Minor in Linguistics
Catalog Year: 2025-2026
Banner Code: LA-MINOR-LA-LING
Linguistics is the scientific study of language. Language is studied descriptively, theoretically, computationally, psychologically, and as a social phenomenon. The field of linguistics thus informs and is informed by many other areas of study, including philosophy, psychology, sociology, computer science, the study of individual languages and literature, literary studies, and education.
This minor introduces the fundamental concepts of modern linguistic theory and explores how these concepts relate to various other disciplines.
Faculty
Blevins, Foltz, Kelley, Leeman, Lukyanenko, Roman-Mendoza, Schreiner (director), Serafini, Walther, Wulf
The University Catalog is the authoritative source for information on program requirements and courses. The Schedule of Classes is the authoritative source for information on classes scheduled for this semester. See the Schedule for the most up-to-date information and see Patriot web to register for classes. Requirements may be different for earlier catalog years. See the University Catalog archives.
Policies
Eight credits of coursework must be unique to the minor and students must complete all coursework with a minimum GPA of 2.00. For policies governing all minors, see AP.5.3.4 Minors.
Minor Requirements
Total credits: 15
Students should be aware of the specific policies associated with this program, located on the Admissions & Policies tab.
Foundation Course
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select one from the following: | 3 | |
| Linguistic Variation | ||
| Introduction to Linguistic Analysis (Mason Core) | ||
| Total Credits | 3 | |
Core Course
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select one from the following: | 3 | |
| Phonetics | ||
| Phonology A | ||
| Phonology B | ||
| Morphology | ||
| Syntax A | ||
| Syntax B | ||
| Semantics and Pragmatics | ||
| Total Credits | 3 | |
Electives and Experiential Learning
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Experiential Learning | ||
| LING 495 | Laboratory Research Experience (may be repeated with approval) | 0-6 |
| Electives | ||
| Select one to three from the following: 1 | 3-9 | |
| Introduction to Cultural Anthropology (Mason Core) | ||
| Foundations of Intercultural Communication (Mason Core) | ||
| Topics in the Sociopolitics of Language | ||
| Multilingualism, Identity, and Power (Mason Core) | ||
| Total Credits | 9 | |
- 1
Other elective courses, when topic is relevant, may be applied to the minor with the prior written approval of the director.