Course description
NOTE: This course is in phase-out mode and is no longer accepting applications for admisssion.
Current students needing assistance with course planning for completion of the course requirments should contact the Arts & Music Student Centre.
The Linguistics and Applied Linguistics program, housed in the School of Languages and Linguistics, is a leader in its field within Australia, offering a unique array of specialisations in descriptive, theoretical linguistics and applied linguistics, English language and cross-cultural communication. The program provides rigorous theoretical and practical training designed to enhance students' analytical skills and ability to succeed in careers in which clear, independent and creative thinking are essential. These skills are highly valued by employers. Studies have shown that graduates of linguistics and applied linguistics are amongst the most highly paid of all arts graduates.
Teaching and research utilises state-of-the-art technology and innovative multimedia applications. The program has a world-class phonetics laboratory housing specialised digital speech-analysis equipment and software. Digital media and on-line resources are used to analyse linguistic data and investigate a variety of issues in language studies. Students have the opportunity to create their own web site for the publication of research and project-based assessment and are invited to publish articles in the student journal, Melbourne Papers in Linguistics and Applied Linguistics.
Linguistics is the study of language in all its aspects. The major branches of the discipline include semantics, phonetics and phonology, syntax, morphology and sociolinguistics. It provides a methodology for exploring universal or culture-specific ways in which languages of the world are structured and used. Linguistics also involves investigation of language variation over time and between different societies.
Applied linguistics focuses upon the development of policy and professional practice in a range of language-related areas. Drawing on general linguistics as well as areas such as anthropology, sociology and psychology, applied linguistics examines issues such as second language acquisition, language curriculum design and methodology, language testing and assessment, speech pathology and language use in the community.
