For Hang Ren, the most important factor in choosing a master’s programme was finding a way to connect her interests in language and communication. At JYU, she found the Master’s Programme in Language, Globalization and Intercultural Communication (LAGIC), which explores both through courses in linguistics, intercultural communication, and discourse studies. At first, Hang found the programme somewhat demanding, but it gradually led to a deeper understanding of language’s role in society. Now she sees language as something that constantly interacts with the surrounding world.
The biggest motivation that drove me to choose the LAGIC programme was my interests. When I was looking for a master’s programme, I wanted to find one that could connect my interests in language and communication. The Master’s Programme in Language, Globalization and Intercultural Communication at JYU matched what I had been hoping for. I believed it could offer a space for me to explore, for example, how language works in global and intercultural contexts, and how it shapes the way people understand each other. So that's why I am here now.
What makes the blend of language and communication studies so captivating?
The LAGIC programme offers a variety of courses in linguistics, intercultural communication, globalization, discourse studies, and research methods. It also includes optional courses in even more fields. In earlier years, students could choose between a Language Track and a Communication Track. From my cohort onward, these two tracks were merged into one.
I remember hesitating about which track I would have chosen, since I was curious about the language-focused side but also wanted to dive deeper into communication studies. Now that the structure has changed, we study both areas together, which provides a broad view of how language and communication intersect.
During the first semester, I realised that the courses focus more on the social and cultural dimensions of language than I had imagined.
My first impression of the programme was that it felt broad and quite academic. I was curious but also a little unsure about what to expect because it combines both language and communication perspectives. During the first semester, I realised that the courses focus more on the social and cultural dimensions of language than I had imagined.
It was interesting but also challenging at times. For instance, the Discourse Analysis course that we had in our first semester was new to me.
Understanding the power of language in society
The weekly assignments required analysing real examples of language use. It was a bit difficult and abstract for me, so I sometimes felt lost in the beginning. But discussing ideas with classmates and asking for advice helped a lot.
Now, I see language as something that constantly interacts with the world around us.
What I enjoy most about this programme is learning how language connects to society. We explore topics such as how language use reflects gender and power relations, or how accents can reveal social ideologies. It’s different from the language learning I was used to before, which focused on grammar and pronunciation. Now, I see language as something that constantly interacts with the world around us.
Read more: Master's Degree Programme in Language, Globalization and Intercultural Communication
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