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Majors

Linguistics | Majors
Major In Linguistics

This programme focuses on the core subjects of the field, including Phonology and Syntax up to the advanced level, Sociolinguistics, and the study of Creole languages. Students select additional courses according to their interests, which may include Language Acquisition, Applied Speech Production, Haitian Creole, etc.

The Major in Linguistics requires a minimum of 39 credits in Linguistics. With an additional 15 credits, for a total of 54 credits in Linguistics courses, it becomes possible to declare a Special in Linguistics.

Major In Language, Communication And Society

This programme focuses on the social and communicative value of language, while also including courses which develop a deeper understanding of the organising principles behind the structure of language. Some signature courses in this major include Language, Gender & Sex, The Language of Negotiation, and Language Planning, alongside courses in Phonology, Syntax, Structure of the English Language, and the Sociology of Language.

The Major in Language, Communication & Society requires a minimum of 42 credits in Linguistics courses

Double Major In Linguistics & Language Education

This double major includes an equal number of courses in Linguistics and in Education. On the Linguistics side, students are introduced to language structure, sociolinguistics, language acquisition, and the place of language in Caribbean societies. The courses in this major which are offered by the School of Education focus on curriculum design, classroom management, and the structure and content of classes in English language and literature. Additionally, students in this major are required to take the introductions to poetry and prose taught in the Department of Literatures in English. The double major also includes school-based experience. Graduates from this programme are paid in the category ‘Trained Graduate’ by the Ministry of Education, Jamaica. This programme is not recommended for working students.

The Double Major in Linguistics & Language Education requires a total of 81 credits in Linguistics, Education and Literatures in English courses.

Major In Caribbean Sign Language Interpreting

This programme takes students through a course of study which allows them to develop fluency in a Caribbean Sign Language and expertise in Sign Language interpreting. The programme also allows students to develop an understanding of Deaf culture, and of the place of sign language in Caribbean societies. Graduates will therefore be equipped to serve the Caribbean and the rest of the world in this regard.

The Major in Caribbean Sign Language Interpreting requires a total of 45 credits.

Special In Languages And Linguistics

Foreign language study is naturally allied to the field of Linguistics. The Special in Languages and Linguistics is intended to produce graduates who can work in international organisations and global contexts with the advantage of knowledge of one or more Modern and/or Caribbean vernacular languages, as well as their contexts of use and communicative value. The programme is a combination of Modern languages, Caribbean languages such as English, Haitian Creole, Jamaican Creole and Caribbean Sign Language, with Linguistics courses in the structure of language (Phonology and Syntax, up to the advanced level). 

The Special in Language and Linguistics requires a minimum of 66 credits.

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