Why Language Science & Technology?

Computational Linguistics (CL) is a discipline between linguistics and computer science which is concerned with the computational aspects of the human language faculty. It belongs to the cognitive sciences and overlaps with the field of Artificial Intelligence.

Theoretical CL (Language Science) takes up issues in theoretical linguistics and cognitive science. It deals with formal theories about the linguistic knowledge that a human needs for generating and understanding language. Today these theories have reached a degree of complexity that can only be managed by employing computers. We develop formal models simulating aspects of the human language faculty and implement them as computer programs.

Prof. Pinkal working on a dialogue system in a car simulation.

Applied CL (Language Technology) focusses on the practical outcome of modelling human language use. Although existing systems are far from achieving human ability, they have numerous practical applications. The goal is to create software products that have some knowledge of human language. Such products are going to change our lives. They are urgently needed for improving human-machine interaction since the main obstacle in the interaction between humans and computers is a communication problem.

In the LST Masters Program you will have the opportunity to study and research at one of the world's leading centers for CL and to specialize depending on your own individual interests. The practical orientation of the work is another important aspect in Saarbrücken. It will enable you to gain excellent hands-on experience that will prepare you for a successful career in the industry or the academic domain.