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- What is Linguistics?
- What is the Division of Linguistics and Multilingual Studies about?
- How is LMS at NTU different?
- What is the emphasis of the LMS Major at NTU?
- What can I do with a degree in LMS?
- I am reading Mother Tongue/Foreign Language. Do I have an advantage in doing the LMS Major?
- Will I have the opportunity to study abroad?
- If I attended a Polytechnic rather than to a JC, will I have difficulty with the coursework?
Division-Specific FAQs
Linguistics and Multilingual Studies (LMS)
What is Linguistics?
The study of Linguistics and Multilingual Studies allows students to explore the many interesting facets of language, from the properties of speech sounds to word and sentence structure, from children's language development to communication in bilingual and multilingual societies. It encompasses a very wide range of topics: how a finite inventory of basic linguistic units is deployed to express an infinite variety of meanings, how sentences are processed and decoded, how the bilingual and multilingual mind is structured, and how technology impacts upon people's everyday use of language, to mention just a few.
Linguistics is the systematic study of language. Since language is generally regarded as the defining trait of human beings, Linguistics occupies a central position in the humanities. At the same time, Linguistics aims at achieving a detailed understanding of the complex neurological and psychological processes whereby speech and writing are produced and understood, as well as the sociological and cultural underpinnings that inform linguistic communication. It thus also shares considerable common ground with the social sciences, including psychology, anthropology, and sociology.
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What is the Division of Linguistics and Multilingual Studies about?
As the name "Linguistics and Multilingual Studies" suggests, the programme is designed with a focus on the study of the languages of multilingual individuals and of multilingual societies. This is particularly relevant to Singapore and the region, which is characterised by the widespread practice of bilingualism and multilingualism. In addition to English, this programme will also focus on the study of language issues in countries that are of special relevance to Singapore such as China, India, Indonesia and Vietnam, amongst others.
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How is LMS at NTU different?
We are the only institution in Singapore (and the region) to offer such a degree.
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What is the emphasis of the LMS Major at NTU?
Our graduates will have a concrete foundation in the theories of linguistics across the many different subfields. We offer courses in 5 concentrations:
- Language and Technology
- Multilingual Societies And Multiculturalism
- Language, Mind and Multilingualism
- Applied English Linguistics
- General Linguistics
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What can I do with a degree in LMS?
The Linguistics and Multilingual Studies (LMS) programme aims to produce graduates to meet the manpower requirement of Singapore and the region. Studying LMS allows students to not only explore questions about language, but also to receive broad training that cuts across traditional boundaries between disciplines. By virtue of the central role of language in human interactions and activities, LMS is situated at the intellectual intersection of the humanities, and social, biological, and behavioral sciences, and is an important component of an all-rounded education. This allows LMS graduates therefore to take on jobs that are not restricted by disciplinary boundaries.
LMS takes an analytical approach to the study of language, and LMS graduates will have acquired skills in critical thinking, data analysis, problem solving, and logical thinking that can be applied to many fields. The study of language in multilingual settings also provides students with a global perspective, allowing LMS graduates to be culturally and socially attuned and aware, making them good communicators with an international worldview. The focus on languages other than English also ensures that the graduates find careers in fields that are not limited to English.
Armed with the life-skills that a LMS education provides, graduates will have a firm foundation from which they can pursue careers in such areas as the publishing and communication industries, translating and interpreting, computational fields, foreign language teaching, and the teaching of English as a second language. It is also relevant to professions where cultural awareness and communication skills are critical components of the job description. Generally, an LMS major provides students with valuable training for many different kinds of opportunities following graduation.
The jobs for LMS include:
- Work in the computer industry:
- Work in education:
- Teach languages:
- Work as a translator or interpreter:
- Work on language documentation or do fieldwork:
- Work in the publishing industry, as a technical writer, or an editor:
- Work for a testing agency:
- Work with dictionaries (lexicography):
- Become a consultant on language in professions such as law or medicine:
- Marketing and advertising
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I am reading Mother Tongue/Foreign Language. Do I have an advantage in doing the LMS Major?
Yes indeed. These are helpful as an entry point. It also helps you understand the intricacies of multilingualism in your course of study.
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Will I have the opportunity to study abroad?
Yes, NTU strongly encourages students to study abroad for one or two semesters during your course. NTU has exchange programmes in place.
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If I attended a Polytechnic rather than to a JC, will I have difficulty with the coursework?
We have accepted numerous students from Polytechnics, some of whom are among our best students. Our first year compulsory subjects are all introductory in nature, and are designed specifically to prepare all students for the more advance subjects of their later years.
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