Some linguists are interested primarily in devising theories to explain why languages are the way they are and how the human mind shapes language. Other linguists are more concerned with the practical, such as teaching a second language, working as a sign language interpreter or programming a computer to handle linguistic information. The BA provides students with a grounding in Linguistics, the scientific study of natural human language. Linguistics contributes significantly to our understanding of what it means to be human. It is a broad field, covering all aspects of cognitive and social functioning. Linguists study modern languages, ancient languages and endangered languages. They carry out these studies in the classroom, in computer, psychology, and speech laboratories, in fieldwork throughout the world, and in settings where languages are interpreted.