FORENSIC LINGUISTICS IN THE CURRICULUM OF UNIVERSITY STUDIES: NEEDS, POTENTIALS, AND LIMITATIONS

Abstract

This article discusses forensic linguistics as a field of linguistics that due to its potential may be implemented into university curricula. It aims to present the possibilities of this branch, as well as its needs and confinements. The article starts with a brief historical example of using forensic linguistics in practice and is followed by an outline of the field itself – its fundamental aspects and specific relationship with law. Further, there is a description of the potential and needs of forensic science; a given part includes numerous examples of how this field addresses such aspects of the developing world as hate speech or cybersecurity. Moreover, it emphasizes how university curricula and potential students would benefit from implementing courses connected with this field into the program. It is also pointed out what limitations are linked with forensic linguistics. The article ends with a conclusion regarding the relationship between such a fast-developing field and the growing demand that would be satisfied due to implementing forensic linguistic courses into university curricula.

Keywords

• forensic linguistics
• linguistic studies
• university
• curriculum