If you're interested in the way in which we communicate and how it can influence people, studying linguistics will help you unravel how language is inextricably linked to who we are. Linguistics is a popular course taken on its own or in combination with English or a modern language. It is devoted to the scientific study of natural language and concerned with how languages evolve, are structured and what they have in common. It also studies how languages are acquired and used.

Our programme enables you to develop a sound knowledge of both theoretical and applied perspectives. It places emphasis on English, with examples from other languages where appropriate. The core elements of the course teach you about sentence structure (syntax), meaning (semantics and pragmatics), forensic linguistics, and phonetics and phonology. You will also learn about language use and variation in different social contexts, the media, and intercultural settings. Communicating effectively, critical thinking and developing rigorous analytical skills are valuable assets in the job market and are transferable to various professions.

In French, emphasis is placed on communicating effectively and developing transferable skills such as translating, interpreting, and interview techniques and the practical language classes embrace speaking, listening, reading and writing.

If you take French as a major or equal subject you will have the opportunity to spend your third year abroad in France. If French is your minor subject, the course will be three years with no study abroad.

Placement options

If French is your major or equal subject, you will have the opportunity to spend year 3 studying in France and we will assist you in choosing from a wide choice of partner universities where you can study.

A language-focused degree allows you to learn many transferable skills that can be used in a multitude of jobs.

Teaching, translation and interpreting are a popular pathway, but languages graduates are also sought after in many different industries, with recent graduates being offered positions in a variety of different sectors both in the UK and abroad. 

There is also the opportunity to engage in further study and professional training, for example some of our graduates go on to join our Postgraduate Linguistics Network, with three courses available in:

• MA TESOL and Applied Linguistics
• MA Linguistics and English Language
• MA Linguistics and English Studies

Taught by research-active academics, all of our courses will equip you with the valuable communication skills needed to work in culturally diverse environments.