Linguistics and Translation

The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Translation at City University of Hong Kong offers students a comprehensive program designed to develop their understanding of language structure, language use, and the art of translation across diverse linguistic contexts. This interdisciplinary programme combines theoretical foundations in linguistics with practical skills in translation, preparing graduates for careers in global communication, language services, and cultural exchange. Throughout the course, students will explore core topics such as phonetics, phonology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, gaining a deep insight into the functioning of human language. They will also acquire practical translation abilities, focusing on translating texts between Chinese and English, as well as other languages, emphasizing accuracy, cultural sensitivity, and contextual understanding. The program encourages critical thinking and analytical skills through coursework, projects, and internships, fostering an appreciation of linguistic diversity and intercultural competence. Students will have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including language laboratories and translation suites, and benefit from a faculty composed of experienced linguists and translation professionals. The curriculum also includes opportunities for overseas exchanges, internships with translation agencies, and involvement in research projects, enabling students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped to pursue careers in translation, language teaching, speech therapy, publishing, or further academic study. The emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical experience ensures that students develop a balanced skill set that meets the demands of the contemporary globalized workplace. With its strong emphasis on bilingual competence and cross-cultural understanding, the Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Translation at City University of Hong Kong aims to cultivate proficient language professionals capable of bridging communication gaps across cultures and languages worldwide.

• Departmental Research Student Seminar
• Electives
• Apart from the electives listed above, research degree students can choose to take other postgraduate courses offered by academic departments at CityU or by other local tertiary institutions, subject to the approval by their home department.
• Teaching Students: First Steps
• Thesis

The thesis will be a research report which will identify issues that are important to the understanding of the chosen area of study, review the relevant theories and previous research that will inform the study and discuss the key issues and concepts involved.  The thesis should be systematically organized and well-documented and should advance understanding of some important issues in the area of study.

Requirements

• Hold a relevant bachelor’s degree with first or second class honours (or equivalent qualification) from a recognised university.
• Applicants from an institution where the language of teaching is not English should satisfy the minimum English proficiency requirements specified by both the University and individual Colleges and Schools. The University’s minimum English proficiency requirement for research degree programmes is 593 (paper-based test) or 243 (computerbased test) or 95 (internet-based test) in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) OR an overall band score of 7.0 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Equivalent qualifications are also acceptable. 
• Official certificates and transcripts of academic qualifications (Certificates and transcripts that are not in English should be accompanied by a formal certified translation in English.) [Applicants who obtained degrees from institutions that gave degree classification and/or grade point average but are not shown in the certificate or transcript are required to also send copies of any other official documents that indicate their formal degree classification or grade point average.]
• Certificates of professional qualifications, if applicable (Certificates that are not in English should be accompanied by a formal certified translation in English.) 
• (In support of the applicant’s publication record, if applicable) the front page of the papers (for papers that have been published) or the letter of acceptance (for papers that have been accepted for publication). [Applicants to the School of Law must also submit a self-assessment (of not more than 400 words) of their publications together with full copies of their best three publications. Where any publication so submitted is in a language other than English, it must be accompanied by an abstract in English.]
• Nominate two academic referees who can comment on their academic performances (proposed supervisor and persons from non-academic circles are normally not acceptable as academic referees). 
• A non-refundable application fee of HK$200 will be charged for each online application. Settlement of the application fee shall be made via online credit card payment.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• Postgraduate Studentship
• Research Tuition Scholarship
• Conference Grant
• Research Activities Fund
• Chow Yei Ching School of Graduate Studies Entrance Scholarships

The Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Translation at City University of Hong Kong offers students a comprehensive education in the fields of linguistics, translation, and related language studies. The programme is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in the theoretical aspects of language, including phonetics, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics, as well as practical skills in translation and interpretation. Students will have the opportunity to develop proficiency in Chinese and English, as well as exposure to other languages, preparing them for diverse career paths in translation agencies, publishing, international organizations, and academia. The curriculum includes core courses in linguistic analysis, translation techniques, computer-assisted translation tools, and language technology, ensuring graduates are well-versed in the latest developments in the field. Additionally, students can participate in internships and exchange programmes to gain practical experience and global perspectives. The programme aims to foster critical thinking, cultural awareness, and cross-disciplinary skills, enabling graduates to adapt to the dynamic needs of the language industry. With a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical application, the programme prepares students for further studies or immediate employment in linguistics, translation, and related areas. The faculty comprises experienced linguists and professional translators committed to providing high-quality education and research. Upon completion, students will be competent in translating a wide range of texts, conducting linguistic research, and applying language technology solutions. The programme is suitable for students interested in languages, cultures, and communication, and who wish to develop a career in international communication, language services, or research.