Undergraduate
What Is Linguistics?
Linguistics is concerned with the study of language as a core property of human cognition and interaction. It is a broad field that straddles the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences.
Fields of study
Major areas of study in linguistics include the following fields:
- Applied linguistics: second-language learning theory, literacy, bilingual education
- Theoretical linguistics: development of psychologically plausible models of language sound systems, word structure, sentence and discourse structure, and meaning
- Historical and comparative linguistics: study of language history, both language change and relationships among languages
- Descriptive-anthropological linguistics: documentation and analysis of languages, especially little-known languages through field work
- Psycholinguistics: research on such topics as sentence processing, problems in reading, and how children acquire their first language
- Sociolinguistics: study of language use and socially controlled variation in form, conversation and narrative discourse, social trends reflected in language use, and political aspects of language use
- Computational linguistics: natural language generation, knowledge representation and artificial intelligence, and recognition of systems
Many, but certainly not all, people come to linguistics through a love of languages. However, love of languages itself is not sufficient to ensure success and happiness as a linguistics major. The student also must enjoy analytical thought, as linguists employ analytical tools in the study of human languages.
Courses
Students considering a major in linguistics should take the introductory linguistics course (1000, formerly 1950) at their earliest opportunity to help gauge whether the major is right for them. The linguistics major gives students a solid foundation in the central areas of linguistic theory and analysis. The structure of human language (its sounds, word structures, and syntax) is the focus of the linguistics courses required for the major. In addition, the major’s language requirement is designed to make sure students acquire a perspective on linguistic structures besides those of their native language and at least some exposure to one language that is structurally very unlike English.
Careers
Careers in linguistics include teaching English as a second language and other languages including American sign language; computational linguistics research in industry and public agencies; field research on endangered languages and cultures; research and teaching at the university level; careers in publishing and advertising, speech pathology and rehabilitation, translation and interpreting, and law; and governmental consulting on language policies. Most careers in linguistics require graduate training.
Translation certificate
Note: As of 2004, the University of Pittsburgh no longer offers a general certificate in translation. However, the study of linguistics is essential to a knowledge of translation theory and practice, providing a broad knowledge of language that can serve as a basis for further study in translation.
Individual language departments may offer training in translation; please contact each department individually for this information.