If you are 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 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 and 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.

Minor languages available: 

French, Spanish, Modern Standard Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, and Italian (2021 entry only).

Placement options

Students studying a language as a minor subject have the opportunity to apply to spend a period of residence abroad or on a work placement.

Linguistics graduates are able to explore careers in digital subtitling, dubbing, website localising, or even pursue postgraduate study. In recent years, our graduates have gained employment in banking, local government, cultural relations, education, manufacturing and importing.

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.