Courses in Languages

Languages are forms of communication considered peculiar to humankind. Language consists of indices, icons or symbols etc. Human languages are usually referred to as natural languages. Language is one of the most powerful communication tools available to an individual. The scientific study of language is known as Linguistics which is further divided into a number of sub-fields.

Theoretical linguistics is mostly concerned with developing models of linguistic knowledge. Core fields of theoretical linguistics are syntax, phonology, morphology and semantics. Applied linguistics attempts to put linguistic theories into practice through areas like translation, stylistics, literary criticism and theory, discourse analysis, speech therapy, speech pathology and foreign language teaching.

Language skills prove to be an important attribute in many professions. A career in foreign language has always been an attractive proposition, especially for those who have a flair for languages. The opportunities are starting from tour operators to interpreter and translators.With emerging globalization, an individual who has knowledge of more than one language has a number of advantages to his/her credit. Careers nowadays not only ask for languages as a primary skill, but occasionally as a secondary skill as well.

Some of its specialized fields are -

1.  Translation

2.  Interpretation

3.  Linguist

4.  Teaching

Content

The study of this field includes all or few of these –

• Grammatical structure
• Communication skills
• Listening, speaking, reading and writing

Objectives

1.  To increase understanding of other countries, cultures and people

2.  Preservation or maintenance of minority and endangered languages

3.  Raise awareness around the use of language in indigenous communities

4.  Contribute to language policy development.

Basic Requirement

Language courses can be studied after 10+2 as a 3 years graduate course or even as 5 years integrated language course in the universities offering such courses. Study of a Foreign language at school level is is always helpful as you allready have mastered the basics.

Some universities even offer diploma/certificate courses for graduates and post graduates. These courses can also be pursued at the institutes run by embassies and consulates. These institutes offer both basic and advanced level courses, some of them extending upto 5-6 years.

Job Perspectives

With the globalisation of many world economies, multinationals companies have joint ventures globally. This has opened up job scenario for those proficient in foreign languages. Academic qualifications in foreign languages helps in pursuing careers in various areas. International organisations and embassies employ language specialists for secretarial, executive and public relation assignments as well as for translations and interpretations jobs.

Translators are also employed with industries, publishing houses, government and research organisations. Other job opportunities for language specialist lie with the travel and tourism sector, hotel industry, exhibitions and fairs, airlines offices, export agencies, radio stations and trade organisations. Teaching is also an area of employment.