Why study linguistics at La Trobe?

World-class research

We’re ranked 'above world standard' for our research in language, communication and culture.

Australian Research Council, 2019, Excellence in Research for Australia (ERA) Outcomes 2018

Real-world experience

Put your language skills into practice with professional placements in Australia and overseas.

Take a look at La Trobe's overseas study options.

Top 300 globally

We’re ranked in the world’s top 300 for arts and humanities.

Times Higher Education (THE), 2023, World University Rankings 2024 by subject: arts and humanities

Add more flexibility to your degree

With StudyFlex, you choose how to study your subjects – online, on campus, or a mix of both.

Great news – this is offered as a Flex major or minor at select campuses. That means at least half of the subjects in this major or minor are Flex subjects. Wherever you find them, whether they’re in a Flex major or minor or in a full StudyFlex course, our Flex subjects let you choose between studying online or on campus. It’s the perfect way to get the best of both worlds.

Discover StudyFlex

Career opportunities in linguistics

Career pathways

Studying linguistics builds skills in research, analysis and communication to prepare you for a range of different careers.

Possible roles include:

  • Translator or interpreter
  • Primary or Secondary school teacher
  • Language/ESL Teacher
  • Speech pathologist/audiologist
  • Researcher
  • Proofreader

Future employers

Potential employers of linguistics graduates include:

  • World Vision Australia
  • Australian National Audit Office
  • Stockland
  • State and Federal government
  • Morgan Stanley
  • Diageo
  • JP Morgan Chase & Company

Meet our staff

Photo of Tonya Stebbins

Language is central to our experience as social beings and a source of significant expressive and interpersonal power. Becoming fluent in a second language and understanding how language works are key skills in a global economy as well as central to effective communication in more local settings. People who are able to communicate effectively are highly valued by employers and sensitivity and insight into the speech and language of others allows for more sophisticated and nuanced responses to their needs.

Tonya Stebbins
Associate Professor of Linguistics,
La Trobe University

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