The Program Linguistics is the scientific study of the function and structure of language, and is concerned with language as a general aspect of human knowledge and behavior. In addition, the department offers a joint major and a minor. Majors receive a thorough grounding in the structure of English and its function in American society, and practical teaching experience. The Language, Society, and Communication track prepares students for careers in the media, public relations, business, and industry. Majors explore the central role that language plays in society, social interaction, and communication.
Required courses focus on basic issues of the structure and the use of language.
Electives focus on specific social and cultural contexts in America, and on methods for studying the use of language in distinctive social contexts. The Honors Program prepares students for graduate study in linguistics, cognitive science, and fields related to cognitive science, such as psychology. Majors become proficient at all levels of linguistic analysis, and gain an overview of theoretical issues in preparation for graduate study. It involves a more intensive examination of current issues in linguistics. Borrowings into and from English.