Theoretical Linguistics and Cognition

Career

A training in theoretical linguistics and cognition offers a sound basis for further research and for admission to more specialised programmes in a variety of linguistic fields, especially those related to clinical linguistics or speech and language pathology. Combining this with a degree in speech therapy will increase your market value for a position in a rehabilitation centre.

Generally, you can apply your newly acquired linguistic and analytical skills for a career in publishing, in communications, in a translation agency, as a copywriter, editor or proof-reader. Graduates often also find employment in business services or education, as teachers or lecturers, or they take up a career in journalism. You will also find your skills sought after within the world of commerce.

Some figures about graduates of Linguistics

How successful are they in finding a job?

• 97 % found a job within two months.
• 78 % found their first job at professional or university level.
• 100 % held a position at professional or university level when the study was carried out.

In which sector do they find jobs?

• Teaching: 386
• Research: 136
• Business services: 114
• Health sector: 91
• Government / semi-government 91
• Publishing / book sector: 68
• Journalism: 45
• Other: 68

What are their main tasks and responsibilities? (%)

• Teaching / lecturing / training: 32
• Research: 27
• Archiving / classifying / administration: 23
• Co-ordination of work: 16
• Writing/ editing / translating: 16

Source: Employment Market Study among Leiden Graduates in Humanities (2012, Student Career Service Humanities )