International Master's in Sociolinguistics and Multilingualism
The International Master’s in Sociolinguistics and Multilingualism is a full-time international graduate program jointly offered by Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and partner universities in Sweden and Lithuania. Designed for students with a background in linguistics or philology, the program provides advanced knowledge in Nordic and Baltic sociolinguistics, multilingualism, and the languages and cultures of Northern Europe. The degree spans four semesters and is offered exclusively in the winter semester.
Located in Mainz, one of Germany’s established academic hubs, this master's program emphasizes linguistic diversity, sociolinguistic theory, and applied multilingualism. Through international cooperation with universities in Stockholm and Kaunas, students benefit from academic mobility, intercultural perspectives, and a unique multilingual learning environment. The program reflects Europe’s commitment to linguistic research and cultural understanding, making it an excellent choice for students interested in sociolinguistics, minority languages, and multilingual societies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Mainz
- Study Type: Graduate (international, full-time)
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Nordic Studies, Scandinavian Studies
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Sociolinguistics
- Introduction to Sociolinguistic Theory
- Languages of Northern Europe
- Multilingualism in the Nordic and Baltic Regions
- Language and Society
Semester 2 – Applied Linguistics & Multilingual Practices
- Language Policy and Language Planning
- Linguistic Diversity in Europe
- Research Methods in Linguistics
- Project Module I
Semester 3 – Specialization & International Mobility
- Advanced Sociolinguistics
- Elective Focus (Nordic / Baltic / Finno-Ugrian languages)
- Study Abroad at Partner Universities (Stockholm or Kaunas)
- Project Module II
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Final Project
- Independent Research Thesis
- Empirical Linguistic Study
- Presentation & Academic Portfolio Development
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse roles in both the private and public sectors, including positions in administration, multilingual consulting, communication, cultural institutions, international organizations, and—with additional qualifications—language-related roles in the EU or political journalism. The international structure of the program and its focus on Nordic and Baltic sociolinguistics provide students with unique interdisciplinary and intercultural competencies valued across Europe.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the International Master’s in Sociolinguistics and Multilingualism means joining an academic environment centered on linguistic diversity, international collaboration, and cultural expertise. With partner institutions in Stockholm and Kaunas, students gain direct experience with languages and societies of Northern Europe while benefiting from a curriculum grounded in research and applied sociolinguistics.
The program’s strengths lie in its multilingual orientation, academic mobility, interdisciplinary curriculum, and focus on lesser-used and minority languages. Students not only develop strong analytical and linguistic skills but also gain the cultural awareness and research capabilities essential for careers involving language, communication, and sociocultural analysis in a globalized world.
Contact Information
Student Advisory Service
Zentrale Studienberatung – Studierenden Service Center
Forum universitatis 1, 1. OG
55128 Mainz, Germany
Tel: 06131 / 39-22122
Fax: 06131 / 39-25004
Email: zsba@uni-mainz.de
Programme Contact
Johannes Gutenberg-Universität
FB 05 / Department of English and Linguistics
Forschungs- und Lehrbereich Sprachen Nordeuropas und des Baltikums
Jakob-Welder-Weg 18
55099 Mainz, Germany
Tel: +49 (0) 6131 / 39-23081
Fax: +49 (0) 6131 / 39-23973
Email: sarhimaa@uni-mainz.de
Univ.-Prof. Dr. Anneli Sarhimaa
International Office
Studierendenservice – Zulassung International
Studierenden Service Center, Forum universitatis 1, 1. OG
55128 Mainz, Germany
Tel: 06131 / 39-22525
Fax: 06131 / 39-25548
Email: incomings@international.uni-mainz.de
