Linguistics is the scientific study of human language. This discipline concerns itself with the intrinsic knowledge that humans have about language and all aspects of language use. At the undergraduate level, the study of linguistics teaches students how to analyze languages to understand how they are structured and how they function.

In addition to an interest in language and an aptitude for analytic thinking, high scores on verbal, analytic, and quantitative aptitude tests are indicators of success in linguistics. Students must be able to reason logically and explicitly and deal with formulas and abstract symbols; those who pursue laboratory research in linguistics will also need training in statistical and experimental methodologies. Depending on their vocational goals, prospective linguistics students should consider pursuing their studies either through the M.A. in linguistics with a professional focus or through the doctorate; or they should take a second major. Appropriate companion fields include (but are not limited to) world languages, English, anthropology, sociology, speech and hearing science, psychology, mathematics, computer science, philosophy, and elementary and secondary education.