Linguistics and Arabic

Linguistics and Arabic is a degree that combines the scientific study of language as a human phenomenon with deep engagement in one of the world's most widely spoken and culturally significant languages. Linguistics examines the sounds, structures, meanings and social uses of language, exploring questions such as how children acquire language, how languages change over time, how they vary across communities and regions, and what features languages share and how they differ. Arabic, the primary language of the Middle East and North Africa, brings these questions to life through the study of a language with a history spanning more than a thousand years, a rich literary tradition and a central role in one of the world's major world religions.

At the University of Manchester, this four-year full-time programme includes a sandwich placement year and work placement opportunities. You will study the science of language through the full range of core linguistic disciplines, including phonology, syntax, semantics and sociolinguistics, while also developing practical proficiency in Arabic and engaging with Arabic literature, culture and contemporary society. The linguistics component gives you powerful analytical tools for understanding how Arabic works as a language system, and the Arabic component provides a major world language in which to apply and test linguistic insight.

The placement year gives you direct professional experience in contexts where Arabic and language skills are directly relevant.

Graduates from Linguistics and Arabic programmes go on to careers in the diplomatic service, international organisations, journalism, broadcasting, translation and interpreting, education, language technology, academia and NGOs working in the Middle East and North Africa. The combination of rigorous linguistic training and Arabic language competence is particularly valued in government, the intelligence services, international development and humanitarian organisations. Postgraduate study in linguistics, Arabic, applied linguistics or area studies is a natural continuation for those who wish to develop specialist expertise.