The Linguistics Department at Georgetown is committed to analyzing a diversity of linguistic phenomena through different modes of inquiry. We examine language through its structure, acquisition, use in context, and via computational models. By valuing the legitimacy and relevance of research at every level of analysis, and acknowledging that no one model of language can provide all the answers (or even address all the pertinent questions), we provide a foundation of linguistic study in a department that is built upon a tradition of unique pluralism. The Department of Linguistics offers four concentrations leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Linguistics (see list below). No matter the concentration, our faculty work closely with students, guiding their research and supporting their passions. Applied Linguistics, Computational Linguistics, Sociolinguistics, Theoretical Linguistics
Sociolinguistics is the study of language in social context. Faculty and student interests in this concentration include, but are not limited to: language and social interaction, language variation and change, discourse analysis, intercultural communication, narrative analysis and oral history, language and identity, language and dialect contact, endangered and minoritized languages and dialects, language and aging, language and health care, language and business, language and education, and inclusion and exclusion in interaction.