Linguistics
UNDERGRADUATE MAJOR
A Linguistics major allows students to study the full range of aspects of human language, from sign to speech, to writing, from their structure, to their use, from the history of language, to how they are used in every day talk, as well as the psychological and neurological aspects of language. It investigates how people convey meanings using language resources (sounds, signs, words, grammar, genre), but through this seeks to uncover features common to all human languages, the 'linguistic universals'. So linguists study international languages like English, and endangered languages with fewer than 100 speakers. Such study reveals that languages, which seem on first view to be different, on closer scrutiny, share many important deeper similarities.
Study plan
To major in linguistics students must complete 36 senior credit points, including 12 credit points from two of the following units of study offered in 2011: Semester 1 - LNGS2620,LNGS2603, LNGS3601, LNGS3608 Semester 2 - LNGS2602, LNGS2604 or LNGS2621 or LNGS2604 which is not offered in 2011.
Graduate opportunities
Sydney Arts and Social Sciences graduates work in government departments at all levels, and major private sector consultancies and corporations, locally and overseas. The Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences offers a range of subject areas that prepare graduates for careers in administration, education, business research, marketing, media, management consultancy, public relations, gallery and museum curatorship, hospitality and tourism, community and welfare. Our graduates are proficient in research and inquiry, and demonstrate personal and intellectual autonomy, and ethical, social and professional understanding, qualities sought after by leading employers all over the world.
Further study for major
Eligible candidates may proceed to an Honours year in the Bachelor of Arts, or apply for admission to a rich postgraduate program in the humanities and social sciences, comprising advanced learning and professional courses. Master degrees include capstone projects ranging from internships with government and non-government organisations in Australia and overseas, the gallery and museum sector, and leading media organisations, to opportunities for independent research projects which prepare students for higher degrees by research.
Related subject areas
English, Psychology