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About the Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics

Why Study Linguistics at Cedarville?

Cedarville’s distinctly Christian B.A. in linguistics degree will give you in-depth study into all aspects of human language. Linguistics, the science of language, is the third “pillar” of modern language studies, standing alongside languages and literature.

At Cedarville, you will study linguistics through theoretical and practical coursework with practical concentrations that will prepare you for a vocation related to language and culture, including civil service, missions (including language learning, Bible translation, and literacy), or international business.

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What Sets Cedarville Apart?

Program Overview

Program Highlights

Thorough — The program in linguistics combines theoretical exploration of language with practical application.

Customizable — You can choose a concentration area that fits with your vocational goals. Choose from:

  • Biblical Languages and Philosophy
  • Computer Science
  • Cultural Studies
  • Education and Psychology
  • English and Writing
  • Global Engagement
  • Information Technology
  • Mathematics
  • Modern Languages
  • TESOL

Practical — The choice of concentration area provides students with vocational preparation in fields such as computer science, information technology, cultural studies, education, writing, or teaching English as a second language.

Biblical — Your program will be taught from a biblical worldview, using biblical principles that undergird language work as a unique competence of human behavior. You will be well prepared for further studies to prepare you for work in the U.S. or overseas, such as civil service, missions (including language learning, Bible translation, and literacy), or international business.

What Can You Do With a Linguistics Degree?

With a degree in linguistics, you can pursue a career in the following fields:

  • Advertising
  • Assessment
  • Computer industry
  • Education
  • Government
  • Language documentation
  • Law
  • Medicine
  • Publishing
  • Teaching ESL (in the U.S. and abroad)
  • Theatre

Additionally, a B.A. in linguistics will prepare you for graduate study in fields as broad as law, speech therapy, forensics, and modern language education.

Opportunities to Learn Outside the Classroom

You will have multiple opportunities during your four-year program of study to increase proficiency in a language other than your native language, to see linguists in action, to participate in research, and to develop, practice, and hone skills related to languages.

Capstone Experience — You will conclude your coursework by designing language-related research and writing a publishable paper.

Internships — You will have an opportunity to gain real-world experience during an internship traveling overseas to teach English or conduct language surveys.

Student Organizations — You can join one of our student organizations that combine social interaction and language-related events.

  • Linguistics Club — The Linguistics Club meets regularly for activities that enhance practical usage of linguistics, such as a visit to the linguistics experimentation lab at COSI museum in Columbus, and a look into the internships they offer or the TESOL Symposium, hosted by the club.
  • French Club — The French Club meets regularly at la Table de Français to practice speaking French outside the classroom. They also participate in culturally relevant activities, such as visiting a French-speaking church in Columbus, participating in French dinners, and fellowship and worship in French.
  • German Club — The German Club hosts a weekly Stammtisch in the dining hall where club members, friends, and faculty can meet to practice their German language skills and discuss current issues related to Germanic culture.
  • Spanish Club — The Spanish Club meets regularly to practice conversational Spanish. They participate in cultural activities, including ministry to local Hispanic churches, and host an annual Noche de Alabanza open to the entire student body.

Program Curriculum

Building on your core liberal arts and Bible minor courses, you will take a combination of courses from the linguistics core, language study, and courses from your chosen concentration area.

This major is offered with a bachelor's-to-master's accelerated completion plan.

Sample courses:

  • Advanced Linguistics/Field Methods
  • Linguistics for Language Learning

CUinClass

The CUinClass video project was originally filmed during the COVID-19 pandemic to allow virtual visitors to experience Cedarville classes, While students no longer wear masks and guests are welcomed in person, these on-demand videos still provide a great opportunity to hear from our professors and experience academics at Cedarville. View a class that interests you now!

Program Format and Related Programs

Cedarville offers both graduate and undergraduate programs, with flexible completion options. You may also want to consider these related programs as you consider the degree or program that is a best fit for you.

Program Level and Format

  • Undergraduate
  • Residential
  • 4-Year
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From Our Students:

  • The ELML department has been a major force in forming my critical thinking skills. Professors in this department encourage students to reach beyond their current worldview, resulting in better understanding of current events in light of timeless literature. This department thoroughly prepared me for success during my internship in Washington, D.C., where companies sought after high-level readers and critical thinkers to improve their overall quality and professionalism.
    Julia Schultz ’21, Department of English, Literature, and Modern Languages
    Julia Schultz
Job and Grad School Placement

Program Faculty

Department of English, Literature, and Modern Languages

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