About Linguistics

Linguistics is the study of language. As language is a complex subject matter, so is linguistics a complex discipline. Linguists study the sounds (phonetics), sound patterns (phonology), word formation processes (morphology), word-order rules (syntax) and systems of meaning (semantics) of language. The goal of this type of linguistic study is to arrive at generalizations about any human language in particular, and, through comparisons with other languages, arrive at generalizations about human language in general and the way our mind works. Though linguists may learn many languages, it is more important that they learn about the structure of languages rather than achieve fluency in several of them. This means that even a person who knows only one or two languages can still thrive in the field of linguistics.

Language can also be studied from psychological, sociological, anthropological and philosophical viewpoints. Linguists also study problems of a more practical nature such as first and second language acquisition, computerized speech production, the relationship between language and social status, and language as a persuasive force. Linguistics is by nature a complex discipline, and studying it greatly enhances a liberal arts education.

Linguistics after Macalester

Perhaps the most frequently asked question after "what is linguistics?" is "what can I do with a linguistics degree?" Although many people choose to pursue a graduate degree in linguistics or a related discipline, one must be aware that teaching and research positions at colleges and universities are becoming more and more scarce and competition more fierce. However, even if one chooses not to go into academia, there are many more career options for a linguistics major other than teaching languages or becoming a translator. Many graduate schools offer programs in applied and computational linguistics. In addition to that, linguistics majors are well prepared for analyzing data, creating strong arguments and writing clearly because of the nature of linguistics. And since linguistics is the study of language, a bachelor's degree in linguistics prepares students for any job related to language: journalism, editorial jobs, advertising, and so on.

More questions?

If you want to know more about linguistics, please feel free to e-mail Professors John Haiman and Christina Esposito. We also recommend that you take a look at the Linguistic Society of America's Why Major in Linguistics? page, which contains a lot of basic information on studying linguistics and using it in your career.