

The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics (Honors) at University of Stanford offers an in-depth exploration of the scientific study of language, its structure, function, and social impact. In the first year, students establish a strong foundation in phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics, and basic research methods in linguistics. These courses develop analytical thinking, research skills, critical evaluation, and problem-solving abilities, enabling students to understand the principles underlying language patterns and communication. Through lectures, hands-on linguistic analysis, and laboratory exercises, learners gain practical experience in examining spoken and written language across diverse contexts.
As students progress, the curriculum emphasizes advanced topics such as language acquisition, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, computational linguistics, and fieldwork-based research. Independent projects, seminars, and honors work refine students’ research methodology, analytical skills, critical reasoning, and applied problem-solving abilities. The honors curriculum encourages students to engage in original research, linguistic experimentation, and data-driven analysis. By graduation, students are prepared for careers in academia, education, computational linguistics, translation, language policy, or advanced graduate study in linguistics, cognitive science, or related fields.
Year 1 – Foundations in Linguistics
• Introduction to Linguistics and Language Structure
• Phonetics and Phonology
• Syntax and Semantics
• Writing and Research in Language Studies
• Language and Society
Year 2 – Core Linguistics Studies
• Morphology and Syntax Analysis
• Sociolinguistics and Language Variation
• Psycholinguistics and Cognitive Linguistics
• Electives in Language Studies or Related Fields
• Seminar: Research Methods in Linguistics
Year 3 – Advanced Applications
• Computational Linguistics and Language Modeling
• Language Acquisition and Bilingualism
• Fieldwork and Experimental Methods
• Independent Research Projects
• Electives in Advanced Linguistics Topics
Year 4 – Capstone and Honors Project
• Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
• Advanced Seminar in Linguistics
• Applied Research and Data Analysis
• Specialized Electives in Linguistics
• Presentation and Academic Portfolio Development
Graduates of this program are prepared for careers in academia, education, computational linguistics, translation, language policy, and research. The curriculum develops research proficiency, analytical reasoning, critical thinking, and communication skills, enabling students to pursue roles as linguists, language analysts, computational linguists, translators, language consultants, or researchers. Independent projects, fieldwork, and honors research provide practical experience, while advanced coursework strengthens preparation for graduate study or specialized professional paths. Graduates leave ready to analyze language systems, solve linguistic problems, and contribute to research and policy initiatives in diverse linguistic contexts.
This program is ideal for students who wish to explore the scientific study of language through a research-focused and honors curriculum. Its structure emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, analytical proficiency, and applied problem-solving, providing students with both theoretical insight and practical experience. Through seminars, independent research, fieldwork, and advanced electives, learners develop the expertise to investigate language structure, acquisition, variation, and computational modeling. Graduates leave with the knowledge, confidence, and professional readiness to pursue careers in linguistics, education, computational research, translation, or advanced academic study.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 650 000 0000
Email: admissions@standord.edu
Address: University of Standord, 450 Serra Mall, Stanford, CA 94305, United States