The study of linguistics focuses on the nature of language itself and on human beings as creators and users of language. This program in SPU’s Department of Languages, Cultures, and Linguistics explores systems of sound and meaning; phrase and sentence structure; linguistic diversity; both first- and second-language acquisition; and language change over time.
Both the major and the minor may be of interest and use to students pursuing studies in a variety of fields including anthropology, global development, global and urban ministries, sociology, and specific languages.
In this program you can prepare yourself to enter a professional field such as translation, teaching, or linguistic research.
Find out more about this department’s mission, vision, and learning outcomes.
The Linguistics and Cultural Studies major features a thorough grounding in general linguistic theory, as well as provides you with an opportunity for work in some more specific subfields (e.g., sociolinguistics, second-language acquisition).
- A minimum 53 credits are required for this major, including 38 upper-division credits.
- It is required that you have a minimum competency through the second-year sequence of a language.
- You must complete all non-credited and language proficiency requirements found here, and on the Languages, Cultures, and Linguistics website.
- This major also offers Cultural Studies courses in a minimum of three different cultures.
- A senior paper is required and is to be presented in conjunction with the Capstone Seminar.
- The study abroad requirement may be fulfilled through the SPU Global Education: Study Abroad programs, including European Quarter, or an approved alternative program.
- Majors in Linguistics and Cultural Studies are required to complete an Oral Proficiency Interview conducted by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages prior to graduation.