The Undergraduate Program
Linguistics is the scientific study of the function and structure of language, and is concerned with language as a general aspect of human knowledge and behavior. The department offers three major tracks - Applied Linguistics; Language and Cognition; Language, Society and Communication -- and two honors tracks -- Language Structure and Theory; Language and Cognition. In addition, the department offers a joint major and a minor.
The department also offers undergraduate programs in German, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean.
Applied Linguistics prepares students for careers in TESL, bilingual education, and foreign language teaching, the program includes electives in education and a teaching internship. The B.A. can be a terminal degree, or can qualify the student for M.A. programs in Education and Applied Linguistics/TESL. Majors receive a thorough grounding in the structure of English and its function in American society, and practical teaching experience.
Language and Cognition prepares students for careers and advanced training in Linguistics, Cognitive Science, language education, child development, and adult language disorders. It is designed for students interested in exploring the interface between language structure and use and other human cognitive processes. Courses focus on the acquisition of language production and comprehension, the construction and conveyance of meaning, and the representation of language in the brain. Students may take this track as either an honors or non-honors program.
Language, Society and Communication prepares students for careers in the media, public relations, business and industry. Majors explore the central role that language plays in society, social interaction, and communication. Required courses focus on basic issues of the structure and the use of language. Electives focus on specific social and cultural contexts in America, and on methods for studying the use of language in distinctive contexts.
The Honors Programs prepare students for graduate study in linguistics, cognitive science, and fields related to cognitive science, such as psychology. Majors become proficient at all levels of linguistic analysis, and gain an overview of theoretical issues. The honors programs involve a more intensive examination of current issues in linguistics.
Joint Major programs are available in all tracks. Linguistics is often combined with another Social Science (e.g., Anthropology, CDS, Psychology), with English or Modern Language in a Joint or Double major program.
Languages and Linguistics - Special Major This is a Special Major crafted for students who are interested in a specific language, particularly its structure and history, and are also interested in language in general, both structurally and as situated in its cultural setting. It is ideal for students who wish to teach English in a foreign country, or who plan to go into foreign serivice; it is also appropriate if the student plans to pursue a M.Ed. in TESOL. (It is not designed for students planning to teach foreign languages in American schools, as it does not provide the 30 credit hours in the foreign language required for credentialling.) The major requires a minimum of 39 credits.
For specific information and assistance regarding admission to the Linguistics Department, please contact Dr. Jeri Jaeger, Director of Undergraduate Studies 716-645-2177 extension 732.