Communication

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication at The Chinese University of Hong Kong offers students a comprehensive education in the fundamental theories and practical skills essential for effective communication in today's dynamic media landscape. This programme is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the role of communication in society, including the cultural, social, political, and technological factors that influence how information is created, disseminated, and received. Throughout the course of study, students will explore a wide range of topics such as media theories, journalism, public relations, advertising, new media technologies, and strategic communication.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience, enabling students to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and creative problem-solving abilities. Students have opportunities to engage in practical projects, internships, and collaborations with industry professionals, preparing them for careers in media production, corporate communication, digital media, and related fields. The programme also encourages students to understand the ethical considerations and societal impacts of communication practices.

In addition to core coursework, students can tailor their academic journey through elective modules that focus on specialized areas such as social media management, visual communication, intercultural communication, and media law. The programme fosters a multicultural learning environment, reflecting Hong Kong's vibrant, diverse society and positioning graduates to excel in global communication contexts.

By the end of their studies, students will have developed a broad skill set including effective written and oral communication, media literacy, research expertise, and digital proficiency. The Bachelor of Arts in Communication aims to cultivate innovative and responsible communicators who can adapt to the rapid changes in the media industry and contribute positively to society. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in journalism, public relations, advertising, media production, corporate communication, and other related fields, or for further academic pursuits in communication-related disciplines.

Course List

The course list is only a list of courses recognized by the Division as credit bearing which can be counted towards the degree, and not every course on the list are opened to all students and offered every year. Students should refer to individual programme timetables for courses offered to students of different programmes every year.

• Topical Studies in Communication I, II, lll, IV
• Globalization and Communication
• Political Communication
• Communication Theories
• Seminar on Thesis Development
• Statistical Analysis in Communication
• Quantitative Communication Research
• Qualitative Communication Research
• Strategic Analysis of Media Industries
• Communicating with Consumer Publics
• Public Relations for Risk Industries
• Public Relations Writing
• Public Relations Campaigns and Cases
• Investor Relations
• Media Management
• Media Economics
• Applied Communication Research
• Crisis Management
• Corporate Communication
• Topical Studies in Corporate Communication l, ll, lll, IV, V
• Interpersonal and Group Communication
• Strategic Public Relations in Greater China
• Communication in Intercultural Settings
• Conflict Resolution
• Chinese News Writing and Reporting
• English News Writing and Reporting
• Media Ethics and Law
• Topical Studies in Journalism I, II
• Financial Reporting and Writing
• Online and Mobile Journalism
• Citizen Journalism
• Analyzing Public Affairs
• Journalism Theory and Analysis
• Photography for Journalists
• Radio and Television News
• Radio Studio Production
• Feature Writing
• Seminar in Communication Theories
• Comparative Media Systems and Global Media
• Developing and Selling International Media Content
• Public Relations and Globalization
• Setting the Agenda through Social Media
• Human Rights and Social Media
• Negotiating Across Cultures
• New Media and Society
• Strategic Management in Global Media Corporations
• Topical Studies in Global Communication I, II
• Understanding Culture through Film
• Public Relations: Theories and Practices
• Theories in Advertising and Communication
• Creative Works: Appreciation and Strategy
• Legal and Ethical Aspects in Advertising
• Creative Television Advertising Production
• Applied Advertising Copywriting
• Topcial Studies in Advertising I, II
• Advertising in China
• Advanced Advertising Art Direction
• New Media Entrepreneurship
• New Communication Technologies: Trends & Impacts
• Media Economics and ICTs
• Fundamentals in Multimedia Design
• Telecommunications Policy
• New Media Content Development
• Digital Entertainment Design and Development
• The Business of Entertainment
• Music Industry in the Digital Age
• Issues of ICTs in China
• Topical Studies in New Media I, II
• New Media Analytics
• Entertainment Media in the Digital Age
• Cybercrime and Law
• New Media Ecology
• Independent Studies in Communication
• Multivariate Analysis in Communication
• Communication Patterns in Chinese Society
• Global and Comparative Communication
• Social Theories for Communication Research
• Advanced Multivariate Analysis in Communication
• Advanced Qualitative Communication Research
• Strategies for Integrated Communication Campaigns
• Advanced Chinese News Writing and Reporting
• Advanced English News Writing and Reporting
• Public Affairs Reporting
• Independent Study
• Media Analysis and Planning
• Consumer Behaviour and Audience Analysis
• Account Planning and Advertising Management
• Branding and Marketing Communication
• Graduation Project
• Creative Technologies Design and Management
• Multi-disciplinary Approach to Information Technologies
• Directed Study in New Media Project
• Thesis in Progress

Requirements

• Preference will be given to applicants with a solid background in social science and well-developed research interest in journalism/communication.
• All applicants MUST have a minimum TOEFL score of 580 (or computer-based score of 237 or internet-based score of 92) or a minimum IELTS score of 7
• A research proposal;
• Three letters of reference from academic sources, and
• Good undergraduate academic records.

Scholarships

• Full-time students may receive teaching assistantships or postgraduate studentships.

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication at The Chinese University of Hong Kong offers students a comprehensive understanding of the core principles and practices involved in the field of communication. The programme is designed to equip students with the essential skills needed for effective message production, media literacy, and critical analysis of communication processes across various platforms and cultural contexts. It emphasizes the development of both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, preparing graduates for careers in media, public relations, advertising, corporate communication, and related fields.

Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including media theory, communication technology, interpersonal communication, intercultural communication, media law and ethics, and digital media. The curriculum includes coursework in research methods, media analysis, and communication strategies, fostering analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students also have opportunities for hands-on learning through internships, media production projects, and seminars led by industry professionals, ensuring they gain real-world experience.

The programme is supported by a faculty of renowned scholars and practitioners in communication and media studies, providing mentorship and guiding students in their academic and professional growth. The university's strong connections with media organizations and communication firms in Hong Kong and beyond enable students to network and pursue relevant internships and employment opportunities. The programme also encourages interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to incorporate perspectives from sociology, psychology, business, and technology.

Graduates of the Communication programme at CUHK are well-prepared for careers in media production, journalism, marketing, advertising, corporate communication, and public affairs. Many alumni hold influential positions in media organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, and private companies. The programme's focus on critical thinking, ethical awareness, and innovative communication strategies make it relevant in the rapidly evolving media landscape, both locally and internationally. Overall, it offers a rigorous academic foundation combined with practical training, empowering students to become effective communicators and critical consumers of media content.