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LINGUISTICS
www.linguistics.pitt.edu
412-624-PITT • oafa@pitt.edu • www.oafa.pitt.edu
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. Major areas of study in linguistics include the fol-
lowing fields:
• Theoretical linguistics: development of psychologically plausible models of language sound systems, word struc-
ture, sentence and discourse structure, and meaning
• Historical and comparative linguistics: study of language history, both language change and relationships among
languages
• 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 dis-
course, social trends reflected in language use, and political aspects of language use
• Computational linguistics: natural language generation, knowledge representation and artificial intelligence,
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 must also enjoy analytical thought, as
linguists employ analytical tools in the study of human languages. Students considering a major in linguistics should take
the introductory linguistics course 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.
Major Requirements
Students must complete at least 27 credits in the Department of Linguistics, including the following courses:
• Linguistics 1000 (formerly 1950) Introduction to Linguistics
• Linguistics 1578 Phonetics and Phonemics
• Linguistics 1579 Phonology
• Linguistics 1773 Morphology
• Linguistics 1777 Syntactic Theory
• Linguistics 1860 Historical Linguistics OR Linguistics 1682 Introduction to Semantics
OR Linguistics 1267 (Aspects of Sociolinguistics)
• Linguistics 1930 Introduction to Applied Linguistics—Capstone course
A student may petition to have a given requirement waived if an equivalent course was completed elsewhere before as a
departmental major.
Because of the importance of automatic information-processing technology, the field of computational linguistics is a rapidly grow-
ing job market with many job opportunities. Undergraduate training in linguistics, computer science, and psychology provides good
preparation in this field; students interested in this area should arrange to major in one of these departments and to take supplementary
courses in the others.
Study Abroad
Studying abroad is an exciting way to add an international perspective to your undergraduate education and strengthen your credentials
as a graduate. Since only about 8 percent of American students have studied abroad, this experience distinguishes you when you enter
the job market or pursue graduate study. The experience allows you to broaden your personal experience and gain an appreciation of
other cultures while earning credits toward your degree. Scholarships are available and financial aid is applicable.
The information printed in this document was accurate to the best of our knowledge at time of printing and is subject to change at any time at the University’s sole discretion.
The University of Pittsburgh is an affirmative action, equal opportunity institution.
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