Linguistics
Linguistics is an inherently interdisciplinary field, and majors are attracted to it in different ways. Some have simply always enjoyed studying foreign languages. Others have studied computer science, logic or mathematics and are looking for a field where these disciplines can be applied to problems of human behavior. Still others are intrigued by the history behind similarities and differences among related languages. Accordingly, in addition to general introductory courses in areas like phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics and historical linguistics, linguistics majors are encouraged to develop programs of study that focus on individual areas of special interest, combining the major with a language area, for example, or with a related discipline such as anthropology, computer science, philosophy or psychology. The linguistics major is characterized by:
- small classes, and the opportunity for close interaction between students and professors, both in and out of the classroom.
- the ability to tailor your program around specific interests.
- rich opportunities for connections with other fields.
- a chance to use the resources of our state-of-the-art phonetics and computational linguistics labs.
Some majors go on to advanced study in linguistics, but the majority pursue careers in areas as diverse as speech technology, computational linguistics, bioacoustics, speech pathology, language teaching, law, advertising, medicine and business.
Interesting Classes
- English Words: Histories and Mysteries
- Language and History in the British Isles
- Language and Society
- Linguistics Theory and Poetic Structure
- History of the English Language to 1300/since 1300
Students went on to...
- Study anthropology at the University of Kansas
- Study premed at University of Massachusetts
- Be a professional hockey player with the Calgary Flames
