Programme Introduction
Explore Scientific Studies with our Linguistics Programme
The Linguistics major programme offers basic training in contemporary theories of language and addresses such issues as the universal properties of natural language and the human mind, language acquisition in different modes and modalities, and language in different contexts of use.
Students are encouraged to apply linguistic theories to the investigation of a wide variety of languages, including endangered languages, minority languages and sign language.
They gain an appreciation of linguistics as an interdisciplinary discipline transcending the traditional boundary between the humanities and the sciences, drawing ideas and tools from the core disciplines of cognitive science.
At the practical level, linguistics training raises students’ bilingual and multilingual awareness and sharpens their sensitivity towards the complexity of human language. This training builds the linguistic resources necessary for students’ career development and postgraduate studies and enables them to make informed judgments about language issues in their own speech community.
Students are provided with the option to double major in Linguistics and Translation or Linguistics and Psychology, and to study in the dual-degree programme organised with Peking University.
Ranking
#25 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 (#1 in Hong Kong)
#66 in the Times Higher Education Ranking by Subject 2026 – Languages, Literature and Linguistics (#2 in Hong Kong)
Craft Your Path
Our programme enjoys the status of a recognised programme in the Government of the HKSAR’s Standing Committee on Language Education and Research (SCOLAR) list of recognised English Language major degree programmes. Graduates of our programme are exempted from the English Language Proficiency Assessment Test for English teachers required by the Education Bureau of the Government of the HKSAR upon completion of the relevant teacher training.
Option for Dual Degrees
4-year Linguistics major students are offered an option to double major in Linguistics and Translation or Linguistics and Psychology.
Local students admitted to our 4-year Linguistics major programme are also offered an option to participate in a dual-degree programme with Peking University, studying for two years on each campus. Upon successful fulfilment of the graduation requirements of both universities, the students obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics from CUHK and a Bachelor of Arts in Chinese Language from Peking University.
Career Prospects
Our Linguistics programme offers experiential learning beyond the classroom, including language surveys in the field and overseas exposure opportunities. Graduates possess high proficiency in English, Cantonese and written Chinese, and thrive in diverse sectors, such as business, education and community work. In the past five years, our alumni have showcased the programme’s influence, ensuring success in various fields:
- Business Sector: Approximately 33.4%
- Education Sector: About 41.6%
- Social & Public Organizations: Around 25%
If you are interested in this programme, please review the application requirements and deadlines specific to the respective admission scheme to increase your chances of getting accepted.
