Linguistics
Linguistics and Bilingualism at UTEP
The Department of Latin-US and Linguistics is launching a new major and a new minor in Linguistics and Bilingualism, and a new M.A. in Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics. UTEP has offered courses in Linguistics since 1964 and degrees in Linguistics since 1969. The new programs capitalize on the strength of the faculty members, all of whom specialize in different areas of linguistics and bilingualism. The programs provide introductory training in theoretical linguistics and advanced training in bilingualism, second language acquisition, and applied linguistics, preparing students for Ph.D. studies in linguistic aspects of bilingualism, as well as for careers in TESOL and language teaching. The program is distinctive in that classes are generally small and the atmosphere supportive. At the same time, the faculty are internationally recognized for their research achievements, which often involve active student collaborations. The multilingual character of El Paso, TX and its location on the U.S.-Mexico border make for a fascinating environment for anyone interested in language, language learning, and bilingualism. Most El Paso residents are bilingual in English and Spanish.
What is Linguistics and Why Study Linguistics?
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Major in Linguistics and Bilingualism
If your primary interest is in how humans learn language and how bilinguals understand and produce each of their two languages, this degree is for you! Our classes introduce students to basic theoretical linguistics—including introduction to linguistics, phonology, and syntax—and then dive in various aspects of bilingualism, such as sociolinguistics and bilingualism (the use of two or more languages in society), second language acquisition (the learning of other languages, usually later in life), child language acquisition (the learning of one or more languages early on in life), and language and cognition (the cognitive processes that underlie language use in monolinguals and bilinguals/multilinguals). We also offer courses on the sounds of English and Spanish, on second language teaching, and on the structure of English and Spanish for the purpose of language teaching. The faculty are well established researchers who specialize in various aspects of bilingualism and who can guide students in their study of the field.
Information about the course requirements and degree plan for the major in Linguistics and Bilingualism in the UTEP Academic Catalog. You can also download the list of required courses here.
Minor in Linguistics and Bilingualism
If your primary interest is in a field such as psychology, anthropology, education, computer science, speech pathology, English, or Spanish, the study of linguistics and bilingualism provides an important grounding for the language-related aspects of these fields. It adds a significant professional credential to your list of qualifications and background. Even if your major is not directly related to linguistics or bilingualism, you may want to study it to broaden your knowledge of language learning and language use.
Information about the course requirements and degree plan for the Linguistics and Bilingualism minor can be found in the UTEP Academic Catalog. You can also download the list of required courses here.
Fast-Track M.A. in Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics
The Fast-Track M.A. in Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics is a program that allows undergraduate students to utilize 15 hours of selected M. A. courses toward both the undergraduate major in Linguistics and Bilingualism and the M.A. in Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics. A list of courses that have been approved for use at the graduate level is found here and here.
M.A. in Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics
Students interested in the study of language learning, language use in bilinguals, and language teaching should apply to our M.A. program in Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics. M.A. students take courses in second language acquisition, bilingualism, research methods, as well as more specialized courses that focus on language use and language teaching, and on the sounds and structure of English and Spanish. Graduate students have the opportunity to work with members of the linguistics faculty in producing original work contributing to the body of linguistic knowledge.
Information about the course requirements and degree plan for the M.A. in Bilingualism and Applied Linguistics can be found in the UTEP Academic Catalog. You can also download the list of required courses here.
TESOL Graduate Certificate
Linguistics also offers a graduate certificate in TESOL, a valuable credential to be able to teach English to speakers of other languages. Information about the course requirements and degree plan for the TESOL certificate can be found in the UTEP Academic Catalog.
Ph.D. in Psychology with a Concentration in Bilingualism, Language, and Cognition
Combined faculty of the Department of Psychology and the Department of Languages and Linguistics offer a PhD in Psychology with a concentration in Bilingualism, Language, and Cognition. This degree focuses on new research that examines the questions of how first and second languages are learned and how the languages of bilingual speakers interact with each other. A limited amount of financial support is available to graduate students on a competitive basis.
Information about the course requirements and degree plan for the Ph.D. in Psychology with Concentration in Bilingualism, Language, and Cognition can be found in the UTEP Academic Catalog.