How to Become a Linguistic Anthropologist
Linguistic Anthropology is one of the four traditional branches of anthropology that studies language. Linguistic Anthropologists study the history, evolution and internal structure of languages. They seek to explain the nature of language including hidden connections between language, the brain and behavior.
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Instructions
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Learn about the field of Anthropology. Anthropology is divided into four traditional fields: Archeology, Biological Anthropology, Ethnology/Linguistics and Human Evolutionary Ecology. In the most general sense, the study of Anthropology is the study of humankind.
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Enroll in a university or college that offers a four-degree in Anthropology. If you are interested in studying Linguistic Anthropology, choose a school with a strong Linguistics department. Different schools focus on different things. While one may have a great Archeology program, it doesn't ensure that they also have a strong Linguistics program.
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Focus your studies on Linguistics in your upperclassman years after you have completed your introductory Anthropology classes. Take as many elective classes that focus on Linguistics as possible. Look in other departments for related classes.
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Enroll in an Anthropology Master's program. At this point it is imperative that you choose a school with a strong Linguistic Anthropology program.
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Join professional organizations that cater to Linguistic Anthropologists. Visit the Anthropology Department at your school to see what organizations are available for you to join. Consider joining organizations like the American Anthropological Association or The Society for Linguistic Anthropology. Subscribe to publications like the "Journal of Linguistic Anthropology."
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