A linguist is an etymologist, or a specialist in the study of words. To work as an etymologist, one typically needs several advanced degrees in English, linguistics, phonetics, or other related fields. To become an etymologist, he or she must first complete the educational requirements, then conduct research and publish the results. Etymologists are typically employed by research firms or educational institutions.
An individual must first complete high school and a bachelor’s degree before pursuing a master’s or doctorate in the study of words. The bachelor’s degree should be in linguistics or a related field. Many people who major in literature, journalism, creative or professional writing, education, library science, or communications go on to graduate school to study linguistics. It is possible to be accepted into a linguists program without one of these degrees, especially if your professional goals and academic passion for the subject are detailed in a well-written admissions essay.
Carefully select your graduate school and courses. Look for programs that have etymologists and linguists as professors. This will improve your ability to concentrate on the history of common words and linguistic fundamentals. If you want to be an etymologist, you must understand these fundamental concepts.
English or linguistics are common labels for relevant courses. Etymology encompasses the study of phonetics, syntax, and grammar. “History of the English Language” or “Historical Linguistics” are examples of courses that look into the evolution of a language. Anthropological and cultural studies are frequently included in linguistic studies.
The Oxford English Dictionary is one of the first texts you will encounter if you are studying the English language (OED). This dictionary is the most comprehensive collection of English words ever created. It was written with the assistance of thousands of volunteers who painstakingly researched the earliest known instance of a word appearing in print, a date that roughly corresponds to the word’s birth.
While pursuing your master’s degree, you are unlikely to conduct much original research. You could help your professors with primary research or conduct secondary research on your own. However, you should be actively participating in and leading research while pursuing your doctorate. Your professors will be available to offer advice and feedback on research techniques during this time. Before completing your Ph.D., you should also publish your work.
Your doctoral research will prepare you for the real world of etymology. Following your graduation and certification as an etymologist, you will conduct your own research, most likely on your own time and with your own funds. You can establish your reputation as a scholar by publishing your work and speaking at professional conferences and educational institutions.
If at all possible, seek a position as a professor at a research university. This will enable you to conduct research with the assistance of university grants and funding, as well as students. While teaching at a university or college, many etymologists produce their best work.