The development of applications requires not only technical innovation, but also deep knowledge and intelligent treatment of human languages and cognition. Human Language Technology is an area of research, study and development concerned with the relationship between human language and machines. It is an interdisciplinary field combining Linguistics, Cognitive Science and Artificial Intelligence. It addresses questions such as: How can Siri, Apple's virtual assistant, communicate with us? How can a computer be taught to play Jeopardy? What does it take for Google Translate to be able to translate Chinese texts into Maltese? 

The University of Malta's B.Sc. programme in Human Language Technology (HLT) offered by the Institute of Linguistics is aimed at students with a Science background (including IT and Mathematics), as well as students who have a background in Humanities subjects, especially languages. However, all students are expected to take an interest in computer programming and work to develop their skills in this area.  

The programme includes Foundations of Computing and Linguistics, state-of-the-art topics in Machine Learning, Web Development and Speech Technology, Industry and project placements.

Classes are small and each student has an academic mentor throughout the course.

Career prospects are good. Many companies, both locally and abroad, seek specialists in HLT to research and design new products. The B.Sc. also gives the student a thorough grounding in linguistics so one can also choose a career in a language-focused field, such as translation.

A degree in HLT opens doors for further postgraduate study, from Master to Ph.D. level, both in Malta and abroad.

For more information phone on 2340 2151; email: [email protected]