Undergraduate Program

Major Requirements

The linguistics major requires a total of ten courses. All majors must take our five core courses. Students must also take five additional electives, at least three of which must be at the 200-level or above. Four of these electives must fit into either a pre-approved track or a specialized track arranged with the undergraduate advisor. Suggested tracks are listed below.

Declaring the Major

If you are thinking of declaring a major in linguistics, please contact the Undergraduate Advisor for the Department of Linguistics, Professor Asia Pietraszko (j.a.pietraszko@rochester.edu), who will help you design a course plan that meets all the major's course requirements. You should do this before submitting your major declaration application.

Core Courses

Suggested Tracks

Students are encouraged to choose one of the 5 thematic tracks suggested below. Alternatively, students may propose a track organized around a different theme. Individualized tracks must be consulted with and approved by the undergraduate advisor, Professor Asia Pietraszko.

1. Linguistic Theory

The Linguistic Theory track dives deep into the core principles that govern language structure and use. It focuses on the study of morphology, phonology, syntax, and semantics, providing a comprehensive framework for analyzing linguistic data. This track is ideal for students interested in understanding the formal properties of language and is recommended for those considering graduate study in linguistics.

2. Language Documentation and Description

The Language Documentation and Description track emphasizes the importance of preserving linguistic diversity. It combines theoretical insights with practical skills in documenting languages, particularly those at risk of disappearing. Courses cover the relationship between language and culture, the analysis of language structures, and fieldwork methods, equipping students with the tools needed for effective language preservation efforts.

3. Language Variation and Change

The Language Variation and Change track explores how languages evolve over time and differ across social groups. It includes courses on social identity, historical linguistics, and the dynamics of phonetics and phonology. This track is designed for students interested in sociolinguistics and the historical development of languages, providing insight into the factors that drive linguistic diversity.

4. Computational Linguistics

The Computational Linguistics track integrates linguistics with computer science, focusing on the analysis and processing of natural language using computational methods. Students will learn about statistical methods, natural language processing, and machine learning techniques applied to language data. This track is perfect for those who want to work at the intersection of language and technology, opening pathways to careers in AI and data science.

5. Language and the Mind

The Language and the Mind track examines the psychological and philosophical aspects of language, exploring how we understand, produce, and process language. It includes courses in semantics, pragmatics, and the philosophy of language, offering a deep dive into the cognitive mechanisms underlying linguistic behavior. This track is ideal for students interested in the relationship between language, thought, and cognition.

Upper Level Writing

All Linguistics majors must take two linguistics W courses to satisfy the Upper Level Writing (ULW) requirement of the major. The current offerings include: