Bachelor of Arts - Linguistics - Language, Culture, and Society

Language is one of the main tools used by human beings to create and perform cultural and social identities and practices. Linguistics is the scientific study of language and offers students the opportunity to inquire about both the structure and function of language. The field of linguistics draws on a wide area of inquiry, including the investigation of the ways that languages change over time, descriptions of the ways in which language functions as a part of cultures, considerations of the interrelatedness of language and thought, the examination of the process of language acquisition, and the analysis of the functioning of the brain and the vocal organs in the production and analysis of speech.

The Linguistics Major at California State University San Marcos provides students with a comprehensive study of the core areas of linguistics and the opportunity to specialize in one of three areas: Language, Culture, and Society; Speech and Language Sciences; and Language Studies. The core curriculum is designed to give them a strong foundation in the general study of linguistics, while the specialization options allow them the opportunity to focus on their linguistics study in an area that aligns with their interests as well as prepares them for future graduate work or careers.

The Language, Culture, and Society Concentration provides students with a solid grounding in the core fields of linguistics, coupled with an exploration of the many ways in which language is implicated in the construction and practice of all cultures. They will deepen their understanding of the connection between language and culture through classes which offer a linguistic lens on these processes. Classes from related disciplines offer a wider range of perspectives from which to view and understand the interconnection of language, culture, and society. Language, Culture, and Society majors are encouraged to participate in California State University San Marcos's Study Abroad Program.