It is language that most clearly separates humans from all other species on the planet. Human affairs revolve around language. Linguistics — the systematic study of language — enables students to understand the inner workings of this most special human tool: who and why communication happens, or fails to happen; how language is used to support people in groups; and how the structure of language is the structure of human intelligence. Linguistics has many subfields, including the history and relationship among languages; the study of meaning, grammar, and context; the sound patterns of language; the interplay between language and society; the role of language and cognition in human evolution; the importance of language in interpersonal and intergroup communication; and the significance of linguistic analysis in law.
"Language is the most massive and inclusive art we know, a massive and anonymous work of unconscious generations."
–Edward Sapir
The Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Threat Assessment, and Strategic Analysis at Â鶹´«Ã½
The Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Threat Assessment, and Strategic Analysis conducts original research, accepts outside assignments, and provides internship opportunities for graduate students at Â鶹´«Ã½.
Learn more about The Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Threat Assessment, and Strategic Analysis
In the Classroom
Programs
The Linguistics program in Â鶹´«Ã½'s Department of Comparative Literature, Languages, and Linguistics offers a number of undergraduate and graduate majors, minors, and degrees.
Your Future
Career Potential
Explore career potential in linguistics, by discovering available fields and positions, and read alumni success stories.
