The Language and Linguistics Concentration at the University of Memphis specializes in applied linguistics such as dialectology, language acquisition, and sociolinguistics. Courses in these areas are offered in both the undergraduate and graduate programs. Core areas of linguistic study include phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics, and discourse analysis. The Language and Linguistics Concentration provides students with the tools necessary to investigate language.
Students confront the questions, theories, and methods of exploring language as a system.
In addition to the theoretical nature of language study, students explore the real-life implications of language for literature, English as a Second Language, composition, language development, and the social dimensions of language and linguistics. This Concentration obviously complements the English as a Second Language concentration. Moreover, the Language and Linguistics concentration is a natural complement to the literature and professional and creative writing concentrations. As a collateral concentration, it also heightens literature students' and creative writers' sensitivity to language and sharpens professional writing students' analysis and use of language. They are encouraged to engage in interactive dialogue and to participate in programs where they will be able to exchange ideas with prominent linguists.