Applied Linguistics
Applied Linguistics is the study of how people use, learn, teach, and are affected by language—every day, in every corner of the world. Applied linguists investigate real-life issues involving language in a variety of contexts and draw on interdisciplinary perspectives and analytic tools to address them in classrooms, institutions, and society. Students in this major learn to investigate, question, and analyze real-world language use.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Minor
Explore Interests Related to Applied Linguistics
Degree Options
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Communication Arts and Sciences
- English
- Linguistics
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You relish in spotting patterns in language
- You get a kick out of examining words, accents, or grammar rules
- You enjoy helping others with language—whether that’s writing a clearer sentence or ordering in a new language
- You picture yourself as a “global citizen” who is drawn to traveling and meeting new people, and sees language as a bridge to new experiences and perspectives.
Transferable Skills
- Written and Oral Communication
- Critical Thinking and Analytical Reasoning
- Adaptability and Curiosity
- Research Design and Process
- Cultural and Linguistic Versatility
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Language and Social Justice
- Stories of Language and Cultural Learning
- Language and Technology
- Language Rights, Policy, and Planning
Career Paths
Continuing Education
- Graduate school to study applied linguistics, education, psychology, discourse studies, and speech language pathology
- Law school
Job Titles
- Brand Communication Manager
- Social Media Manager
- Human Resources Manager
- Marketing Director
- Project Manager
- Researcher
- Professor
Industries
Business, Communications, Diplomacy, Education, Law, Nonprofit, Research, Social Justice and Advocacy
Employers
- Universities
- Language Centers
- First American Financial
- JPMorganChase
- U.S. Department of State
- Educational Testing Service (ETS)
- Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)
Have questions about this program?
Future students, contact the Liberal Arts Recruitment Team.
Current students, contact your academic adviser.
This program is housed
in the Department of Applied Linguistics
at Penn State University Park.