Linguistics

As in other small subjects, most teaching is organised at departmental level. Peterhouse is one of the few colleges to have an internal Director of Studies in Linguistics, Dr Nicholas Zair, who has research interests in writing systems, sounds and morphology of ancient languages. He is currently working on the languages of ancient Italy. Professor Mari Jones, Fellow and Tutor of Peterhouse, is a University Professor in French Linguistics and has research and teaching interests in language obsolescence and revitalization, language contact and change, and dialectology and standardization. Her work has focused particularly on French, Norman and the Celtic languages.

For a student's perspective on life as a Linguist at Peterhouse, have a look at the JCR's alternative prospectus and read an interview with a student.

For most of our students, Linguistics is a new subject that they have not studied formally before. Some may have developed an interest in language from doing English Language A level, while for others the initial stimulus may have come from learning a foreign language or experiencing different dialects and languages in their everyday lives. Because of this diversity of backgrounds, we do not insist on any particular subjects, but are looking instead for intellectual curiosity about language, a passion for the subject and an ability to think about language in a logical and precise manner. Successful candidates are likely to have shown evidence of intellectual independence, for instance, through independent reading in relevant areas. Subjects that could serve as a good preparation for this course include English Language, a foreign language, maths, psychology or a science.

We ask all our Linguistics applicants to send us two examples of recent written work, ideally essays. Where particular difficulties exist, we are always able to suggest other kinds of work which may help us in our assessment.

Candidates can probably expect to have one interview. This aims to test your ability to think creatively and logically about language, to work out the structure of an unfamiliar language, and to establish your motivation for the subject and degree of engagement with it. Whilst in Cambridge for your interview, candidates will be asked to sit a written assessment. This will be the same assessment across all Colleges and more information can be found on the University website.

Our typical conditional offer for Linguistics is A*AA at A level. IB offers are usually for a minimum of 40-42 points, to include 776 or 777 at Higher level in relevant subjects. Offers are designed to be realistic, taking into account individual circumstances, and to reflect potential and likely levels of achievement. Most of those who receive offers will attain the grades required.