Comparative Literature, Languages, & Linguistics

Linguistics

It is language that most clearly separates humans from all other species on the planet. Human affairs revolve around language. Linguistics — the systematic study of language — enables students to understand the inner workings of this most special human tool: who and why communication happens, or fails to happen; how language is used to support people in groups; and how the structure of language is the structure of human intelligence. Linguistics has many subfields, including the history and relationship among languages; the study of meaning, grammar, and context; the sound patterns of language; the interplay between language and society; the role of language and cognition in human evolution; the importance of language in interpersonal and intergroup communication; and the significance of linguistic analysis in law.

"Language is the most massive and inclusive art we know, a massive and anonymous work of unconscious generations."
–Edward Sapir

The Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Threat Assessment, and Strategic Analysis at Hofstra University

The Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Threat Assessment, and Strategic Analysis conducts original research, accepts outside assignments, and provides internship opportunities for graduate students at Hofstra.

Learn more about The Institute for Forensic Linguistics, Threat Assessment, and Strategic Analysis

In the Classroom

Programs

The Linguistics program in Hofstra University's Department of Comparative Literature, Languages, and Linguistics offers a number of undergraduate and graduate majors, minors, and degrees.

Your Future

Career Potential

Explore career potential in linguistics, by discovering available fields and positions, and read alumni success stories.

Contact Us

Robert A. Leonard, Ph.D.
Professor of Linguistics
Director: Linguistics Programs
309 Calkins Hall
516-463-5440
Email | Bio