Programme Aims & Learning Outcomes

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) Programme in English and Applied Linguistics (BAEAL) aims to nurture students with the abilities/attributes they will need to become competent English language professionals and responsible global citizens in the 21st century. At the professional level, the programme aims to produce graduates with a) a high level of competence in English, b) a sound understanding of the theoretical disciplines underlying applied English language studies and the integrated use of languages concerned, and c) a strong ability to apply their knowledge and generic linguistic skills in a variety of professional communication contexts.

The programme will equip students with professional/academic knowledge and skills as well as attributes for all-roundedness in an integrated manner. The programme aims to produce graduates:

• who possess a high level of professional communicative competence in English;
• who have a firm grounding in linguistic sciences which can be critically and creatively applied in a variety of business and management contexts;
• who have an awareness and understanding of intercultural communication in multilingual settings that enhances their global outlook and cultural appreciation as socially responsible global citizens;
• who can apply strong communication skills to solve real-world problems effectively in local and global multilingual professional/business settings;
• who are capable of exercising judgement and developing intellectual curiosity to work both independently and as part of a team;
• who are aware of the need for and are committed to life-long learning; and
• who will have the potential to become future ethical leaders and entrepreneurs excelling in communication for professional purposes.

Characteristics

The programme offers students a Work-Integrated Education (WIE) placement opportunity in Hong Kong, the Chinese mainland or overseas.

Professional Recognition

The BA(Hons) in English and Applied Linguistics (BAEAL) is currently being considered for recognition by the Education Bureau of Hong Kong and its Standing Committee on Language Education and Research as an English Language Major Degree Programme that meets the Hong Kong government’s Language Proficiency Requirement. Registered students are eligible to apply for the Scholarship for Prospective English Teachers offered by the Education Bureau.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the Department of English are successful in their careers and excel in various industries and professions in Hong Kong. Fresh graduates find employment in media and journalism, retail, human resources, public relations, marketing and advertising, publishing, education and the civil service, where a high level of competence in English and professional communication is needed.

Further Studies

Some graduates proceed to further studies in Hong Kong and overseas in the fields of linguistics, applied linguistics, translation and interpreting, communication, and public and environmental policy studies.