Linguistics
Program Director: F. Morelli
Core faculty and advisors: P. Ivanov, T. King, F. Morelli
ASL faculty: N. Wheeler
Affiliated faculty: D. Ferhatovic, E. Kuder, L. Little, M. Lizarralde
Linguistics is the scientific study of human language. It investigates the subconscious and systematic knowledge that users of a language possess. Such knowledge enables them to
communicate, and engage in other mental processes involving language efficiently and effortlessly. Linguists also study how this subconscious knowledge is acquired and how it is put to use in social contexts.
Studying linguistics provides a rich and multifaceted understanding of how language works and its role in human society, while also developing transferable analytical skills that can be applied in many fields.
The minor’s aim is to nurture in students an appreciation for what language is from a scientific point of view—its structure, diversity, acquisition, and use. Lying at the intersection of the humanities, social sciences, and behavioral sciences, linguistics is a vital component of a liberal arts education, and the minor is a perfect addition to any majors in these fields.
Linguistics Courses
American Sign Language Courses