Majors and Minor

The majors described below are of two types:

  • A major which concentrates entirely on general linguistics
  • Several majors which combine the basic courses of the general program with a language concentration or other related fields.

The combined majors, in conjunction with instructional certification programs, are especially appropriate for students who have non-university teaching careers as goals.

A 2.0 grade-point average in linguistics courses is required for all Linguistics Department majors. All courses for the major must be taken for a letter grade, the only exception is for the major preparation language requirements.

MAJOR AND MINOR POLICY UPDATE (EFFECTIVE FALL 2023): Linguistics 20 must be passed with a letter grade of ‘C’ or better prior to beginning upper-division coursework in the major. Please see the memo outlining these upcoming changes to the major and minor preparation requirements.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, in-line with the College of Letters and Sciences, the Department of Linguistics has decided to make exceptions regarding the use of Pass/No Pass grading to fulfill major and minor requirements. To view the memos outlining these exceptions please click the links below:

Please contact the Department’s Undergraduate Student Affairs Officer regarding any questions about the requirements, or to declare one of the Department’s majors.

If you were a declared Linguistics & French, Linguistics & Italian, or Linguistics & Scandinavian Languages major prior to Fall 2021, you may contact the Undergraduate SAO for information about your major. Students admitted Fall 2021 and after who are interested in these majors may refer to their new home department, European Languages & Transcultural Studies

  • FAQs

    How can I change my major to linguistics?

    Students in the College of Letters and Science who have an overall grade-point average of 2.0, completed LING 20 with a grade of C or better, and are projected to complete their degree within “time-to-degree” can contact the Linguistics undergraduate advisor to switch to any of our majors, with the exception of Linguistics and Computer Science (see FAQ under Linguistics and Computer Science Major Requirements for information on switching to this major). Students who will be exceeding “time-to-degree” might still switch to a Linguistics Department major, but are required to file a time-to-degree petition and obtain approval from the College for additional time.

    Students who are not in the College of Letters and Science who have an overall grade-point average of 2.0, completed LING 20 with a grade of C or better, and are projected to complete their degree within “time-to-degree” can contact the Linguistics undergraduate advisor to switch to any of our majors, with the exception of Linguistics and Computer Science (see FAQ under Linguistics and Computer Science Major Requirements for information on switching to this major). In addition to receiving approval from the Linguistics undergraduate advisor to switch to any of our majors, students must follow the College procedure for Switching to the College of Letters & Science.

    EFFECTIVE FALL 2023: Students will only be required to earn a grade of ‘C’ or better to be eligible to declare a Linguistics major or minor.

    Where can I find more information about the foreign language requirements?

    Please view this guide.

    How can I sign up to receive the Linguistics Undergraduate Newsletter and other Linguistics updates for undergraduates?

    Current UCLA students who plan to minor, major, or double/triple major within Linguistics or are already officially declared one of our majors or minor may request to join our undergraduate email list to receive department announcements and learn about the various department and campus-wide opportunities.

    Please email the Linguistics Undergraduate SAO from the address you wish to have added with “SUBSCRIBE” in the subject and your university ID number in the body.

    What is the difference between LING 102 (Introduction to Applied Phonetics) vs. LING 103 (Introduction to General Phonetics) and how should I choose between the two?

    Certain majors in our department allow for the student to choose between the applied Phonetics/Phonology track and the general Phonetics/Phonology track while others require that a student complete the general Phonetics/Phonology track. Please consult the major requirement guides found below.

    These two courses often use the same textbook and both cover the following basic material:

    • the phonetic symbols and terminology of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA)
    • phonetic transcription, from dictation, of sounds from many languages
    • introduction to acoustic phonetics and the use of computer programs for recording, listening to, and analyzing speech sounds

     

    Beyond those core elements, they differ in what they cover and what kinds of work they require:

    • 103 requires an individual term project giving a phonetic description of a language of the student’s choice, and therefore spends a lot of class time on how to carry out and write up such a term project (especially, on how to do library research and language consultant work)
    • 102 does not include a term project; instead, it devotes a lot of class time to applications of phonetics in such areas as language teaching, speech therapy, speech technology, singing, advertising (and/or others of the instructor’s choosing)
    • 103 requires an individual oral exam on producing the sounds of the world’s languages as represented by the IPA, and therefore its discussion sections are mostly spent on practicing making sounds
    • 102 does not include an oral exam; instead, it devotes more time in discussion sections to phonetic transcription
    • 102 may spend more time on English phonetics than 103 does
    • 102 includes more written assignments and tests than 103 does

     

    Thus, Linguistics 103 is best for students who want to learn about the phonetics of a particular language, or who are interested in language fieldwork, description, and documentation. Linguistics 102 is best for students who want to explore other applications of phonetics, especially those thinking about careers in any of these areas.

    Please note that 103 is an acceptable prerequisite for both LING 119A & 120A, but 102 is ONLY the prerequisite for 119A and NOT 120A. Students who take 103 may choose between either Phonology course, but students who take 102 must take 119A (Applied Phonology).

    If you plan to change your major to another in our department please check which phonetics and phonology courses are required for the major you wish you complete using the guide provided above!

    What can I do with my Linguistics Major?

    For more information about the career prospects of a Linguistics Major, please refer to the Prospective Students webpage, as well as the career guide PDF, also found under the Prospective Students webpage, under the title, “What can I do with a degree in linguistics?”

  • Linguistics*

    The goal of linguistics is the enrichment of knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language. Linguistics is a theoretical discipline, akin to philosophy, anthropology, and cognitive psychology. It is important for prospective students to understand that studying linguistics is not a matter of learning to speak many languages. Linguistics courses draw examples from the grammars of a wide variety of languages, and the more languages linguists know about in depth (as distinct from possessing fluency in the use of them), the more likely they are to discover universal properties. It is also possible to pursue these universal aspects of human language through the intensive in-depth study of a single language. This accounts for the high proportion of examples from English and familiar European languages found in linguistics courses and research publications.

    *This major is certified by the US Department of Education as a STEM program, CIP Code 30.2501, which focuses on the study of the mind and the nature of intelligence from the interdisciplinary perspectives of computer science, philosophy, mathematics, psychology, neuroscience, and other disciplines. Includes instruction in mathematics and logic, cognitive process modeling, dynamic systems, learning theories, brain and cognition, neural networking, programming, and applications to topics such as language acquisition, computer systems, and perception and behavior.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

     

    Download Requirements (Prior to Fall 2021)
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  • Applied Linguistics*

    The Applied Linguistics major investigates linguistic issues relevant to the everyday world, shedding light on the nature of language and language use. Students will learn linguistic theory, the study of the structure of human language generally. With its focus on service learning, students will also learn linguistic practice, engaging in the community, schools, and work places of our geographic setting. Successful graduates will be well acquainted with language use from a variety of perspectives and experiences, and will be able to apply this knowledge to a wide variety of practices including language teaching, speech pathology, and translation and interpretation.

    *This major is certified by the US Department of Education as a STEM program, CIP Code 30.2501, which focuses on the study of the mind and the nature of intelligence from the interdisciplinary perspectives of computer science, philosophy, mathematics, psychology, neuroscience, and other disciplines. Includes instruction in mathematics and logic, cognitive process modeling, dynamic systems, learning theories, brain and cognition, neural networking, programming, and applications to topics such as language acquisition, computer systems, and perception and behavior.

    Please note there were some changes made to the APPLING major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new APPLING program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

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  • Linguistics and Anthropology*

    The major combines the basic courses of the general linguistics program with that of anthropology, the study of humankind. The goal of linguistics is the enrichment of knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language. Linguistics is a theoretical discipline, akin to philosophy, anthropology, and cognitive psychology.

    *This major is certified by the US Department of Education as a STEM program, CIP Code 30.2501, which focuses on the study of the mind and the nature of intelligence from the interdisciplinary perspectives of computer science, philosophy, mathematics, psychology, neuroscience, and other disciplines. Includes instruction in mathematics and logic, cognitive process modeling, dynamic systems, learning theories, brain and cognition, neural networking, programming, and applications to topics such as language acquisition, computer systems, and perception and behavior.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING & ANTHRO major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING & ANTHRO program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

    Download Requirements (Prior to Fall 2021)
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  • Linguistics and Asian Languages and Cultures

    The major combines the basic courses of the general linguistics program with that of East Asian languages and cultures. Students are able to study the civilizations of China, Korea, Japan and India, and enrich their knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language at the same time.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING & ALC major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING & ALC program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

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  • Linguistics and Computer Science*

    The major combines the basic courses of the general linguistics program with that of computer science, accommodating students who want professional preparation in computer science but do not necessarily have a strong interest in computer systems hardware. The goal of linguistics is the enrichment of knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language. Linguistics is a theoretical discipline, akin to philosophy, anthropology, and cognitive psychology.

    *This major is certified by the US Department of Education as a STEM program, CIP Code 30.2501, which focuses on the study of the mind and the nature of intelligence from the interdisciplinary perspectives of computer science, philosophy, mathematics, psychology, neuroscience, and other disciplines. Includes instruction in mathematics and logic, cognitive process modeling, dynamic systems, learning theories, brain and cognition, neural networking, programming, and applications to topics such as language acquisition, computer systems, and perception and behavior.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING & CS major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING & CS program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

    How can I change my major to Linguistics and Computer Science?

    Change of majors into LING & CS are considered only until AFTER you have completed LING 20 with a C or better, Math 31A and Math 31B, and Computer Science 31 and 32.

    CS 31 and CS 32 will have an enrollment restriction for majors only on the first enrollment pass. You can try registering on your second enrollment pass, space permitting. If the course is full, you will need to fill out an enrollment petition for each course CS 31 and CS 32 (petitions become live during the second enrollment pass).Historically, all students who submit the petition and attend class during the first two weeks of the quarter, are enrolled into the course by Week 2 of the quarter.

    Once you have completed LING 20, Math 31A and Math 31B, and CS 31 and CS 32, please contact the Department’s Undergraduate Student Affairs Officer. If you complete these courses, have a minimum 2.0 GPA (in the preparation for the LING & CS major AND cumulatively) and are projected to complete your degree within “time-to-degree,” the change of major is usually approved.

    How can I enroll in CS 31 or CS 32 before officially declaring the Linguistics and Computer Science major?

    Please use the online enrollment request form managed by the Department of Computer Science once enrollment begins for the quarter in which you intend to take the course.

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  • Linguistics and English

    The major combines the basic courses of the general linguistics program with that of English. Students are able to study the literatures and cultures of those parts of the world in which English is the primary language, the history and structure of the English language itself, and enrich their knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language at the same time.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING & ENGL major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING & ENGL program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

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  • Linguistics and Philosophy

    The major combines the basic courses of the general linguistics program with that of philosophy, for students who are reflective about their beliefs or who wish to become so. Students enrich their knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language, and are given the opportunity to ponder the foundations of almost any other subject to which they are exposed — whether history, religion, government, law, or science.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING & PHILOS major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING & PHILOS program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

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  • Linguistics and Psychology**

    The major combines the basic courses of the general linguistics program with that of psychology. Students are able to study and explain human and animal behavior, both normal and abnormal, as well as enrich their knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language.

    **This major is certified by the US Department of Education as a STEM program, CIP Code 42.2701, which focuses on the scientific study of the mechanisms and processes of learning and thinking, and associated information encoding, decoding, processing and transmitting systems. Includes instruction in theories of cognition and intelligence; studies of cognitive processes such as memory, sensation, perception, pattern recognition, problem solving, and conceptual thinking; cybernetics; psycholinguistics; and the study of biological and social communications mechanisms and processes.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING & PSYCH major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING & PSYCH program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

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  • Linguistics and Spanish

    The major combines the basic courses of the general linguistics program with that of Spanish. Students are able to study one of the languages, literatures, and cultures of the Hispanic heritage, as well as enrich their knowledge about the nature, grammar, and history of human language.

    Please note there were some changes made to the LING & SPAN major and went into effect Fall 2021. The new LING & SPAN program requirements will apply to any student entering the major in Fall 2021 and beyond. If you were already in the major before Fall 2021 and would like to switch to the new program, please send an email to the undergraduate student advisor.

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  • Linguistics Minor

    The UCLA Department of Linguistics offers a Minor in Linguistics. This minor is an attractive option for any student where training in linguistic analysis could be an enhancement to their major program, or those who are interested in “language”, but do not have time in their undergraduate program to pursue multi-quarter language courses. The Department offers ten (10) “joint majors” that combine linguistics with training in specific languages, e.g. Linguistics and Spanish, or with training in fields allied to linguistics, e.g. Linguistics and Psychology. There are, however, other natural combinations not offered in the Department. The minor in Linguistics provides an avenue for students in other departments to create programs that resemble the Department of Linguistics’ joint majors.

    The minor in Linguistics comprises of seven (7) courses with a minimum of 28 units.

    Linguistics Minor FAQ

    How do I add the minor?

    Students in the College of Letters and Science who have an overall grade-point average of 2.0, completed LING 20 with a grade of C or better, and can complete their degree within time-to-degree (or have been approved by the College to exceed time-to-degree) can contact the Linguistics undergraduate advisor to add the minor.

    Students who are not in the College of Letters and Science who have an overall grade-point average of 2.0 and completed LING 20 with a grade of C or better should then consult their School’s advising unit about the process of adding a minor in the College. Once approved by their School, they can contact the Linguistics undergraduate advisor to sign any necessary petitions.

    Do students in the minor get priority enrollment?

    Students in the minor are not given priority enrollment into LING 103, LING 120A, or LING 120B on the first enrollment pass. Instead, we recommend that you plan for enrolling into LING 102 (winter course) and 119A (spring course) because these courses are not restricted. LING 120B is a larger course and will likely have seats open on the second enrollment pass. All other linguistics upper division courses are not restricted, so students in the minor can enroll.

    What if I cannot complete the minor?

    Please contact the Linguistics undergraduate advisor by email with your UID to request the drop of minor.

     

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  • Specialization in Computing

    Students in any of the linguistics majors (except Linguistics and Computer Science) may elect to add the Specialization in Computing by (1) satisfying all the requirements for a bachelor’s degree in the specified major; and (2) completing Program in Computing 10A, 10B, 10C OR Computer Science 31, 32; Mathematics 61; Linguistics 185A, and one course selected from 104, 127, 132, 165A, 165B, 165C, 180, 185B.

    Students who successfully complete these requirements graduate with a BA in their specific major and a Specialization in Computing. Please contact the Department’s Student Affairs Officer for more information.