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Linguistics: Languages, Literatures and Cultures, B.A.

College of Arts and Sciences

Take your study of language further by examining it from a scientific and cultural perspective. This degree concentration complements a wide variety of disciplines and careers.

In addition to learning a language, linguistics students study the structure and evolution of language, as well as how language and society shape each other. By mastering skills in critical thinking, collaboration and communication, linguistics majors go on to careers in research, law, teaching, publishing, international relations and technology.

Program Highlights

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    Global Focus

    Pursue the study of languages and cultural understanding, and be prepared to work in the global economy.

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    Research Skills

    Conduct research with faculty members, with the option of writing a thesis to gain experience in data analysis.

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    Strong Foundation

    Gain broad exposure to language and its subspecializations, historical linguistics, sociolinguistics and second-language acquisition.

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    Supportive Program

    Form close mentoring relationships with faculty members, and choose courses that are tailored to your individual interests.

What You’ll Study

In addition to advanced study in one foreign language, take courses about the evolution of languages, the relationship between society and language, second language acquisition and teaching, psycholinguistics, semantics and more. Develop analytical skills and a creative, critical approach to data, language models and theories.

Building Skills

Gain the professional and personal intelligence it takes to have a successful career.

  • Communication

    Exchanging information and ideas through speaking, writing or other means of expression

    Empathy

    Understanding and sharing the feelings of others, and demonstrating compassion and support

    Critical Thinking

    Analyzing and evaluating information to make informed decisions or judgments

  • Intercultural Competence

    Developing the skills to communicate effectively and work collaboratively across cultures

    Research

    Gathering and analyzing information to increase knowledge or solve problems

    Writing

    Creating professional written content for inclusion in scholarly journal articles, books and reports

Using your degree

Make your college experience the foundation for a successful future.

Potential Careers

  • Educator
  • Writer
  • Researcher
  • Editor
  • Lawyer

Workplace Settings

  • International Relations
  • Education
  • Business
  • Nonprofits
  • Law

Is USC Right For You?

There are many reasons we could be your ideal university. There's the award-winning academics, the globally modeled student life, and abundance of study abroad and experiential learning options. Take a closer look at what USC could mean for you.

Degree content is provided for informational purposes only. The Academic Bulletin is the source of record for all degree information.
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