What is Computer Science and Language?

The Computer Science and Language (CSL) degree combines computer science with the mastery of a particular language (French, German or Irish) and with the study of linguistics, which is the scientific study of language in general and the associated technologies concerning language. The chosen language (French, German or Irish) is studied to degree level, with emphasis on aural, oral and written fluency.

This course develops a unique combination of skills – technical, mathematical, analytical and communicative. In doing so, it provides two of the most sought after skills today: degree-level fluency in a second language and a degree in computing, opening up hosts of future career possibilities. Many of these careers also involve the third degree-level strand of the course – linguistics. Predictive text in telephones, automatic speech recognition in directory enquiries, and machine translation are just three examples of technologies that derive from computational linguistics; countless others are on the horizon.

Computer Science and Language: The course for you?

This course will appeal to students with strengths in analytical reasoning and an affinity for mastering languages, but who do not want to choose between arts and sciences. While the course involves 50% focus on mathematics and computing, 25% on linguistics and 25% on the language, the optional elements allow students considerable flexibility to rebalance their major focus. If you enjoy mathematics, languages and problem solving and are interested in combining topics in creative and insightful ways, then this may be the right course for you.

Computer Science and a Language @ Trinity

This degree is one of the most interdisciplinary on offer, bridging both computer science and the arts. The skills acquired in the study of computing, together with the study of language and linguistics, open doors to world mobility and employability.

Graduate skills and career opportunities

Since the course began in 1985, graduates have moved on to careers that reflect the range of topics within the degree. Graduates will be qualified to work as language specialists, information technologists or software specialists in any of the IT, banking, translation, publishing or multi-media sectors. A number work as software engineers in international consulting firms. Some have embarked on careers in professional translation; others have moved into primary and secondary-level education. About 65% of graduates work in software engineering (whether in a mainly English speaking country or in a country where the language of the degree focus is the primary language); about 25% pursue research careers. A number of graduates now hold academic staff positions in Ireland and abroad. Another 10% tend towards a focus in technical translation. Some graduates have taken up employment in government service, e.g. the European Patent Office and the Irish Diplomatic Corps.