2026 Best Colleges for Linguistics

We rigorously analyzed a host of variables to determine what colleges and universities offer the best Linguistics programs in America. The list includes 316 programs and you can sort by average salary, debt, acceptance rate and more to hone in on the the best programs for you.

If you’re still wondering whether Linguistics is the right field of study for you, check out our guide to majoring in Linguistics: what you can do with the major, how much you’ll make, and more.

For the purposes of these rankings we prioritized earnings after graduation 6 years and 10 years out for students that majored in Linguistics. Please note that earnings are one metric of success that can be used to judge a Linguistics program, but are by no means the best or only option. However, because this variable is provided by the vast majority of universities offering Linguistics we used it as the primary method or ordering the best universities for Linguistics.

By scrolling all the way through the list you’ll find every college or university that offers a Linguistics in America.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Universities offering Linguistics Majors and Degrees

What is the best university for majoring in Linguistics?

University of Chicago is the best university for majoring in Linguistics based on earnings data. On average, graduates from University of Chicago earned an average of $52,107 2 years after graduating.

What is the cheapest university for majoring in Linguistics?

University of North Georgia is the cheapest university for majoring in Linguistics based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $4,403 to attend University of North Georgia.

What is the most expensive university for majoring in Linguistics?

Columbia University in the City of New York is the most expensive university for majoring in Linguistics based on the Department of Education tuition data. On average, students pay $53,000 to attend Columbia University in the City of New York.