Linguistic Computing Minor
Computers have revolutionized research in linguistics. Studies that would have required days or weeks of careful cross-referencing can now be accomplished with a line of code and the touch of a button. In this minor, you’ll learn to use computer tools for collecting and analyzing large amounts of language data. Along the way, you’ll become proficient with Python for linguistic analysis and other programming languages (such as R) as needed; analyze text and speech using specialized software and your own scripts; and create corpora (collections of texts) and other artifacts using computational methods and algorithms. These skills are critical in the new generation of linguistic research and will be an asset in academic graduate studies and the technology industry alike.
The minor requires six courses: an introductory linguistics course, a course on linguistic research tools and methods, and four electives chosen from among computing courses such as programming for text processing and analysis, speech processing, corpus linguistics, and more.
How Do I Add a Linguistic Computing Minor?
The Linguistic Computing minor is open enrollment, meaning there is no limit on how many students can be in it, and there is no special application process. To add the minor, contact the advisement center of your major. You can find your advisement center’s contact information here.
Careers with a Linguistic Computing Minor
The Linguistic Computing minor is a good choice for students already in a linguistics or language program who want to expand their command of research tools or work in industries involving computers, such as natural language processing, conversational AI, and machine-assisted translation. It also provides a linguistic foundation for STEM students (such as Computer Science majors) who intend to work in one of these areas, and these students can also expect to get specialized training in text and speech processing techniques.
Faculty Advisor
If you have questions about the minor—whether you’re interested or already enrolled—feel free to schedule an appointment with the faculty advisor for students in the minor, Earl Brown.
