Slavic Linguistics and Languages
In addition to general courses and concentrations in East, West, and South Slavic Linguistics, the Department has tracks in Balkan Linguistics and Baltic Linguistics. Language and linguistics-oriented courses are available in Russian, Ukrainian, Czech, Polish, Bosnian/Croatian/Serbian, Macedonian, and Bulgarian as well as Albanian, Georgian, Lak, Lithuanian, and Romani. Other Slavic, Balkan, and Baltic languages are also covered in various linguistics courses. The option to pursue a joint degree in the Department of Linguistics broadens the opportunities for students in Slavic Linguistics.
MA: Nine quarter courses (including: Introduction to Slavic Linguistics; Structure of the major Slavic language; History of the major Slavic language, or Comparative Slavic Phonology; and two courses in literature or interdisciplinary studies), a demonstrated proficiency in reading a second Slavic language (this second requirement may be met by satisfactorily completing all work of a one-year language course), and a comprehensive examination based on a departmental reading list. This exam serves also as a Qualifying Examination for admission to the Ph.D. program.
PhD: In addition to Slavic Linguistics, students may specialize in Balto-Slavic or Balkan linguistics and can petition for a joint degree with the Department of Linguistics. Students must take one course beyond the two required for the M.A in a Slavic literature or interdisciplinary studies. Students will also be expected to demonstrate a knowledge of the principles of general linguistics. Successful passing of the Linguistics Department M.A. core courses will meet this requirement. Students may substitute a sequence of three additional courses in a Slavic literature or in interdisciplinary studies for the requirement in general linguistics. Students in Slavic linguistics will be required to demonstrate a reading knowledge of two additional Slavic languages, so that East, West, and South Slavic languages are all represented. Students with a field in Balkan linguistics or Baltic linguistics may substitute a non-Slavic Balkan or Baltic language for one of the Slavic languages. Remaining required courses will be those needed to prepare for the comprehensive examination. The comprehensive examination is given in the following areas:
- Comparative Slavic and history and structure of the second Slavic language, or for students with special programs, a Baltic or Balkan language.
- The history and structure of the major Slavic language.