If you’re coming to the end of your linguistics degree and have loved every minute of it, you’re probably wondering what’s next. You want to continue to use your linguistic skills in your working life but are not sure of all the options available to you. Of course, teaching is always an option and language teachers are currently in high demand in the UK. Alternatively, there’s translation work, which some linguistics graduates chose to pursue. But there are also a wealth of more specialist opportunities out there you may not have considered, and some, frankly, you’ve probably never heard of.

In this blog, we hope to give you some idea of just a few of the jobs that, as a linguistics graduate, you may wish to consider…

1. Computational linguist

… A what? A computational linguist is involved in the development of computer systems that deal with human language. This could be in the field of artificial intelligence, machine translation, document processing, computer-assisted language learning and many other fields besides.

To become a computational linguist, you need to have an interest in and understanding of software development and the structure of language. Those who become computational linguists tend to have the ability to visualise complex processes and solve difficult problems.

You’ll also need to follow your undergraduate linguistics degree with a master’s degree in computational linguistics. However, all the hard work should be worth it. Computational linguists are in high demand and do get well paid.

2. Forensic linguist

Forensic linguistics is concerned with the application of linguistic knowledge, methods and insights in the forensic context of law, criminal investigations, trials and judicial procedures. In real terms, qualified forensic linguists could find themselves performing language analysis on emergency calls, threatening communication and social media for law firms, the police and government agencies. Alternatively, your skills could be in demand in the fields of trademark disputes, author identification and the language analysis of asylum seekers.

The entry requirements for a role as a forensic linguist tend are high, with a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in linguistics essential. In many cases, a PhD in linguistics will also be required.

3. Technical writer

A technical writer works with graphic designers, software developers, user experience designers and testers to plan and write technical documentation to educate consumers. This could be in the form of whitepapers, manuals, online help, business correspondence, design specifications, project plans, test plans and more.

For a technical writer, writing skills are clearly essential. You need to be able to convey what can be complex information in a clear and concise way that can be understood by the audience. The skill set of a technical writer depends largely on the subject matter. For example, writing in pharmaceuticals or other manufacturing industries can be highly technical and will require very specific knowledge.

To get into this line of work, a bachelor’s degree in linguistics followed by a masters in journalism, or a bachelor’s degree in English or communications will usually be required. You will also need experience of publishing software like Adobe, CSS, Photoshop etc.

4. Lexicographer

Lexicographers write, compile and edit dictionaries for native speakers, language learners, professionals and bilingual speakers. They not only define the words in the dictionaries but also help plan the content of dictionaries for particular groups and use specialist computer databases that store information about language from many different sources.

A career as a lexicographer is certainly not for everyone, but if it does interest you, you will need a degree in linguistics, English or modern languages. A postgraduate qualification in foreign languages will be useful for aspiring bilingual lexicographers.

We can help

If you’re ready to take your first or next step on the bilingual career ladder, we can help. Take a look at our current vacancies and apply online today.