Joint Ph.D. Anthropology & Linguistics

Applicants to The University of Arizona’s Ph.D. program in Anthropology and Linguistics (ANLI) should have significant background in both linguistics and anthropology.

The ANLI program makes it possible for students to pursue the study of language in its social context and linguistic theory, drawing on the resources of both the Department of Linguistics and the Linguistic Anthropology program within the School of Anthropology, without having to go through two separate Ph.D. programs.  Potential applicants should clearly address in their statement of intent how their past experiences and future research interests fit with the current strengths of both departments.

Both departments have strong national reputations for their contributions to the study of language, and each department has specialized in mutually compatible ways in the kinds of linguistic theory and analysis it offers students. The Department of Linguistics focuses on formal and experimental language structure models, including the study of Southwestern Native American languages and cultures, and historical linguistics. Linguistic Anthropology, as one of the four sub-disciplines within the field of anthropology, has concentrated on developing the study of language in its social context, particularly in sociolinguistics, including strong links with Cultural Anthropology. Scholars from both departments have also conducted research and fieldwork on numerous languages.

The joint degree in Anthropology and Linguistics is designed for students interested in both departments who would emerge from the program as job candidates for both linguistics and anthropology departments. Both the School of Anthropology and the Department of Linguistics offer teaching assistantships and research support for students in the joint Ph.D. program.