Overview

Language is key in every human endeavours. It is a number one currency for every speech community to navigate all their activities. Language can be viewed in two main perspectives namely verbal and non-verbal. Language is a multifaceted phenomenon and as such linguists have defined it variously and as Osisanwo (2003) puts “language is a human vocal noise or the arbitrary graphic representation of this noise, used systematically and conventionally by members of speech community for purposes of communication.”

The definition clearly shows that language is a human phenomenon which is basically vocal.

Language does not exist in a vacuum but in a landscape called speech community, where language users communicate with one another. Language exists but not all language users communicate effectively via the vehicle of language. Thus, language and communication interfaced in the Department of Language and Communication Sciences, where scholars converge to teach, research and engage in community service.

The Department houses six accredited undergraduate programs of which four are taught as major programs and the rest as minor program and communication skills. The major programs are Akan Language and Culture, French and Francophone Studies, Linguistics, Media and Communication Studies and the minor and the communication skills are Chinese language, Spanish and German language which commences in the next academic year. MA, MPhil and PhD French and Francophone Studies have been the long existing postgraduate program in the Department over the years. MPhil Linguistics commences in earnest in the 2025/2026 academic session with exquisite courses that is unique to KNUST only! Plans to start postgraduate programs in Akan Language and Culture, and Media and Communication Studies is underway. The Department runs short courses in all the programs. The short courses serve members of the university and its environs. They are Akan Proficiency, French Proficiency, Chinese Proficiency, Spanish Proficiency, Public Relations (Crisis Management), Journalism (News Writing & Reporting). A proficiency certificate is issued after the eight intensive weeks of training. It is a flexible hybrid program.

Language and Communication Department is one of the largest departments in KNUST. It has dynamic, highly esteemed and internationally acclaimed scholars, who are passionate about teaching, research and community service.