Program in Linguistics

Emory alumna Eva Rothenberg, a 2021 honors graduate in English and Linguistics, has been selected for the 2024 Marshall Scholarship.

What is Linguistics?

An Exploration Into How We Speak,
What We Speak & How People Communicate

The textbook definition of linguistics is the “scientific study of language” but it’s so much more. This complex and exciting field helps us better understand how we talk and communicate through multiple approaches such as:

Sociolinguistics - how we interact with language,
Language acquisition - how we acquire language; and
Historical linguistics - how we got to the language we have today.

The field of linguistics crosses into multiple disciplines to create new knowledge and deepen our understanding of our humanity. Linguistics allows us to examine how we ultimately relate to each other through the power of language.

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Reasons To Choose Linguistics

Fantastic Faculty

The accessibility and size of the linguistics department make it easy to connect with your professors and peers. Faculty are always happy to talk with you about your classes, goals, or even pets.

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Well-Rounded Graduates

Even if you go to class every day, the lack of diverse perspectives beyond the classroom can be limiting. These missed opportunities can stifle your intellectual growth. Attending public lectures will provide a more dynamic format so you can experience real-world examples of research and career professionals outside of just a college classroom.

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Career Possibilities

If you're not familiar with a career in linguistics, it can feel like a nebulous concept. When in actuality, a background in linguistics can give you the upper hand in the job market. There are many angles you can take with your Linguistics degree such as documenting endangered languages, researching language discrimination, and writing laws on Capitol Hill.

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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 21C

"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