Linguistics (BA)

After graduation

Get to know Ali Esrail in this video! He studied Linguistics at Leiden University and is now working as Trainee Labour Market Communication at Leiden University (Faculty of Science). Are you curious about what his working days look like? Watch the video to find out!

What are your skills after graduation?

The three-year bachelor in Linguistics provides you with a thorough understanding of the science of language in all its diversity. Our approach to this field is multidisciplinary, which ensures that you gain an understanding of language from many different angles, from the physical to the philosophical.

In addition, upon graduation you will have acquired valuable academic and personal skills that put you in an excellent position to enter the job market or to pursue your academic education with a master’s programme.

These skills include:

• Problem-solving and critical-thinking skills;
• The ability to transfer knowledge to practical issues;
• Independent thinking and problem solving;
• Writing texts for specific audiences;
• Presentation skills;
• The ability to work in teams as well as to work independently;
• Analysing  and assessing information.

Anne Marije de Goeijen

Alumna

“I work as an advisor at a research centre for language development. We conduct practice-oriented research into language proficiency, we give workshops and advice, and we develop teaching materials. For example, we do research into how you can best support newcomers in our educational system and how you can ensure that they are given the same opportunities. We also conduct research on adult education. We look, for instance, at the development of literacy and digital skills and we give workshops in stimulating language development on the work floor."

Your career prospects

Do you want to follow a full academic programme? After obtaining your bachelor’s degree you can continue with a master’s programme. Once you have successfully completed your master’s you will have earned the title Master of Arts (MA). Your master’s diploma will increase your chances of finding a job or academic-level position.
Read more about our Master's programmes

Your future workplace will depend upon your interests, knowledge and skills, and on the elective choices you’ve made during your study. Students who complete this programme find themselves prepared for a wide range of sectors and occupations.
Read more about your career prospects

Humanities Career Event

Each year, the Faculty of Humanities organises a Humanities Career Event. This all-day event is your chance to learn everything you can about how to find the job you want and successfully attain it. The event includes workshops on a wide range of topics as well as opportunities to network with alumni and potential employers and attain tips, information and potential job leads. Check out the programme of the 2021 Career Event to get an idea of what such an event involves.

Check out the video of the Humanities Career Event!

Career Service

The Career Service of Leiden University’s Faculty of Humanities will be pleased to give you personal advice and guidance about internships and jobs, as well as courses and workshops in career-planning, job applications and interviews. The advisors can also provide contact details for potential employers. Furthermore, an internship coordinator and career advisor will help you match your interests and abilities with suitable internships and career options. You can contact the Student Career Service during your studies or up to six months after you graduate.