There are many linguistics associations available to join for those who study linguistics professionally or as a hobby. These groups allow discussion and debate on the study of linguistics, as well as provide job leads and educational guidance for those in the profession. One such group is called Linguist List; it is an international online community for linguists. In addition to offering job leads and a social outlet for linguists, Linguist List also provides fellowships for graduate students pursuing this field of study. Another linguistics association is the Linguistic Society of America, which is a more formal group encouraging membership and led by a board of directors.
Some linguistics associations are geared toward improving one's linguistic skills by study. An example of this type of association is Toastmasters, which provides a supportive environment for adults to learn to give speeches and improve their ability to speak in front of audiences. By encouraging and fostering a supportive environment, students critique each others' speaking skills, syntax, grammar and ability to communicate meaning while helping to grow confidence in public speaking.
While linguistics associations may appear to be geared toward adults, there are many programs available for children as well. Preschool and early education classes for children offer opportunities to learn human language skills including syntax and grammar, and teachers study students' ability to grasp language in an effort to educate.
Almost every major United States university offers a linguistics program. Many schools offer advanced degrees in linguistics as well, allowing students the opportunity attain a master's degree or a doctorate degree in the study of human language. Within these school, there are a variety of linguistics clubs for both social and educational purposes.