Sep 07, 2024  
2024-25 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2024-25 Western Washington University Catalog

Linguistics Minor


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Department of Linguistics, College of Humanities and Social Sciences

25 credits

Introduction

Linguistics, the science of language, is an interdisciplinary field which relates to the diversity of the cultures and languages of the world. It is an integral part of most serious pursuits dealing with aspects of language study and analysis. As the boundaries of the world change, an understanding of individual languages and cultures becomes increasingly important. Communication in this complex society requires knowledge of the workings of languages, as well as their interrelationship with their respective cultures.

Why Consider a Linguistics Minor?

Students who minor in linguistics will significantly advance their appreciation of linguistic and cultural diversity, will acquire valuable intellectual skills, including analytic reasoning and argumentation, and will learn how to study language scientifically.

 Contact Information

Linguistics Chair
Kristin Denham
Bond Hall 418
360-650-3217
Kristin.Denham@wwu.edu

Academic Department Manager
Sara Helms
Bond Hall 418D
360-650-3914
Sara.Helms@wwu.edu

 Sample Careers

Higher Education research and teaching: linguistics, philosophy, psychology, speech sciences, anthropology, computer science, English, modern and classical languages | K-12 Teaching (World Languages, ESL, literacy) | Computer Industry (speech recognition, natural language processing, AI) | Translating and Interpreting | Language documentation and fieldwork | Publishing (editing, writing) | Lexicography (dictionary research and editing) | Law (forensic linguistics)

 Major/Career Resources

careercenter.wwu.edu/connectmajorcareer

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

To declare, a student must be enrolled in or have completed:

  • LING 201 or ANTH 247 or HNRS 217 with a grade of B- or better (or permission of chair).
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.

Students wishing to declare a minor should contact the Linguistics Department Chair or Academic Department Manager.

Grade Requirements

A grade of C- or better is required for a student’s major or minor courses, and supporting courses for majors and minors.
 

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