This major aims to educate students so that they will become language professionals who are familiar with linguistics and language-related applications. Students will also develop an analytical, critical and creative mind and an open attitude towards people from different cultures.

This major provides students with a solid foundation in the scientific study of human language. Students will be prepared for careers that require language expertise and language-related computing skills. In addition to opportunities in advanced studies, graduates will have employment prospects in education and research, as well as in administrative and executive positions in various public and private sectors. They will have an important role to play in language and information service sectors of Hong Kong, Greater China, and world-wide. Moreover, this major is recognized by the Education Bureau as an English language major degree for the purpose of teaching in Hong Kong (subject to approval by EDB).

There are two main subject areas: Linguistics and Language Applications.

• Core courses in Linguistics include: Fundamentals of Linguistics, Introduction to Linguistic Research, Language in Society, Language and Mind, Phonetics, Phonology, Morphology and Syntax, and Semantics and Pragmatics.
• Core courses in Language Applications include: Introduction to Language Technology, Computational Linguistics, and Project 1.
• At a more advanced level, students may choose from among courses such as Computational Lexicography, Computer-Assisted Language Learning, Conversation Analysis, Corpus Linguistics, Experimental Phonetics, First/Second Language Acquisition, Psycholinguistics, Sociolinguistics, and Project II.

Participating in the internships and other co-curricular activities offered provides valuable job experience in fields that require knowledge of languages, linguistics, and language applications.

Exchange programmes provide students with opportunities to gain experience of studying and living abroad for a semester, by paying the local tuition fees.

The Department of Linguistics and Translation (LT) also offers two Joint Bachelor's Degree Programmes with National Taiwan University and Columbia University. Students can get 2 degrees by studying two years in LT and two years at a partner university. For detailed information, please visit https://lt.cityu.edu.hk/programmes-courses/cityu-talents-programme-hk-tech-tiger/joint-bachelors-degree-programmes.

Direct Admission to Joint Bachelor’s Degree Programme with Columbia University

Starting in 2026/27, JUPAS applicants can directly apply for Year 1 entry to the prestigious Joint Bachelor’s Degree Programme offered by CityUHK and Columbia University. Graduates will earn degrees from both institutions. A separate application to Columbia University is required after submitting the JUPAS application.

Students may also opt for double majors within CityUHK and major plus minor programme or CityUHK Talents Programme (HK TECH Tiger) https://lt.cityu.edu.hk/programmes-courses/cityu-talents-programme-hk-tech-tiger).

Remarks:
Programme features subject to the University's approval

Useful Links:

Useful Information for JUPAS Applicants
Assessment of Applications
Interview Arrangements
Flexible Admission Arrangement for JUPAS Applicants
Special Consideration for JUPAS Applicants
CityUHK Scholarships for Hong Kong Talents
CityUHK Tiger Programme
JUPAS Admissions Score Reference

HK$ 47,000