Linguist
OFO No: 264303
What is a Linguist?
A Linguist studies a language or languages. These can be modern or ancient languages. These studies can be both theoretical as well as practical.
Examples of theoretical studies:
- Grammar – (the structure of a language)
- Syntax – (arrangement of words & phrases)
- Semantics – (meaning of words & phrases)
- Origin – (history of a word or phrase)
- Phonetics – (the sound of a language)
Examples of practical studies are found in careers such as:
- Translator
- Speech Therapist
- Language Teacher
- Interpreter etc
A person who can speak a lot of different languages may also be called a Linguist.
What does a Linguist do?
- studies languages – (grammar, syntax, spelling, etc)
- researches history of words and phrases
- studies the sounds of languages
- researches and monitors the changes languages over time
- keeps up to date with new words
Are you . . . ?
- interested in languages?
- a good communicator?
- a good speller?
- interested in research?
- detail orientated?
- organised?
How do I become a Linguist?
You will need a strong passion for languages.
A Bachelor’s Arts (BA) degree in Linguistics can be done at most of SA universities including UNISA (distance learning). Look under the faculty Humanities.
TRAINING:
- CLICK HERE to check for a training institution near you to see what they offer.
- Make sure you understand their entry requirements for each course.
- To avoid scams, make sure your institution is registered with the Department of Higher Education. CLICK HERE to check accredited Private Higher Education Institutions.
- SOUTH AFRICAN APPLIED LINGUISTICS ASSOCATION (SAALA)
OTHER CAREERS TO CONSIDER: Copywriter, Crime Reporter and Scriptwriter
Is becoming a Linguist the right career choice for me?