Linguistics – Bachelor minor subject

Elective minor in an undergraduate study programme (bachelor). A minor subject may only be chosen in combination with a major subject.

We all know quite a lot about our own language without being able to formulate or talk about it. This is where linguistics kicks in, the science that aims to make the unconscious knowledge of language, the ‘feel for language’ conscious and understandable. How does a child manage to acquire its knowledge of a language and its language skills? What do all languages have in common? What happens in the brain when we speak or hear, write or read, make errors in speech or writing, mishear or misread something?

Linguistics is not German, English or French, but the science of languages and the ability to speak. Over the course of the programme, you will learn about the differences and similarities of languages as well as the evolution of language. Konstanz is one of the few universities in Germany where linguistics forms a key focus ready for you to study.

Degree
  • Bachelor minor subject
Start of study
  • Winter semester
Standard period of study
  • 6 Semester
Application period
  • 07.05. - 15.09.
Mandatory minor
  • No
ECTS Credits
  • 42

Study content

Study structure

Start of study

Winter semester

Study structure

This study programme consists of 5 modules. The basic modules provide you with a general introduction to linguistics in the core areas (e.g. phonetics, phonology or semantics). In the subsequent modules you then deepen your knowledge and get to know additional areas of linguistics (e.g. typology, sociolinguistics or computer linguistics). You will also concentrate on the structure and history of a particular language.

When studying for a bachelor's degree in the humanities, you will choose both a major subject (120 credits) and a minor subject (40 credits). In addition to this you will attend courses from the field of key competencies (20 credits), including an internship.

Click here for an overview of the general structure of bachelor's programmes in the humanities.

These documents will support you in planning your studies:

Opportunities for additional training

At the University of Konstanz, you have a broad range of opportunities and training options that complement your study programme, for example orientation programmes to support new students, learning guidance, language courses, a data and information literacy programme as well as options promoting career-oriented skills and social commitment.

Skills for successful studies Career-oriented skills and social commitment Get ready for your career start

Impressions from students and lecturers

Hear from students and lecturers
In our interview series, students talk about their subject, teachers explain the department's research and tell you what topics they cover in seminars and lectures.

Get an impression
Discover online lectures and websites with more information about your prospective subject.

Study requirements

Admission requirements for studying

The same general entry requirements apply for the major and minor:

General higher education entrance qualification (Abitur) or equivalent.

Further information can be found in the admission regulations.

Fees

Semester fee
All students enrolled at the University of Konstanz are charged a semester fee each semester, similar to all other German universities. Here you can find the current semester fee and its individual components.

Tuition fees for first degree studies for certain international students
Since winter semester 2017/18, the state of Baden-Württemberg has required some international students to pay tuition fees for their first degree studies. The following students are not required to pay tuition fees: citizens of a country within the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA), doctoral students and certain “Bildungsinländer” (e.g. non-EU citizens with a German “Abitur”). More detailed information can be found here.

Each year, the University of Konstanz grants exemptions to a limited number of particularly gifted international degree-seeking students in accordance with the university’s “Begabtenbefreiungssatzung” (statutes governing the exemption of gifted students). More detailed information can be found here.

Tuition fees for second degree studies for all students
All students are required to pay tuition fees for their second degree studies. More detailed information can be found here.

Required language skills

You do not have to proof any foreign language skills.

Teaching and examination language

The language of instruction and examinations is German.

Interests and skills

You should have enthusiasm for language(s) and their structure and the ability to think in a formal and networked way. One of the objectives of this study programme is to acquire research skills for theoretical and experimental work. Your lively curiosity should motivate you throughout the level-headed pursuit of systematic research, and you should be able to elevate concrete questions to an abstract level. Many textbooks and large parts of the research literature are written in English, so good English skills are highly recommended.

PocketGuide – Get to know the study programme
Is the course of studies B.A. Linguistics at the University of Konstanz something for you? Find out everything about studying linguistics at the University of Konstanz in our PocketGuide B.A. Linguistics (in German). You can take your first lessons and quizzes on subject contents and test your expectations of your studies.

Application

Application and application documents

Application documents

During the online application process, you will need to enter various kinds of information (school grades, attendance periods etc.) and upload various PDF documents. Please make sure that you have the relevant documentation ready. This may include:

  • your Abitur certificate (German general higher education entrance qualification)
  • documentation of any volunteering you may have done (FSJ, FÖJ etc.)
  • any documentation about vocational training you may have completed
  • any other required documents (medical certificate etc.)

An electronic assistant will guide you through the application process. Required fields are marked by an asterisk (*).

An application is possible during the following period: 07.05. - 15.09.
There may be other deadlines if you are applying for admission to a higher semester (for instance, if you are changing subjects or universities). For more information please consult the university website .

Contact

Contact person

The Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB) can help you with general questions about finding the right study programme as well as when you are concerned or unsure about your studies. We will be happy to advise you and support you with a wide range of services .

Central Student Advisory Service (ZSB)
Room: D 409 – 412a
Make an appointment: termin.zsb@uni-konstanz.de

Questions related to the content or organization of the study programme:
Departmental student advisory service
Dr. Anika Lloyd-Smith
Contact person room G 121
Phone: +49 7531 88-2581
Email: linguistik.studienberatung@uni-konstanz.de

Studying at the University of Excellence Konstanz

With your university entrance qualification in your pocket, the sky is the limit. Get a top education at the University of Konstanz, benefit from outstanding teaching and interdisciplinary exchange on our international campus. Situated on a hilltop overlooking Konstanz with a great view of Lake Constance and the Alps, our nationally and internationally renowned research university has been recognized as a University of Excellence since 2007.

Top ratings in the CHE University Ranking regularly confirm the quality of our study programmes. Take your pick from more than 100 programmes! Our courses are close to research and will perfectly equip you for the future, especially in combination with practice-oriented, socially relevant transfer projects, opportunities for going abroad and qualification programmes that you can complete alongside your studies.

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