BA Linguistics

Programme Code: Q100 BA/LG

Start of programme: September

Mode of Attendance: Full-time

Modern linguistics is the scientific study of all aspects of the world’s languages from their sound systems and grammatical structure through to the interaction of language with culture, the study of meaning in language, and the use of language in modern technology. Linguists try to establish what types of structures are shared by different languages and the extent to which languages may differ from each other.

BA Linguistics is designed to develop a comprehensive understanding of the way that languages are universally structured and trains students to master all the basic skills necessary for the analysis of different sound systems and semantics (the study of meaning in language). In addition, students may also take modules dealing with language and social communication (focusing on the interaction of language and social groups), morphology (the structure of words), historical linguistics (the historical development of languages), phonetics and the structure of an African or Asian language.

Linguistics can be taken as a single-subject BA degree or a combined subject degree. In the single subject degree, students primarily study linguistics, with the option of taking up to three non-linguistic modules in other departments.

In linguistics, the introductory modules introduce key concepts in semantics, syntax, phonology and phonetics, and lay the foundation for work in succeeding years when intermediate, advanced and more specialised optional modules are available. Among the introductory modules in linguistics, Introduction to Phonology and Introduction to Grammatical Structure are core modules (i.e. modules which students must satisfactorily complete and pass in the summer examinations before being permitted to proceed to the next year of their degree). Compulsory modules are obligatory.

All BA Students take 120 credits each year. Over the course of the degree, single-subject degree students take a minimum of 270 credits in linguistics and combined subject degree students take a minimum of 150 credits in linguistics.

Year 1

Core Modules

Core modules must be passed in order to proceed to the following year of study.

Open Option - Language Only

Choose a language open option at an appropriate level to the value of 30 credits

Year 2

Core Modules

Core modules must be passed in order to proceed to the following year of study.

Other Modules

Students choose modules to the value of 45 credits from List A.

Open Option

Students can choose an open option to the value of 30 credits.

Year 3

Compulsory Modules

Choose modules to the value of 30 credits from the following options. You may choose more.

Optional Modules

Students choose modules to the value of 60 credits from List A or B.

Open Option

Students can choose an open option to the value of 30 credits.

List A (modules for year 2 or 3)

NB: Language in Africa is also available in year 1; available in year 3 only by permission of the Associate Dean Learning & Teaching.

List B (modules for year 3 only)

Programme Specification

• BA Linguistics - Programme Specifications 2014/15 (msword; 187kb)

Disclaimer

Teaching & Learning

Each module generally involves a 2-hour lecture and a tutorial, a 1-hour small-group discussion class each week. The tutorial is intended for further discussion of points made in the lecture and for the development of linguistic problem-solving skills.

Assessment varies according to the nature of the module. Introductory modules are assessed in the end of year exams in May/June. Other modules may involve written examinations, practical tests, coursework, essays or a combination of these.

SOAS Library

SOAS Library is one of the world's most important academic libraries for the study of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, attracting scholars from all over the world. The Library houses over 1.2 million volumes, together with significant archival holdings, special collections and a growing network of electronic resources.

Tuition Fees

Full details of undergraduate tuition fees can be found on the Registry's Undergraduate Tuition Fees page.

Fees for 2017/18 entrants. The fees below are per academic year. Please note that fees go up each year. 

Scholarships

For further details and information on external scholarships visit the Scholarships section

SOAS BA Linguistics students gain the ability to engage in analytical thought, to carry out research-like work on unfamiliar data and to control and understand the use of language. Graduates leave SOAS not only with linguistic and cultural expertise, but also with a portfolio of widely transferable skills which employers seek in many professional and management careers, both in business and in the public sector. These include written and oral communication skills, attention to detail,analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to research, amass and order information from a variety of sources.

For more information about Graduate Destinations from this department, please visit the Careers Service website.

• How to Apply
• UCAS website
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