MA in Applied English Linguistics
Programme Enquiry
Phone: (852) 3943 1983
E-mail: engma@cuhk.edu.hk
Programme Summary
The MA in English (Applied English Linguistics) at The Chinese University of Hong Kong is an intensive one-year (full-time) or two-year (part-time) taught postgraduate programme. We offer a wide range of applied linguistics courses which enable students to use their knowledge about linguistics to achieve real-world purpose or address real-world problems. By the completion of the programme, students will have explored in detail the essential areas of enquiry in applied linguistics and will be able to apply such knowledge to real language use. With a higher level of critical thinking skills and the professional knowledge of applied linguistics, our graduates will get a better chance to advance in education, business, and mass media sectors. Our graduates’ ability to communicate effectively in written and spoken English also becomes their invaluable assets in the overall competitive job market.
See here for a general introduction to applied linguistics.
Who should apply?
This programme is intended for those who have had some exposure to language study or English linguistics and who have a strong interest in these areas. Click here for entrance requirements and learn more about how to apply.
Goals and Objectives
This programme is designed to deepen students understanding of the following topics:
- the role of language in human affairs;
- language cognition and brain research;
- language, culture, socialization, and pragmatics;
- language and technology;
- second language acquisition;
- second and foreign language pedagogy; and
- English language teaching and learning in the context of the pan-Asian region (e.g. Hong Kong, China and Chinese Mainland).
Programme Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
Upon successful completion of the Master of Arts in English Linguistics (MAAEL) programme, graduates will be able to:
PLO 1. Demonstrate an advanced understanding of linguistic theory and applied linguistics, including key concepts, models, and analytical frameworks relevant to the study of English language use and learning.
PLO 2. Apply linguistic knowledge and analytical skills to real‑world teaching, communication, and language‑related contexts, addressing practical issues in educational, professional, and societal settings.
PLO 3. Design and conduct empirical research in applied linguistics, employing appropriate research methodologies, data collection techniques, and analytical tools to investigate language‑related real-world problems.
PLO 4. Critically evaluate language policies, pedagogical practices, and discourse practices, drawing on theoretical perspectives and empirical evidence to inform professional judgement and decision‑making.
PLO 5. Use digital tools and AI‑enabled technologies responsibly and ethically in language education and applied linguistics research, demonstrating awareness of methodological, pedagogical, and societal implications.
PLO 6. Communicate effectively and professionally in academic and workplace contexts through clear, coherent, and well‑structured spoken and written English.
Why study with Us
The MA in English (Applied English Linguistics) at The Chinese University of Hong Kong distinguishes itself from other programmes in the field with the following distinctive features:
- Renowned international teaching staff with local expertise;
- Highly focussed courses on aspects of the English language;
- English-only medium of instruction;
- All courses are assessed by 100% coursework;
- Scholarships for outstanding students;
- Convenient schedule with classes on weekday evenings and Saturday mornings;
- A library with an excellent applied linguistics collection, including a rich database of electronic resources;
- Graduates are eligible for the Professional Development Incentive Grant Scheme for Language Teachers by SCOLAR and for exemption from the Language Proficiency Requirement (English Language) by the Education Bureau;
- Exemptions may be granted upon approval to those with relevant postgraduate qualifications.
The programme also aligns itself with the six broad learning outcomes (LOs) of the Department of English at CUHK:
LO 1: An enriched understanding of literature in English, including its formal qualities and history.
LO 2: A broad understanding of the variety of Englishes around the world, including multicultural and multilinguistic environments.
LO 3: The ability to write high-quality English in a variety of styles and registers.
LO 4: The ability to communicate orally in English to a professional standard.
LO 5: The confidence and capacity to be artistically creative in relation to producing original literary works, staging dramatic performances, and generally participating in the vibrant literary culture of Hong Kong.
LO 6: An open and flexible approach to continuing the learning process for a lifetime.
Preparatory Readings
We highly recommend our applicants to be acquainted with some of the following titles in applied linguistics:
- Braine, G. (2005). Teaching English to the World. New Jersey: Lawrence Erlbaum.
- Brown, H. D. (2007). Principles of language learning and teaching. Pearson Longman.
- Celce-Murcia, M., & Larsen-Freeman, D. (1999). The Grammar Book: An ESL/EFL Teacher’s Course. Boston: Heinle and Heinle.
- Clark, J. John E., Yallop, C., & Fletcher, J. (2007). An introduction to phonetics and phonology. Blackwell Pub.
- Davies, A. (2022). An Introduction to Applied Linguistics: From Practice to Theory. Edinburgh University Press.
- Ellis, R. (2008). The study of second language acquisition. Oxford University Press.
- Gass, S. M., Behney, J., & Plonsky, L. (2020). Second Language Acquisition: An Introductory Course. Taylor & Francis Group.
- Lightbown, P., & Spada, N. M. (2021). How languages are learned. Oxford University Press.
- Valenzuela, H. (2020). Linguistics for TESOL: Theory and Practice. Springer International Publishing.
- VanPatten, B., & Williams, J. (2015). Theories in Second Language Acquisition: An Introduction. New York, NY: Routledge.