What is Computational Linguistics?

Computational linguistics (CL) lives at the intersection of language and technology; it is inherently interdisciplinary. The CL concentration in the interdisciplinary studies master’s program brings together coursework in linguistics and computer science to develop two different skill sets in students. First, our graduates develop keen skills in linguistics and linguistic analysis, learning how languages work in the abstract. This knowledge can then be applied to the design of computational systems for automating linguistic analysis. The second major goal of the concentration is for students to develop a thorough knowledge of the methods used in automated natural language processing (NLP), as well as the programming skills to undertake research in computational linguistics. These two skill sets will be augmented by a pair of courses selected to strengthen background relevant for the student’s intended career path. These course sequences are to be selected in consultation with the concentration advisors; possible topics include learning technologies, digital data curation, business analytics, or information science.

Consider one of these 4 programs:

Careers: Students may work in the following areas:

  • Natural Language Processing
  • Computational Linguistics
  • Learning Technologies
  • Digital Data Curation
  • Business Analytics
  • Information Science

Skill sets in Linguistics Computer Science include:

  • Automating Linguistic Analysis
  • Morphological Analysis
  • Syntactic Analysis
  • Semantic Analysis
  • Linguistic Typology
  • Machine Learning
  • Computer Programming
  • Extending Proficiencies to Marketable Skills