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The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at Brown University offers students an interdisciplinary exploration of language, examining its structure, function, and role in human communication. The program integrates phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and sociolinguistics, enabling students to analyze language at multiple levels and understand its cognitive, social, and cultural dimensions. Students develop strong analytical and research skills while exploring how language is acquired, processed, and used across diverse communities. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and empirical investigation, preparing students to address complex questions about language, communication, and human interaction.
Through coursework, fieldwork, and research projects, students gain practical experience in language documentation, computational modeling, and experimental analysis. The program encourages exploration of diverse languages and linguistic phenomena, including endangered languages, multilingual societies, and language in technology. Opportunities for independent research, internships, and collaborative projects allow students to apply linguistic theory to real-world problems in education, technology, and communication. Graduates leave the program with critical thinking, research, and communication skills, equipped to pursue careers or advanced study in linguistics, cognitive science, education, and related interdisciplinary fields.
Year 1 – Foundations in Linguistics
• Introduction to Linguistics
• Phonetics and Phonology
• Introduction to Syntax and Semantics
• Academic Writing and Research Methods
Year 2 – Core Linguistic Analysis
• Morphology and Syntax
• Semantics and Pragmatics
• Sociolinguistics and Language Variation
• Quantitative and Qualitative Research Methods
Year 3 – Applied and Interdisciplinary Studies
• Psycholinguistics and Language Acquisition
• Computational Linguistics or Language Technology
• Fieldwork or Language Documentation
• Elective: Neurolinguistics, Sociocultural Studies, or Translation
Year 4 – Capstone and Independent Research
• Senior Seminar in Linguistics
• Independent Research Project or Thesis
• Advanced Topics in Linguistics
• Electives: Bilingualism, Language Policy, or Speech Technology
Graduates of the Linguistics program are prepared for careers that require analytical, research, and communication skills. Alumni work in language technology, computational linguistics, education, translation, publishing, speech and language therapy, and communication research, applying linguistic knowledge to real-world challenges. The program also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in linguistics, cognitive science, education, law, artificial intelligence, or applied language studies, enabling students to specialize further in research, teaching, or technology development. Employers value graduates’ ability to analyze language data, interpret patterns, and communicate effectively, making them highly competitive in both academic and professional settings.
This program offers a rigorous and interdisciplinary education in language structure, function, and analysis, combining theory, empirical research, and practical application. Students benefit from mentorship, fieldwork, and research projects that foster both technical expertise and critical thinking. The curriculum emphasizes data analysis, problem-solving, and cross-cultural understanding, preparing graduates to tackle complex linguistic and communicative challenges in academic, technological, and professional contexts. By developing strong analytical, research, and communication skills, the program equips students with the tools, knowledge, and perspective needed to pursue careers or advanced studies that address language, cognition, and communication in diverse global and interdisciplinary environments.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 401 863 1000
Email: admissions@brown.edu
Address: University of Brown, Providence, RI 02912, United States