DEV SITE ..48

Languages / Linguistics

We live in a globalised world where only about 7% of the world’s population are native English speakers. Every career and activity in our lives involve language in some way which makes linguistics (the scientific study of language) an important field of study.

It is more common to study languages abroad for a shorter period of time, than undertaking an entire degree in languages abroad, and to combine language studies with another key subject. For example, a Bachelor of Arts (International) which typically includes one year’s study in the country where the language of study is the native language. Others combine language studies with Business, International Relations or Law for example.

The content and focus of language and linguistic degrees will vary between different institutions, but in essence, most language degrees will focus on improving fluency and the ability to read, write and speak in the chosen language, and may also cover the history and literature of the associated country/ies.

Think outside the box! If you want to study Spanish then Spain may be the obvious choice, but you can also go to top universities in Latin America and the US to study Spanish! Likewise, France is a popular destination if you want to study French, but Belgium or Canada are also great options!

University rankings by subject for Linguistics (QS ranking, 2019):

  1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), US
  2. University of Massachusetts, US
  3. University of Maryland, US
  4. The University of Edinburgh, UK
  5. University of Harvard, US
Close