In the Master of Arts in English Studies programme, students will expand their knowledge of English language and develop a critical understanding of theory and research in English linguistics, literature, and culture. Students will analyze the role of languages in diverse sociocultural contexts and multilingual societies and become attentive to language variation in social and professional contexts. They will also have the opportunity to deepen their knowledge of English language by engaging with key issues in literary and cultural studies. The programme's two streams work together to build a multifaceted knowledge of English language, which is a sought-after skill in many professional contexts. Upon completing the programme, students will be better prepared for English language teaching or for further academic study. The programme benefits from faculty with a range of international and regional research and teaching experience.

To be eligible for admission, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements.

Students will often hold a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification in English, TESL, Professional Communication, Education, or a related field. Students from disciplines related to Professional Communication, for example Business Communication, and also other disciplines, may additionally be considered from time to time.

Applicants whose entrance qualification is obtained from an institution where the medium of instruction is not English should also fulfill any one of the following minimum English proficiency requirements:

EITHER overall band 7 in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS)^@; OR a score of 102 (Internet-based test) in the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)^@#. Other evidence of English proficiency will not be accepted.

^@TOEFL and IELTS scores are considered valid for two years.  Applicants are required to provide their English test results obtained within the two years preceding the commencement of the University's application period.

^# Applicants are required to arrange with the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to send their TOEFL results directly to the University. The TOEFL institution code for CityUHK is 3401.

(1) The General Track (no stream) offers a solid foundation in English studies for students interested in an English-related discipline. It prepares students for language-intensive careers requiring higher skills in English or for higher-level research degrees. The general track comprises 3 core courses and 6 electives. 

Table 1: Structure of MAES general track

(2) The Teaching English as a Second Language (TESL) stream provides current or future teachers of English with a background in up-to-date methods of teaching English. Incorporating a suitable mix of theory and practice, this stream will qualify students to take up advanced positions in the English Language Teaching sector on completion of the programme, or will serve as a useful preparation to higher degree studies. The TESL stream comprises 3 core courses, 2 compulsory electives, and 4 other electives. 

Table 2: Structure of TESL stream 

(3) The Literature, Language and Culture (LLC) stream is designed for students who wish to explore and apply English language learning in a broad range of academic and professional contexts. It will provide students with the theoretical and practical tools they need to develop in the areas of literary and cultural studies. Students will investigate the national and transnational character of contemporary literary and cultural production; study a range of genres, theoretical schools, and periods; and have opportunities to conduct research and specialize in specific areas related to English studies. By analyzing the aesthetic aspects of literature, students will also be encouraged to apply creativity to the teaching and learning of English. The LLC stream comprises 3 core courses, 2 compulsory electives, and 4 other electives. 

Table 3: Structure of LLC stream

Programme Descriptions