Linguistics
Linguistics is the scientific study of language—how it is structured, how it is acquired, how it is used to convey information, and how it changes over time. While many linguists do speak more than one language—or at least know how to approach the study of other languages—linguistics is much more than this. Through courses and a wide variety of research opportunities, our students explore how languages are structured (sentence structure, sound patterns, meaning and more), and how those structures are processed by the human brain. Since language is integral to all societies, linguists are interested in how language affects culture, and how social factors (place of birth, social class, ethnicity, gender, age, etc.) impact language use. We approach language from a global perspective, investigating commonalities and differences across languages in order to increase our understanding of what makes human communication unique.
Degree Types: Bachelor of Arts, Minor
Degree Options
Popular Double Majors or Minors
- Psychology
- Communication Sciences and Disorders
- Education
- Foreign Languages
About the Program
Why should I pursue this degree?
You might like this program if…
- You enjoy studying languages, particularly finding and applying linguistic patterns.
- You are interested in communication, and learning more about the function of language(s) in society.
- You like to think about how the human brain functions, and want to know more about language and cognition.
- You like logic, computer programming, and/or abstract puzzles.
Coursework
Opportunities to explore the following topics:
- Syntax
- Phonology
- Language and Cognition
- Bilingualism
- Language Change Over Time
Out-of-Classroom Experiences
Internships
- Estée Lauder
- Foundation for Individual Rights in Education
- Lehigh County Office of the District Attorney
Education Abroad Destinations
Colombia
France
Germany
Italy
Spain
Post-Graduation Opportunities
Continuing Education
- Graduate school to study anthropology, computer science, engineering, foreign languages, neurology, philosophy, psychology, sociology, or speech and hearing science
Alumni Industries
Computer Programming, Data Science, Publishing, Translation, Writing
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 Linguistics Program
at Penn State University Park.