Linguistics

The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at the University of Cape Town offers students an in-depth exploration of human language, its structures, functions, and social implications. This comprehensive programme is designed to provide a solid foundation in the core areas of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, as well as sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, and language acquisition. Students will examine diverse languages and dialects, understanding the universal properties of language while appreciating linguistic diversity across communities. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, equipping graduates with the ability to analyze language data critically and apply linguistic principles in various contexts such as language teaching, translation, speech therapy, and technology development.

Throughout the programme, students engage in rigorous coursework complemented by research projects that foster analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. They have opportunities to gain hands-on experience through internships, language documentation initiatives, and collaborations with local communities. The interdisciplinary approach integrates insights from anthropology, psychology, computer science, and education, preparing students for versatile careers in academia, government, non-profit organizations, and the private sector. The programme also emphasizes research methodologies in linguistics, enabling students to contribute original insights to the field.

The degree promotes awareness of language issues such as language policy, language rights, and endangered languages, aligning with UCT's commitment to social justice and cultural diversity. By the end of the programme, graduates will possess a nuanced understanding of how language shapes human experience and societal structures. They will be well-equipped for advanced study or careers requiring strong analytical, communication, and intercultural skills. The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at the University of Cape Town is ideal for students passionate about understanding the complexities of language and eager to explore the rich linguistic landscape of South Africa and beyond.

Compulsory (core) course:

• AXL5301W Minor Dissertation

Elective courses:

• AXL4301F Language Contact and Bilingualism (May not be offered in 2016)
• AXL4303F Landmarks in Modern Linguistic Thought I (May not be offered in 2016)
• AXL4304S Special Topics
• AXL4305S Linguistics Approaches to the Study of Narrative (Not offered in 2016)
• AXL4306S Language Variation
• AXL4307F Typology and Universals
• AXL4309S Landmarks in Modern Linguistics Thought II (Not offered in 2016)
• AXL4312F African Linguistics
• AXL5302S Linguistic Anthropology
• AXL5310F Language Contact & Globalisation
• AXL5311F Research Methods in Sociophonetics (Not offered in 2016)
• AXL5312F Topics in Syntax

• Honours in Linguistics with an overall average result of not less than 60%. 
• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics at the University of Cape Town provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific study of language. The programme explores various aspects of linguistics, including phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, offering students a well-rounded perspective on how languages function and are structured. Students have the opportunity to examine a variety of languages, both in terms of their structural features and their socio-cultural contexts, fostering an appreciation of linguistic diversity and the universality of language principles. The programme emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing graduates for careers in fields such as language research, education, translation, and technology development related to natural language processing.

The curriculum incorporates coursework in descriptive linguistics, historical linguistics, sociolinguistics, and psycholinguistics, among others. Students are encouraged to develop critical analytical skills and apply linguistic theories to real-world issues, including language policy, language development, and communication technologies. Research skills are cultivated through coursework and independent projects, with opportunities to engage in fieldwork and data collection. The programme also promotes an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from anthropology, psychology, computer science, and other related fields to enhance understanding of language phenomena.

Students benefit from the university’s vibrant academic community, access to modern linguistics laboratories, and opportunities for regional and international collaboration. Furthermore, the programme aims to prepare students for postgraduate study in linguistics or related fields, as well as for careers in language teaching, editing, publishing, and speech therapy. The University of Cape Town prioritizes a student-centered educational experience, combining rigorous coursework with opportunities for research, internships, and community engagement to maximize employability and academic success. By the completion of the programme, graduates will have developed a deep understanding of linguistic theories and practical skills necessary for diverse professional contexts, equipped to analyze and interpret language data in academically rigorous and socially responsible ways.