Online Degree Programs in Linguistics

The study of languages and language development is the main focus of a course of study in linguistics. Those students that complete the program will gain experience in the historical development of linguistics as well as modern needs and niches for the study of language. Linguistics may also focus on areas of language development such as learning a second language, how languages change over time and cultures, and the thought process or cognition behind languages. Students that plan to enter the program of study should have an interest in both the cultural, historical and modern development of language and how it impacts on daily living in the various cultures within an area.

Students completing the courses of study in linguistics either through a bachelor, master or certificate program can expect to complete courses in phonetics and phonology, historical languages, endangered modern languages, syntax, semantics, psycholinguistics and cultural and social aspects of language and linguistics. Depending on the student's level of training and interest in a given area it is possible to focus more on the practical applications of linguistics or more on the psychological aspects on the study of language. Most basic programs will provide introductory information on both aspects but master level programs will allow students to specialize in these areas of study.

Graduates from linguistic programs can expect to find employment as researchers, teachers or consultants. Often law enforcement agencies hire linguists as do all federal investigation agencies, usually when combined with a knowledge of psycholinguistics. Those graduates with advanced level linguistic degrees may work as speech and language therapists, consultants or researchers, cognitive science specialists or even individuals working with computer technologies to enhance voice recognition or hearing or speaking programs for individuals with disabilities.