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MA Linguistics

Statement of Purpose

The purpose of the linguistics MA program is closely related to the department’s definition of linguistics, which is the scientific study of language. The program aims to prepare the student to become a language professional, prepare to go on to a PhD program if desired, or to go into the world as a competent practitioner of the skills expected of a linguist. A more applied, but popular emphasis in the department is a track that combines linguistics with computer skills. The linguistics curriculum develops such skills as analyzing language in its phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. It also introduces the student to such fields as sociolinguistics, anthropological linguistics, and especially computers and language if the student chooses to take that track.

Prerequisites

  • Ling 330 Introduction to Linguistics (Modern), or equivalent, should be completed before or during the first semester of coursework.
  • Competency in three languages:
    • English (ESL 404 Advanced Composition is prerequisite for all nonnative English speakers; ESL 301 Advanced Academic English, 302 Advanced English Pronunciation if indicated by OPI results. ESL 404 and OPI should be completed before or during the first semester.)
    • Competency in one language other than English* (300 level)
    • At least 12 credit hours (200-level competency) in a second non-English language* or 12 credit hours of approved computer science (C S) or Computers and the Humanities (CHum) courses

*One of the non-English languages must be a non-Germanic and non-Romance language. For a list of Germanic and Romance languages see http://linguistics.byu.edu/langlist.html.

Requirements for Degree

  • Credit hours: 30.
  • Required courses (9 credit hours): Ling 596 Research Design in Linguistics, 690 Seminar in Linguistics; 698R (project) or 699R (thesis).
  • Electives
    • Analytical Core: two courses (6 credit hours) from the following: Ling 521, 535, or 630.
    • Applications Core: two courses (6 credit hours) from the following: Ling 550, 558, 581, or 615.
    • Approved Applications: three courses (9 credit hours) from the following: ELang 522, 525, 529, 623, Ling 540, 545, 551, or other courses approved by the department or the student’s MA advisory committee. (Any of the analytical and applications core courses listed above not selected previously to fill the core requirements can count as electives).
  • Thesis or project.
  • Examination: oral defense of thesis or project (consult department for details).