Dec 05, 2025  
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog 
    
2025-2026 Western Washington University Catalog

Language and Cognition Minor


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs of Study

Introduction

The Language and Cognition Minor focuses on the interplay between language and the neural processes supporting it. Language and Cognition Minors will learn to use scientific thinking and research skills to generate hypotheses and test predictions about communication and language use, ranging from intelligent systems, including the human mind, to language processing, perception, and action, with applications for information technology and the study of artificial intelligence.

Why Consider a Language and Cognition Minor?

Students who minor in Language and Cognition will expand and enhance their knowledge and understanding of both Linguistics and Cognitive Science.  Moreover, they will acquire technical skills necessary for graduate studies in Computational Linguistics, Linguistics, and Cognitive Science/Neuroscience in addition to employment in various fields within research and technology.

The Language and Cognition Minor can be combined with a Linguistics, BA under advisement.

Student Resources

Department website: Linguistics

Contact information:

Degree Works: Current students should also log on to Degree Works to check student-specific program progress.

Career Services Center: Connect major to a career

Sample careers: Lab Assistant in both Academic and Private Sector(s), Research/Data Analyst in Corporate and Private Sector(s), Lab Technician in Academic/Research setting

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

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

  • LING 201, LING 207, LING 301, or HNRS 217 (or permission of advisor).
  • Minimum cumulative GPA of at least 2.5.

See our website for detailed instructions on how to declare, or reach out to the Linguistics 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.

Requirements (25 credits)


Return to {$returnto_text} Return to: Programs of Study