COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA in Linguistics at the University of Victoria provides a flexible and broad-based study of language as a core human system, combining linguistic theory with opportunities to explore language in social, cultural and cognitive contexts. Students begin in Year 1 by completing foundational courses in linguistics, such as LING100A or LING181 along with LING100B, while also taking a wide range of electives that allow them to build complementary skills across disciplines. In Year 2, students move into core linguistic analysis through courses in phonetics, phonology, morphology and syntax, supported by additional 200-level linguistics electives that help deepen understanding of language structure and use. The upper years (3 and 4) focus on advanced linguistic theory and specialization. Students complete essential courses in syntax and phonology and then choose from research-focused options such as advanced morphological, syntactic or phonological analysis, experimental phonetics, linguistic field methods, or language variation and change. A key feature of the program is the inclusion of Indigenous language structure, where students engage with courses on Indigenous languages and linguistic fieldwork. Additional upper-level linguistics courses allow further specialization, while electives provide flexibility to combine linguistics with other areas of interest. Overall, the BA emphasizes critical thinking, analytical skills and cultural awareness through the scientific study of language in diverse human contexts.