Major in Computational Linguistics and Language Technology (90 ECTS credits) provides comprehensive and research-oriented training in AI-based natural language processing and speech technology. The program deepens expertise in neural and data-driven methods, including advanced machine learning and large language models, and combines them with empirical methods in digital linguistics and speech science. It is complemented by a broad range of computer science courses that strengthen foundations in artificial intelligence, data science, algorithms, and software engineering. Graduates acquire strong methodological, programming, and research skills and are qualified for doctoral studies as well as research-intensive careers in academia and industry.
The language of instruction is English.
Study Guide
Sample Curriculum
The sample curriculum shows one possible study plan for completing the program in four semesters as a full-time student. In a Major/Minor combination (120 ECTS credits in total), you will normally earn around 30 ECTS credits per semester. You may take fewer credits per semester, which will extend the duration of your studies accordingly.
For the Major study program, we recommend starting in the Fall Semester. Starting in the Spring Semester is possible in exceptional cases if you already have Python programming skills and basic knowledge of machine learning.
Modular Structure of the Study Program
Each module is assigned to exactly one module group. To complete the program, you must earn a minimum number of ECTS credits in the required module groups and at least 90 ECTS credits in the Major overall. Beyond the minimum requirements, you can freely choose an additional 24 ECTS credits from modules offered within the study program according to your interests.
At least 50% of the ECTS credits completed for the Major must be graded, including the Master’s thesis.
The program provides considerable flexibility to develop your own academic profile. Beyond the required core modules, you can specialize through advanced modules in computational linguistics and language technology, scientific specialization, practice-oriented modules, and computer science.
Throughout the program, you will encounter different learning formats, including lectures, seminars, programming projects, internships, and other research- and practice-oriented modules. These formats combine advanced theoretical and methodological training with scientific, technical, and practical experience.
Minimum ECTS Requirements for the Module Groups in the Major 90
The minimum requirements for the individual module groups add up to 66 ECTS credits. The remaining 24 ECTS credits may be earned freely from modules offered within the study program.
| Module Group | Minimum ECTS Credits |
|---|---|
| Core Modules of Computational Linguistics and Language Technology | 24 |
| Scientific Specialization | 6 |
| Computational Linguistics and Language Technology in Practice | 6 |
| Computer Science | 0 |
| Other Curricular Modules | 0 |
| Master’s Thesis | 30 |
| Total Minimum Requirement | 66 |
Admission Requirements
Admission without additional requirements is granted to students holding a Bachelor’s degree with a Major or Minor in Computational Linguistics and Language Technology from the University of Zurich.
In general, a Bachelor’s degree in Linguistics or Computer Science qualifies students for admission to the Master’s Major in Computational Linguistics and Language Technology. Admission with a degree in another field of study is generally possible.
If required competencies are missing, admission may be granted subject to additional requirements. These requirements are determined individually (sur dossier) based on the applicant’s academic background.
The required competencies correspond to the contents of the Bachelor’s Minor in Computational Linguistics and Language Technology (60 ECTS credits). Additional requirements, if necessary, are assigned from modules of the Bachelor’s program in Computational Linguistics and Language Technology. The total amount of additional requirements across the Major and Minor study programs may not exceed 60 ECTS credits.
Official Documents
The following official documents apply to the Master’s Major in Computational Linguistics and Language Technology (90 ECTS credits):
All documents are in German or contain content in German.