Through the study and analysis of the diversity of human languages, linguists seek to answer some important questions:

• What distinguishes human language from other forms of communication?
• What features are shared by human languages?
• How are languages related to each other through time and space?
• How can we learn about human cognition through the study of human language?

Linguistics at Cleveland State draws upon strengths in several disciplines throughout the University, including Anthropology, Communication, Education, English, French, Modern Languages, Philosophy, Psychology, Sociology, and Speech and Hearing.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

The study of linguistics provides students with strong analytical skills that can be employed in a variety of careers. Linguistics is a science in that claims about analysis can be objectively tested by bringing in further data to prove or disprove those claims. Linguistics develops logical thinking skills and ways to “formalize” one’s claims, and because of that the major in linguistics is often used as a preparation for the study of law. Advertising, communication, journalism, and editorial work are also career paths that are open to linguistics students. Many students who decide to major in linguistics often pursue graduate work in linguistics or in a closely associated field, such as anthropology, literature, or foreign language study. Linguistics students often become interested in opportunities to teach English in other countries, and an undergraduate degree in linguistics can open the door for such a career.