About the Course

Linguistics: The Science of Language

From the 280-character limit on the social media site X to the 1,400-page literary powerhouse that is War and Peace, language is an essential part of the human experience. As an ever-growing field of academic research, linguistics uses rigorous methodology to study four primary aspects of language: phonology (sound patterns), morphology (word formation), syntax (sentence structure), and semantics (meaning). In this course, we will analyze language as a biological human instinct and as an important cultural artifact in human society. Investigating language through the lenses of psychology, vocal anatomy, cultural studies, and history, we’ll discuss the universal qualities of language and the unique aspects of individual languages and dialects. Along the way, you will come to understand language as a force that dynamically shapes and is shaped by history, biology, class, status, ethnicity, gender, and institutions like the media and the law. You’ll develop a mastery of tools like the International Phonetic Alphabet, and the ability to identify and assess rhetorical tricks used by advertisers, politicians, and more.

Typical Class Size: 16

Course Overview

This course is

ungraded.

Summer Dates & Locations

Registration deadline:

After May 9, 2025, registration is available upon request pending eligibility and seat availability. To request placement, email [email protected] after submitting a program application.

Session One

Image of the Ursinus College campus
Ursinus College
Collegeville, Pennsylvania
-
Residential cost: $7,259
Commuter cost: $6,459
Enroll
image of the Skidmore College campus
Skidmore College
Saratoga Springs, New York
-
Residential cost: $7,259
Commuter cost: $6,459
Enroll

Session Two

Image of the Ursinus College campus
Ursinus College
Collegeville, Pennsylvania
-
Residential cost: $7,259
Commuter cost: $6,459
Enroll
image of the Skidmore College campus
Skidmore College
Saratoga Springs, New York
-
Residential cost: $7,259
Commuter cost: $6,459
Enroll

Testing and Prerequisites

  Math Verbal
Required Level CTY-Level or CTY-Level
Check your eligibility using existing test scores If you do not have existing test scores:

Students must achieve qualifying scores on an advanced assessment to be eligible for CTY programs. If you don’t have qualifying scores, you have several different testing options. We’ll help you find the right option for your situation.

Sign up for Testing Learn More

Cost and Financial Aid

  • Tuition
    • Varies
  • Application fee
    • Nonrefundable Application Fee - $55 (Waived for financial aid applicants)
    • Nonrefundable International Fee - $250 (outside US only)

Financial Aid is available
We are committed to serving all talented youth regardless of financial circumstances. Financial assistance is available based on need.

Learn More

Course Materials

Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
 

Sample Reading

These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course, and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.

  • Language Files, The Ohio State University Department of Linguistics.

About History and Social Science at CTY

Enhance your critical thinking skills

Expand your ability to reason through difficult problems by taking one of our philosophy or logic classes. Learn how to craft strong and clear arguments in Big Questions, or explore the techniques of logic that lawyers, doctors, and mathematicians utilize to be successful in their fields in Logic: Principles of Reasoning.

Explore social justice in action

Develop knowledge and skills that will help you address issues of systemic inequality throughout the world. Engage the historical and legal challenges different populations face in Great Cases and Laws and Orders.

Meet our instructors and staff