The Department of Linguistics offers two interdisciplinary structured programs for the first degree: (1) computational linguistics: double major track in linguistics and computer science; (2) neurobiology of language: BSc degree in biology and linguistics with emphasis on brain sciences, within the Sagol School of Neuroscience.

Computational linguistics: Double major track for a first degree in linguistics and computer science

The field of computational linguistics involves the development of computational tools for dealing with natural language. The interest in the logical and computational structure of natural language has been part of the field of computer science from its very early days, as well as the practical interest in algorithmic solution for an array of challenges related to machine translation, database searches, text analysis, speech recognition and more. Developments in the fields of information and communication since the 1990s have led to growing interest in computational linguistic not only as an academic research area, but also in the hi-tech industry.

Graduates of the double major track in linguistics and computer science receive an undergraduate degree in both fields. The program prepares outstanding students for an academic research career and for future employment in the hi-tech industry. Studies are based on the programs of both Computer Science and Linguistics. The linguistics program is accelerated, leading the students quickly to advanced courses in formal linguistics.

Admission to the program is based on meeting the admission requirements of both departments. Students will receive personal guidance. For further details, see course program (in Hebrew).

Program advisor: Dr. Roni Katzir.

BSc degree in biology and linguistics with emphasis on brain sciences, within the Sagol School of Neuroscience

The field of neurolinguistics focuses on the research of brain processes involved in the production and processing of natural language, including: processing of language sounds, encoding of word meanings, formation of complex sentences and more. The field employs methodologies and theoretical models from different domains: Linguistics, brain sciences, cognitive psychology and others. Neurolinguistic research is performed using both behavioral measures, such as reaction times, and advanced technologies such as functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG), which allow for real-time tracking of brain activity .The domain of the genetics of language investigates the manner in which the language faculty is encoded within the human genome and the development of this faculty in the human species.

The track in biology and linguistics provides students with in-depth knowledge in biology, brain sciences and theoretical linguistics, as a first step toward an academic research career in each of the fields or for future employment in clinical programs of language disorders and impairments of the language ability, in medical institutions, in research and development of artificial intelligence and the hi-tech industry in general, in biology-based industries, biotechnology and more.

Students will receive guidance from a faculty member of the Sagol School of Brain Science. A number of scholarships will be granted to excellent students at the end of each academic year. For further details, see course program (in Hebrew).

Program advisor: Dr. Aya Meltzer-Asscher.