Linguistics and English Language

Linguistics

Linguistics explores how language works. It describes how we create meaning through:

• sounds

• words

• sentences

• conversations

It also studies:

• the uses of language in everyday life

• ways in which language varies across society and evolves over time

• how language is mastered by children

Linguistics has a long history at the University of Edinburgh, and our teaching staff have an excellent reputation for research in this area.

English Language

Using techniques from modern linguistics, you will analyse the structure of written and spoken English and explore how the language has changed in the course of its history.

As well as the study of change in English, we have a strong tradition of investigating variations of the language, including:

• Scots

• distinct dialects of English

• international variations

You will study modern-day English and Scots and identify the similarities and differences between English and other languages.

Programme benefits

• We have one of the largest concentrations of university language scientists in the UK. We have over 350 students currently studying linguistics or English language.

• You will find an intellectual and welcoming community offering you a wide choice of courses and the chance to develop your skills in a supportive environment.

• We are a leading centre for the study of language change and historical linguistics.

• Linguistics has a long history at the University of Edinburgh, and our teaching staff have an excellent reputation for research in this area.

• Linguistics is a new subject for nearly all undergraduates, so you will not need any prior knowledge at the beginning of the programme.**