The textbook definition of Linguistics is ‘the scientific study of language.’ At Emory we encourage students to approach linguistics from diverse perspectives: structural, socio-cultural, psychological, historical, philosophical, computational, quantitative and qualitative. Linguistics allows us view language in new ways and ultimately deepen our understanding of our humanity.
Reasons To Choose Linguistics
Fantastic Faculty
The Emory Linguistics Program prioritizes undergraduate teaching. Every semester you will get to select from thoughtfully designed, engaging courses in our faculty’s areas of expertise: sociolinguistics, theoretical linguistics, acquisition, cognition, linguistic history and diversity, and more.
Beyond the Classroom
The size of our program makes it easy for faculty and students to connect in and out of the classroom. We host invited lectures, an active student club, and an annual student linguistics conference. You can join a reading group, serve as a peer mentor, or work with faculty on linguistics-related research.
Well-Rounded Graduates
Our graduates go on to pursue a wide range of careers, including speech-language pathology, academic research, education, law and medicine. Because language is so central to human life, your study of linguistics will enable you to approach all kinds of problems with more nuance and understanding.
Changing Perspectives: One Student at a Time
"I ended up in Linguistics 101 by accident. After the very first day, I walked out of class knowing I wanted to study this my entire time here at Emory. It instantaneously impacted the way I see the world."
Emma Reidy 17C
"I loved the professors. They gave me a new perspective on how language works and how it affects everybody. Studying linguistics at Emory has given me a unique perspective on the world."
Zoe Bienert 23C
"I've had the opportunity to get involved in research projects already going on as well as some independent projects. This helped me become comfortable exploring various research topics."
Ben Campion 24C
Level up the skills that will unlock your career goals
Here's a short list of skills you'll gain to meet the challenges of our multicultural society and global community.
Debate
Some courses will provide you with the opportunity to analyze and present arguments while engaging in constructive dialogue.
Data Analysis
Data analysis plays a role in various areas of linguistics. The most important thing is how you utilize the tools that will allow you to delve deeper into the intricacies of language.
Project Management
Project management contains several key areas. Whether you're working in a lab or conducting independent research, you'll develop skills to assist you in planning and organizing your tasks to accomplish your goals.
Presentation
Presenting your posters at the Emory Undergraduate Linguistics Conference (EULC) is a great way to show your research and build speaker confidence.
Relationship Building
Relationship building carries from faculty to faculty, student to faculty, and student to student. You'll learn the art of building relationships beyond your undergraduate years.
Cultural Awareness
Learning how language plays out in society will impact how you perceive cultures. Studying linguistics will foster appreciation for different communication styles
Featured Courses
 | Erica Britt Instructor |
 | Jose Luis Boigues-Lopez Instructor |
 | Marjorie Pak Instructor |
Does this sound like you?
- You're interested in language and the human mind
- You like learning about different languages
- You wonder how children acquire language
- You're curious about accents and why people speak the way they do
If so, then Linguistics is for you!