English Language & Linguistics Minor
Look at language the way a linguist does — how it's built, how we learn it, and how it shapes the way we live — in a 15-credit minor that pairs with almost any major.
Program Overview
The English Language and Linguistics Minor at Shawnee State University provides students with a deep understanding of language—how it works, how it's acquired, and how it shapes human communication. While the primary focus is on the English language, courses in this 15-credit-hour minor examine language processes and systems from a broad linguistic perspective, incorporating global and cultural insights.
Students gain exposure to the building blocks of language, including phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics, while also exploring how English functions in historical, societal, and educational contexts. This minor pairs well with majors in English, education, communication, and any field where understanding language is critical.
At A Glance
English Language and Linguistics Minor
Degree
Minor
Format
On campus
Length
Complete alongside your major
Credits
15
Why Study English Language and Linguistics Minor at Shawnee University
Two core courses ground you in linguistic theory and the patterns of English; three electives let you go where you're curious — sociolinguistics, ESL teaching, language acquisition, anthropology of language, or special topics.
Useful for any career where understanding how language works matters — teaching, speech-language pathology, translation, marketing, social work, or law.
Small classes mean direct contact with faculty in linguistics and anthropology.
Pairs well with majors in English, education, communication, social work, and the social sciences.
The minor is 15 credits — two required core courses (6 credits) plus three electives (9 credits) from an approved list. A grade of C or better is required in every course.
- Required core (6 credits): LING 3360 Language and Linguistics; LING 3362 Patterns of English
- Electives (9 credits, choose three): ANTH 2250 Principles of Cultural Anthropology; LING 3365 History of the English Language; LING 4452 Language Acquisition; LING 4455 English Language in Society; LING 4460 Teaching English as a Second Language; LING 4490 Seminar in Linguistics; LING 4999 Special Topics in Linguistics
- English & Humanities, Communication, or Education majors
- Social Work, Sociology, Anthropology, Psychology, or International Studies students
- Anyone planning to teach English as a second language, work in speech-language pathology, or pursue translation
- Students considering graduate study in linguistics or English
On campus in Portsmouth, Ohio.
English Language and Linguistics Minor Frequently Asked Questions
No. LING 3360 Language and Linguistics is the entry point and assumes no prior coursework in the field.
Some courses overlap with the TESOL Minor. If teaching English as a second language is your goal, ask your advisor about taking both minors together.
C or better in every course applied to the minor.
Shawnee State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
