Linguistics

Learn about theory and practice in the study of language and how human languages are structured and used with a degree in Linguistics. Discover patterns for how words are created, how sounds are combined to create meanings, how sentences are formed, and how speakers use language to communicate meaning. Through your studies in Linguistics at Iowa State University, you will explore topics including the sounds and grammar of language, languages of the world, computational analysis of language, and language teaching.

General requirements

In addition to general education course requirements in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences (LAS), all Linguistics majors must complete at least 36 credits of coursework in specific Linguistics classes, and 12 additional credits in Linguistics or English are also required. Students should discuss these choices with their advisor before registering.

Minors and K-12 endorsement

Students interested in a minor in the study of linguistics can choose from either a Linguistics minor or a minor in the Teaching of English as Second Language (TESL).

K-12 endorsement

The ESL endorsement is at least 18 hours of specified coursework in areas related to the teaching of English as a Second Language in addition to meeting the other requirements for basic education and professional educational courses. Iowa State University requires 21 credit hours in ESL.

Our mission is to provide a top quality program for students preparing to teach English as a Second Language (ESL) in the public schools of Iowa. The growing number of English language learners (ELLs) nationwide makes the ESL endorsement a useful addition to an endorsement in elementary education or middle and high school content areas (e.g., English, Spanish, science). This program is also useful for students who wish to teach English abroad in programs such as the Peace Corps.

At Iowa State University, ESL is an add-on endorsement, which means that students need to be certified in another area and to take all basic teacher preparation courses. Courses, in accordance with state requirements and the professional standards of TESOL, are designed to give students a framework in linguistics applied to second language education with appropriate methods and practice teaching. For further information, view our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) or contact Samantha Robinson-Adams, ESL Endorsement Coordinator.

Experiences

Students at Iowa State University can tailor their experience to make sure they gain valuable skills for the future.

A wide variety of student organizations and clubs such as the Linguistics Club, a club open to Linguistics majors, minors, and all language lovers from Iowa State University, are available for students to join—including academic, honor societies, political & activism, intramural sports and Greek life.

Gain leadership and service experience through the Student Activities Center, go to one of the many fun campus events like the Cyclone Carnival, or learn more about clubs and activities at the annual ClubFest to see the many ways you can get involved during your time at Iowa State.

Students from every background can apply for departmental scholarships once a year to help fund their education and better focus on what’s important – the experience.

A career in the making

A degree in linguistics opens doors to a diverse range of career opportunities across various industries. Some possible careers for linguistic majors include:

• Language teacher
• Speech-language pathologist
• Translator and interpreter
• Natural language processing engineer
• Forensic linguist
• Corporate communicator
• Academic researcher
• Lexicographer