Linguistics

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Linguistics is the scientific study of language in all its variety. Language is both extremely systematic and immensely varied. Phonology is the study of how sounds are organized into unique systems for different languages. The structure of words is examined in morphology. The organization of words into larger units is called syntax. Meaning is studied in the subfields of semantics and pragmatics. In addition, cognitive science studies the nature of intelligent behavior: language, meaning, knowledge, thinking, perceiving, remembering and other mental phenomena. Students majoring in linguistics may choose careers in linguistics, education, law, and government.

Students who wish to major in linguistics may do so by fulfilling the requirements of the Pitzer College or the Pomona College linguistics major, plus a senior thesis. Pitzer coordinates its program with the department of Linguistics and Cognitive Science at Pomona College, which offers a cognitive science major in addition to the linguistics major. Arrangements for pursuing a linguistics major or the cognitive science track must be made with an off-campus major adviser and facilitated by a Scripps adviser in a foreign language, psychology, or neuroscience. Please see the Pitzer College catalog or the Pomona College catalog for information about a linguistics or cognitive science major.

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