Language and Intercultural Communication, Master's programme
Read more about Master's Programme in Language and Intercultural Communication at gu.se.
Welcome to a programme for students who want to deepen their understanding of language in a multilingual and multicultural world. You will explore how language, culture, and communication interact across contexts, and develop advanced analytical and practical skills for academic and professional environments.
Organised by
Department of Languages and Literatures at the Faculty of Humanities
Student union
Syllabus
What the programme offers
The programme combines linguistic theory with applied perspectives on communication across cultures. You will study areas such as intercultural communication, sociolinguistics, discourse analysis, semantics and pragmatics, and translation.
Throughout your studies, you will develop the ability to critically analyse language use in different social, cultural and global contexts. The courses emphasise both theoretical insight and methodological skills, preparing you to work independently with complex linguistic and intercultural issues.
Programme overview
The programme comprises 120 credits over four semesters (or 60 credits over two semesters if you plan to take a 60-credit master’s).
Year 1
Semester 1: Foundations of intercultural communication
- SIK220 Language and Intercultural Communication (7.5 credits)
- SIK225 Research Methods in Linguistics and Intercultural Communication (7.5 credits)
- SIK221 Language and Society (7.5 credits)
- Course within your main field of study (7.5 credits)
Semester 2: Academic specialisation
- SPL230 Academic Writing (7.5 credits)
- SIK230 Advanced Research Essay (15 credits)
- Elective course or specialisation (7.5 credits)
Year 2
Semester 3: Advanced programme courses
- SIK222 Intercultural and Contrastive Semantics and Pragmatics (7.5 credits)
- SIK223 Translating languages and cultures (7.5 credits)
- SIK224 Discourses (7.5 credits)
- Course within your main field of study (7.5 credits)
Semester 4: You choose between two study paths depending on your academic goals.
- Option A: Internship or Field Studies + 15‑credit thesis: Suitable if you are combining the thesis with internship or field studies and prefer a more applied focus.
- Option B: 30‑credit Master’s Thesis: This path is recommended if you plan to continue to doctoral studies or pursue a research-oriented career.
Read more about these options on our Canvas programme page.
Career Prospects
Graduates are equipped for work in:
- international and intercultural communication
- global education and cultural exchange
- multinational organisations and NGOs
- translation, mediation, and cultural project work
- communication and public information roles
- research and doctoral studies in linguistics, communication, or cultural studies
The programme’s international orientation and focus on applied intercultural competence provide a strong foundation for global career paths.
See some examples of current workplaces of the programme’s alumni
Stay on track
- Canvas
Use Canvas to access course materials, schedules, and announcements. The programme page in Canvas also provides general information, events, and guidance throughout your studies. - Course syllabi and reading lists
You can find official course documents through the University of Gothenburg’s online search tools.
Find syllabus and reading list - The Student Portal
The Student Portal contains essential information about your studies, including regulations, support services, and practical guidance:
Your studies
Questions?
For study planning and individual guidance, please contact the Study Counsellor.
