Linguistics

Program Overview

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The BA in Linguistics at The Ohio State University offers a comprehensive understanding of human language, combining humanistic and scientific approaches. Students gain critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of language as a social phenomenon and cognitive process, preparing them for careers in research, computing, communications, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

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Overview:

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Linguistics program at The Ohio State University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of human language and its intricate systems of communication. By combining humanistic and scientific approaches, the program equips students with critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of language as both a social phenomenon and a cognitive process.

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Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Provide a rigorous and systematic exploration of the properties of human languages, encompassing their sound systems (phonetics), grammatical structures (syntax), and semantic meanings.
• Foster an understanding of the historical evolution of languages, as well as the cognitive and social factors that shape language acquisition and use.
• Develop students' analytical skills through hands-on research projects and internships, enabling them to apply their knowledge to real-world linguistic problems.

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Program Description:

The BA in Linguistics requires students to complete a foundational course in general introductory linguistics, demonstrate proficiency in an advanced foreign language, and take six core linguistic courses covering the core subfields of linguistics. These subfields include phonetics, syntax, phonology, historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, field methods, and semantics. In addition, students must complete four elective courses in linguistics or related fields, chosen in consultation with a faculty advisor.

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Outline:

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Content and Structure:

The Linguistics curriculum is structured to provide students with a broad foundation in linguistics, while also allowing for specialization in specific areas of interest. The core courses provide a comprehensive overview of the major subfields of linguistics, while the elective courses allow students to tailor their studies to their individual goals.

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Course Schedule:

The program is typically completed in four years of full-time study. Students typically take introductory courses in linguistics, foreign language, and general education requirements in their first two years. Core linguistics courses are typically taken in the third and fourth years, along with elective courses and research projects.

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Individual Modules:

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Core Linguistics Courses:

• General Introductory Linguistics
• Advanced Foreign Language
• Phonetics
• Syntax
• Phonology
• Historical Linguistics
• Sociolinguistics
• Psycholinguistics
• Field Methods
• Semantics

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Elective Linguistics or Related Courses:

Students choose four elective courses in consultation with a faculty advisor, allowing them to explore specialized areas of linguistics or related fields such as:

• Language Acquisition
• Computational Linguistics
• Neurolinguistics
• Anthropological Linguistics
• Language and Culture

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Assessment:

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Assessment Methods:

Students' progress is assessed through a combination of methods, including:

• Exams (midterms, finals, and quizzes)
• Projects (research papers, presentations, and creative works)
• Participation in class discussions and activities
• Oral exams
• Portfolio submissions

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Assessment Criteria:

Assessments are based on the following criteria:

• Accuracy and depth of knowledge of linguistic concepts
• Critical thinking and analytical skills
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Originality and creativity in research and projects
• Engagement and participation in class

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Teaching:

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Teaching Methods:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and to foster active engagement with the material. These methods include:

• Lectures
• Discussions
• Workshops
• Simulations
• Fieldwork
• Research projects

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Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of highly qualified faculty members who are actively engaged in research and scholarship in various areas of linguistics. Faculty members are dedicated to providing students with a supportive and intellectually stimulating learning environment.

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Unique Approaches:

The program offers several unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:

• Opportunities for undergraduate research through internships and independent study projects
• Collaboration with other departments, such as Computer Science and Psychology, to provide interdisciplinary perspectives on language
• A strong emphasis on experiential learning through field methods courses and fieldwork opportunities

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Careers:

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Potential Career Paths:

Graduates with a BA in Linguistics pursue a wide range of careers, including:

• Scientific or scholarly research
• Computing
• Communications
• Law
• Teaching English as a second language
• Foreign service
• Language instruction in the private and public sectors

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Opportunities:

The program prepares students for success in a variety of careers by providing them with:

• Excellent critical thinking and analytical skills
• Strong communication and language proficiency
• A deep understanding of human cognition and behavior
• Cross-cultural competence and global awareness

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Outcomes:

Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in academia, government, industry, and non-profit organizations. Many graduates also pursue advanced degrees in linguistics and related fields.