Why Study Linguistics Concentration
A Master of Arts in English provides advanced training in writing, analysis, and critical
thinking. These skills remain valuable across industries and career paths. Adding
a concentration in Linguistics builds on this foundation by teaching students how
to analyze language as a system, strengthening abilities in pattern recognition, problem-solving,
and data-driven inquiry. This concentration enhances marketability by connecting linguistic
study to areas such as education, publishing, technical and professional writing,
speech-related sciences, and even fields like computational linguistics. The versatility
of these skills not only prepares graduates for academic pathways but also for roles
that demand precision in communication, cross-cultural awareness, and analytical skills.
At APSU, the linguistics concentration draws on faculty expertise in theoretical linguistics,
sociolinguistics, and language acquisition, giving students a well-rounded understanding
of language structure and use. This breadth allows students to engage with both the
scientific study of language and its cultural and educational applications, providing
strong preparation for teaching, research, and professional advancement.
Students who are curious about how language works, enjoy analyzing patterns, or want to connect language study to fields like education, publishing, and technology will benefit from this concentration. Those interested in teaching, pursuing doctoral study, or exploring careers in the linguistics-related professions listed below will find strong preparation here.
Career Prospects:
- Author
- Editor
- Arts Nonprofit/Events Director and Coordinator
- Professional and Technical Writer across industries
- Educator
In the MA in English with a Concentration in Linguistics, students develop their:
- Critical Thinking – by analyzing linguistic data, identifying patterns, and solving complex problems in language structure and use
- Communication – by studying how language functions as a system of communication (through syntax, morphology, phonology, and phonetics) and by presenting clear, evidence-based arguments in writing and discussion
- Equity & Inclusion – by studying dialects, language variation, and the cultural contexts of English, fostering awareness of multiple perspectives
- Professionalism – by developing attention to detail through linguistic analysis, building organizational skills through the demands of coursework, and engaging in professionalization opportunities such as conferences and workshops
Career & Self-Development – by fostering the curiosity that emerges from exploring linguistic questions and by helping students identify strengths, set goals, and pursue continued growth beyond the purview of a traditional MA in English
Admission Requirements
For information related to admission requirements please visit the graduate bulletin.
What will I Learn
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Core concepts of phonetics, phonology, morphology, and syntax, with attention to both theory and application
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How to analyze language patterns using data-driven and problem-solving approaches, and how to communicate those findings clearly in academic and professional contexts
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The social, historical, and cultural dimensions of English dialects and the history of the English language
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Foundational skills for teaching, research, and further graduate study in linguistics and related fields