Language and Communication Technologies M.Sc./M.A.
The Master’s programme in Language and Communication Technologies (LCT) is an international, research-oriented degree designed for students aiming to deepen their expertise in computational linguistics, linguistics, and advanced language technologies. This full-time graduate course combines theoretical foundations with cutting-edge applications in artificial intelligence and language processing. Structured across four semesters and offered exclusively in the winter semester, the programme provides both academic depth and hands-on training.
As part of an international consortium, students study at two partner universities—including institutions in Germany, Italy, Malta, France, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, China, and Australia. Depending on their chosen study track, graduates receive either a Master of Science or Master of Arts, jointly awarded by the universities they attended. With English as the primary language of instruction and a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, the LCT programme prepares graduates for careers in research, technology development, and global industry roles in language-related technologies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.) / Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Standard period of study: 4 semesters
- Location: Saarbrücken
- Study type: Graduate, full-time, international
- Admission semester: Winter semester only
- Area of study: Computer Science, Computational Linguistics, Linguistics
- Admission modus: Without admission restriction
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Language & Technology
- Introduction to Computational Linguistics
- Formal Language Theory & Logic
- Foundations of Linguistics (syntax, semantics, phonology)
- Programming / Computer Science Basics (if required by track)
Semester 2 – Core Language and Communication Technologies
- Statistical & Neural Natural Language Processing
- Machine Learning for Language Technology
- Language Resources, Corpora & Annotation
- Elective in Linguistics or Computer Science
Semester 3 – Mobility Semester at Partner University
- Advanced Topics in Language Technology
- Specialized Seminars (e.g. Dialogue Systems, MT, Speech Tech)
- Project Work in an International Research or Industry Context
- Intercultural and Academic Skills Development
Semester 4 – Master’s Thesis & Specialization
- Independent Research Thesis in LCT (M.Sc. or M.A. track)
- Thesis Colloquium / Defense
- Optional Advanced Seminar aligned with thesis topic
Career Opportunities
Career paths include NLP engineer, computational linguist, machine learning specialist, data scientist, language technology developer, research assistant, and AI-driven product designer. Thanks to the programme’s international mobility structure and partnerships with universities worldwide, students also gain valuable experience for global career networks and doctoral research opportunities in Europe and beyond.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing the Language and Communication Technologies master's programme means joining an international academic network that brings together leading universities from Europe, Asia, and Australia. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with cutting-edge applications in computational linguistics, artificial intelligence, and language technology.
The programme’s greatest strength lies in its interdisciplinary nature and strong global orientation. By studying at two universities within the consortium, students build both advanced technical proficiency and an international professional profile.
Contact Information
Saarland University – Student Advisory Service
Campus, 66123 Saarbrücken
Tel: +49 681 302-3513
Fax: +49 681 302-4526
Email: studienberatung@uni-saarland.de
Programme Contact – Computational Linguistics & Phonetics
Campus Saarbrücken, Geb. D3 1, Zi. C1.10
Tel: +49 681 85775-5356
Email: lct-info@coli.uni-saarland.de
Contact person: Dr. Ivana Kruijff-Korbayová
International Office – Saarland University
Campus A4 4, 66123 Saarbrücken
Tel: +49 681 302-71100
Fax: +49 681 302-71101
Email: international@io.uni-saarland.de
