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About the BA in Linguistics Degree

Why Study Linguistics at Cedarville?

Linguistics, the science of language, is the third pillar of modern language studies, standing alongside languages and literature. In Cedarville's linguistics program, you'll explore all aspects of human language through comprehensive study. Depending on your unique career goals, you'll choose one of the following concentrations: biblical languages and philosophy, computer science, cultural studies, education and psychology, english and writing, global engagement, information technology, mathematics, modern languages, or TESOL.

At Cedarville, you will study linguistics through both theoretical and practical coursework, preparing you for a vocation related to language and culture — whether that's in civil service, international business, or missions (including language learning, Bible translation, and literacy). You'll graduate not only with a linguistics degree, but also with the skills needed to be successful and reflect Christ through your life and career.

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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.

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What Can You Do With an ELML Degree?

Graduates from Cedarville's English, Literature, and Modern Languages Department share how their degrees have prepared them for their chosen career and to serve others.

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Study Abroad

Hands-on training is possible through overseas internships and local work with immigrants and refugees. Cedarville can give you the tools and perspectives you will need to minister in a variety of cultural contexts, whether in the U.S. or abroad.

Placement Success

We’re proud of our successful graduates! 95.8% of recent graduates from the Department of English, Literature, and Modern Languages were employed or in graduate school within six months of graduation. Check out Cedarville’s other placement rates.

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
  • Publishing
  • Theatre

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

Graduate and professional programs and employers welcome Cedarville University graduates each year. It is important to note that some professional career fields you may pursue require additional education, experience, and/or licensure beyond the completion of your Cedarville University undergraduate degree.

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 offers an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's pathway for students interested in pursuing their MBA.

Sample courses:

  • Advanced Linguistics/Field Methods
  • Linguistics for Language Learning

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:

Job and Grad School Placement

Program Faculty

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Merideth Pitts, PhD

Assistant Professor of Linguistics

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Robert Waller, PhD

Assistant Professor of French and Applied Linguistics

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Elizabeth Wright

Assistant Professor of Linguistics

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Program News