FAQ

Q: I’m interested in Linguistics, but I’m not sure where to start.
A: That’s great! The department of Linguistics offers a great introductory course in Linguistics called Introduction to the Study of Language (01:615:101), which offers a great insight into the field of Linguistics. You can also check out the Linguistic Society of America’s informative brochure on studying Linguistics as a major.

Q: I have taken Introduction to the Study of Language (01:615:101) and/or Introduction to Linguistic Theory (01:615:201) and I really would like to major/minor in Linguistics. How can I do this?
A: In order to declare a major or minor in Linguistics, every student must fill out a form through the department. You must fill out this form before declaring your major in Linguistics. In order to be accepted as a major or a minor in Linguistics, you must pass Introduction to Linguistic Theory with a C or better. Try to submit your form to declare as soon as possible, as the Linguistics program is a popular program and the classes fill up quickly.

Q: I would like to register for Introduction to Linguistic Theory (01:615:201) but the class is already filled up. How can I get into the course?
A: The course fills up very quickly, so try and sign up as soon as you can. If it is closed, you might be able to obtain a special permission number for the course from the instructor. In order to do this, you must attend the first day of the course. No special permission numbers are given out before the first day of classes.

Q: I’m trying to sign up for an upper level course, but I'm not able to register without a special permission number. How can I enroll in these courses?
A: The department is very organized with enrollment, which ensures fairness for the students. In order to enroll for 300- and 400- courses, you must have first taken Introduction to Linguistic Theory (01:615:201). You must also have spoken with the Undergraduate Program Director and created a course plan. These course plans are tailored for you by the Undergraduate Program Director and yourself. Once you have a course plan, you will be assigned special permission numbers for the courses you will be taking.

Q: I have an issue with my course plan and I need to change it. Who can help me with this?
A: if there’s an issue with conflicting course times, and/or if there is an emergency or special circumstance that has come up, please contact the Undergraduate Program Director as soon as you can. This way, we can ensure that your course plan is modified so as to minimize any complications. Any changes to your course plan cannot be made without approval from the Undergraduate Program Director, so please contact them explaining your situation. Unscheduled visits to the department regarding your course plan or registration for courses will not result in any changes to your course plan.

Q: I contacted the Undergraduate Program Director but haven’t received an answer. What can I do?
A: The Undergraduate Director deals with many students on a day-to-day basis, so please be patient. The Undergraduate Program Director will get to your email and respond appropriately as soon as they get to it. The Undergraduate Program Director does have office hours, but they are by appointment. You must This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. in order to schedule an appointment. No unscheduled visits will be solicited.

Q: What courses do I need to take in order to major or minor in Linguistics?
A: The requirements can be found on the Major/Minor page. The Undergraduate Program Director will help you choose what courses you’ll be taking in order to successfully complete the major or minor in Linguistics. There is also an undergraduate handbook that you can take a look at for more information regarding the Major/Minor in Linguistics. The undergraduate handbook is located on the Sakai site for Linguistics students.

Q: I’m taking a non-Linguistics course that I think might count for the major or minor. How can I find out if it does count towards the major or minor?
A: Check out our Approved Courses from Outside Linguistics page and see if your course is on there. If it is, contact the Undergraduate Program Director and they will work with you to implement it into your course plan. Please keep in mind that only three courses outside of the department will count towards the major and only one will count towards the minor. There is also an undergraduate handbook that you can take a look at for more information regarding the Major/Minor in Linguistics. The undergraduate handbook is located on the Sakai site for Linguistics students.

Q: I want to get involved with Linguistics outside of the classroom. What can I do?
A: We offer many opportunities in research with Linguistics. Check out our research lab page for more information. We also have an Undergraduate Linguistics Club that you can get involved in. Check out the News & Events page for upcoming talks and colloquia that you can attend as well.