Child Language Doctoral Program

Applying for Admission

Teacher and Children

The University of Kansas offers a specialized Ph.D. in Child Language focusing on the interdisciplinary academic preparation and research training of child-language specialists.

You may apply online. Applications for admission in the fall semester should be received by January 15.

Apply online

Domestic student application form   /   International student application form

The following application materials are required:

  • your signed, dated and completed application form, if you use a paper form. However, we encourage you to apply online.
  • one official transcript from each college or university you have attended. Transcripts must come in a sealed envelope directly from the institution.
  • the non-refundable application fee in the form of a money order payable to the University of Kansas. If you apply online, the fee will be collected through that web site.
    • Domestic student - paper application: $55.00
    • International student - paper application: $60.00
    • Domestic student - online application: $45.00
    • International student - online application: $55.00
  • 3 letters of recommendation
  • a list of all courses taken in relevant areas such as child development, linguistics, psychology, special education, and speech and hearing sciences
  • scores from the Graduate Record Examination
  • scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language if your first language is not English
  • a curriculum vita
  • a personal statement describing the applicant's interests in studying child language and professional goals

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree with course work in linguistics, psychology, speech pathology, and statistics
  • Undergraduate GPA of B or better
  • Preference is given to students with a master's degree in linguistics, psychology, education, special education, or speech and hearing sciences

Useful Links


The University of Kansas prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, age, ancestry, disability, status as a veteran, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, gender identity, gender expression and genetic information in the University’s programs and activities. The following person has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the non-discrimination policies: Director of the Office of Institutional Opportunity and Access, IOA@ku.edu, 1246 W. Campus Road, Room 153A, Lawrence, KS, 66045, (785)864-6414, 711 TTY.