Career Compass: Linguistics

As a linguistics student in the Faculty of Arts, you will learn about the analysis of speech sounds, the structure of words and sentences, the meanings they transmit, and differences and similarities between spoken and signed languages. The Department of Linguistics has  many areas of study for you to explore. Two of which are: 

1. General (3-year), Advanced Major (4-year) or Honours (4-year): for students wanting to complete a Linguistics degree
2. Clinical and Developmental Linguistics: for students planning to do a master’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Audiology.

Skills you will gain by studying LINGUISTICS

• A knowledge of sound, the structure of words and sentences, and their meanings
• An understanding of the way in which language is used to construct identity, signal resistance, and create art.
• A knowledge of the similarities and differences among the languages of the world including signed languages, minority languages, indigenous languages, and endangered languages.
• The ability to discern the way sounds change, words come and go, and meanings shift
• The ability to think and read critically and assess evidence to understand and develop innovative solutions to complex problems
• The ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing

Use the UM Competencies Framework to reflect on skills gained during your coursework and extracurricular experiences.