Linguistics, Minor

Linguistics is the scientific study of language. Linguists apply the scientific method to study speech sounds, grammatical structures, and meaning across the world’s 6,000+ languages. The study of language is reflected in several things we do in our daily lives, such as telling a joke, using voice recognition software, achieving native-like proficiency in another language, etc. The Saint Louis University linguistics minor allows students to gain insight into one of the most fundamental parts of being human — the ability to communicate through language. Studying linguistics enables SLU students to understand how language works, how it is acquired, how it is used in society, and how it changes over time. 

Because linguistics is a social science and inherently an interdisciplinary field, it intersects with many other areas, such as anthropology, communication, computer science, data science, engineering, English, foreign language study, forensic science, law, immigration, neuroscience, philosophy, psychology, sociology, speech and hearing science, among others. As a result, linguistics can provide the foundation for many jobs and careers, including well-paying positions at tech companies, financial institutions, the government, hospitals, publishing houses, academia, etc.

Students must complete a minimum total of 18 credits for the minor.

Continuation Requirements

Students are required to earn a grade of "C" or better in each required course. Students who do not achieve the "C" or better grade in a required course will be expected to repeat the course in an attempt to achieve the "C" or better grade. Students may repeat a required course one time. Failure to achieve the "C" or better grade after one repeat attempt will have the student dismissed from the Linguistics Minor program.

For additional information about this program, please contact languages@slu.edu or call 314-977-2617.