Language and Linguistics University of Aberdeen

Overview

At a Glance

Language is the very essence of what makes us human, setting us apart from all other species. Linguistics helps us analyse, discuss and model this fascinating human attribute so that we understand ourselves and human societies more fully.

You will explore how languages evolve over time, how the brain processes speech and language, social factors and different dialects of English, how we learn second languages and much more.

This is a fast-moving field. Our understanding of language grows all the time with new discoveries in neuroscience, animal behaviour, archaeology and palaeontology, sociology and psychology and new applications of linguistics theory in industry, medicine, and forensic science emerge year on year.

The knowledge and skills you’ll develop will make you very attractive to employers, especially if you choose a career in the media, advertising and marketing, information and communication technology, publishing, language teaching and health-related professions such as speech and language therapy or work with blind or deaf people.

You will enjoy all the benefits of learning and living in our friendly and vibrant international community, on our beautiful campus with great facilities for learning, sports and leisure and many opportunities to develop the extra skills to boost your employability and to broaden your horizons through studying abroad.

Careers

The Language and Linguistics programme of the University of Aberdeen is an avenue to a wide variety of careers. The department places a strong emphasis on applied learning and the analytical, practical, oral and written skills that you will develop during your studies are highly esteemed by prospective employers. Previous graduates have gone on to study at postgraduate level, whereas others now work in a variety of careers, such as speech and language therapy, English and Foreign Language teaching, publishing, journalism and broadcasting.