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Linguistics Minor
What Is Linguistics?
Linguistics is the scientific study of language, an in-demand field in the globalized world.
See Linguistics Minor detailsÌý²ú±ð±ô´Ç·É.
Why Study Linguistics?
Language is
- an essential aspect of humanity and diversity
- a fundamental part of culture, identity, discrimination, politics, human rights, and more
- a coherent, dynamic system that changes in response to society and over time
Critical awareness of how language works in the world we live in is necessary for solving the challenges that we face.
Language as a singularly human element is fundamental to our societies and our humanity. In the Linguistics minor you will learn about how language affects all aspects of society and social relations. You will also learn about language itself as a coherent yet dynamic system that changes over time in response to its social environment.
Since language underpins how we interact and how we see ourselves and, critical linguistic study is key to understanding the world we live in and the human and ethical challenges we face.
Linguistics is an in-demand field for employers since language and communication are fundamental to all industries – a trend that is only growing with technology and globalization.
Q & A
Can I still minor in Linguistics if I don't speak another language?
YES!
Not all linguists are bilingual! The Linguistics minor can be done entirely in English. However, one of the minor’s strengths is that it draws on our rich WLC course offerings, and we encourage you to explore WLC language electives.
How will the Linguistics minor fit into my program of study?
The Linguistics minor is designed to interface with our WLC majors and minors and is a great complement to majors in other departments.
Anthropology
Communications
Critical Race, Gender, and Cultural Studies
Education
International Studies
Psychology
Sociology
And more!
For More Information
- Academic Advising for Linguistics:
Tara Pylate,Ìý202-885-1452
wlcprogramadvisor@american.edu - General Program Information:
Dr. Amelia Tseng,Ìý
Linguistics Coordinator
tseng@american.edu - AU Linguistics Instagram
News & Notes
- The 2024 Hugo J. Mueller Linguistics Lecture took place on October 24th. This year's lecture, titled "Pronoun Euphoria," featured Dr. Kirby Conrad on trans and nonbinary linguistics from both a social and grammatical perspective.
- Amelia Tseng'sÌý"" examines how Latinx children acquired African èßäÉçÇøapp English as a second language through play and peer socialization.
- Amelia Tseng publishedÌý"."
The Power of Words: CAS Launches Linguistics Minor
Amelia Tseng talks about Linguistics as key to understanding humanity
Word cloud image source:ÌýPaapatiÌý´¥ÌýÌý