Master of Arts in Applied English Linguistics
The Open University of Hong Kong
To meet the growing demand of professionals and individuals wishing to improve their English skills, the Open University of Hong Kong (OUHK) has launched the master of arts in applied English linguistics. Classes will begin in September 2012.
The programme leader, Dr Emily Poon Wai-yee, says that the course takes a practical approach towards training students.
"Similar programmes at other institutions place a strong emphasis on language education and pedagogic issues. Our programme focuses on offering solutions to language-related real life problems," she says. "Students will critically evaluate the linguistic features of different types of texts in various professional settings, and different socio-linguistic contexts, such as education, translation and legal," Poon says, adding that OUHK will also train students to do research based on the theoretical and empirical investigation of real life problems, in which language is central.
The programme is suitable for those with an interest in English and professionals in language-related fields, such as language teachers, translators, editors, media workers and administrators. "The aim of the programme is to give students a critical awareness of the role of language in addressing real-world problems in different contexts," says Poon.
Experts in applied English linguistics will teach the programme, including Professor Winnie Cheng from the department of English at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Professor Andy Kirkpatrick of the department of English at the Hong Kong Institute of Education, Professor Martin Warren of the department of English at the PolyU, and Professor Jonathan Webster from the department of Chinese, translation and linguistics at the City University of Hong Kong.
Full-time students will be able to complete the programme in one year, and part-time students in two years. The programme will be delivered face-to-face on weekday evenings and weekend afternoons or evenings.
Students must complete 60 credits to graduate. Most of the subjects will be taught through assignments and examinations. Applicants should have a bachelor's degree from a recognised tertiary institution.
An information seminar will be held on February 25, 2012 at 4.00pm at the OUHK Ho Man Tin campus to provide more details.
