Languages and Linguistics

Interested in language courses? If you speak English, you can only communicate with around 20% of the world. The power of a second language cannot be understated. Not only are your memory and brain functions greatly improved, but studying languages also helps you understand your own language better, and it can make you more attractive to employers in our increasingly connected global economy.

Within our Bachelor of Arts, you can study languages including Greek, Indonesian, Chinese (Mandarin) or one of three Indigenous languages (Yolngu, Arrernte or Bininj Kunwok). These language courses are reflective of CDU's unique location in the Top End, Australia's gateway to South-East Asia, and Darwin's incredibly multicultural community. 

Prefer the scientific study of languages? Study linguistics at CDU to understand how we communicate, why we communicate the way we do, and how the mechanics of language infiltrate every aspect of our lives. You don't even need to know a second language to excel in your linguistics course, and there are many areas of specialisation you can follow. Deep dive into the structure of languages, how they differ depending on culture and context, how they change and evolve over time, and how our cultural identities are formed through language. Those studying linguistics can also pursue a postgrad qualification in the field through the Master of Applied Linguistics.

Most of the world is bilingual – not knowing a second language leaves you at a disadvantage! Study languages at CDU to enhance your career opportunities across a wide spectrum of professions, including healthcare, hospitality, education, business, tourism, government and defence, as well as roles in interpreting, translating and language teaching. 

For global organisations with offices dotted around the world or companies who work with foreign clients or supplies, your ability to communicate in different languages is highly valuable. The more people you can communicate with, negotiate with, network with, or sell to, the more attractive you are as a future employee.

The knowledge held by graduates of linguistics courses at CDU can lead to an array of fascinating careers, from forensic linguistics and specialist linguist roles within government and defence all the way to research, journalism, community development initiatives like NGOs, and more. As the underpinnings of Australia's education system are based on applied linguistics, many teachers also choose to study linguistics courses so their learnings can be directly carried out in the classroom. 

CDU's focus on First Nations language contexts also offers linguistics students the opportunity to learn how to revitalise and maintain language. Many First Nations graduates of linguistics study at CDU have gained the knowledge to return to their communities and work on reviving languages.