Master of Arts in Applied English Linguistics (MAEL)-graduate

Programme Information

The Master of Arts in Applied English Linguistics (MAEL) is an exciting new postgraduate programme jointly offered by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU). Building on the strong foundation of HKBU’s renowned Master of Arts in Language Studies (MALS), this programme offers a fresh, interdisciplinary approach.

The MAEL aims to cultivate graduates with advanced expertise in applied English linguistics and the ability to critically and creatively engage with emerging trends in language, culture, and technology. Its forward-thinking curriculum integrates perspectives from linguistics, language education, intercultural communication, and digital humanities to address real-world challenges.

You will gain strong theoretical grounding and practical skills in analysing language use, discourse, and pedagogy. You will also master new research methodologies and digital analytical tools essential for today’s linguistic inquiry. The programme opens doors to diverse academic and professional pathways including PhD studies in linguistics and language education, as well as careers in language teaching, media communication, intercultural communication, digital humanities and language technology. Upon fulfilling all programme requirements, students will be awarded the degree of Master of Arts in Applied English Linguistics by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU). Start your journey with a globally recognised qualification.

Study Mode	Full-Time	Part-Time
Study Period	1 year	2 years
Credit Unit Requirements for Graduation	Students must complete a total of 27 units, including 15 units of Core Courses and 12 units of Elective Courses.
Tuition Fee	RMB 170,000 per student (Enrolled in 2027-28 Academic Year)
Application Fee	RMB 400 for each application
Official Medium of Instruction	English
Study Location	Beijing Normal – Hong Kong Baptist University (Zhuhai, Guangdong Province)

Please click here for details of the concentration.

Admission Requirements
Academic Requirement
Holder of a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized higher education institution.

Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English, or previous degree not obtained with English as medium of instruction are required to prove their English proficiency by providing any of the following English test results:
- CET-6 (College English Test Band 6): 500 or above; or
- An overall band score of 6.5 or above in IELTS(Academic); or
- A minimum TOEFL score of 550 (paper-based) or 79 (Internet-based); or
- Grade D in AS Use of English (HKALE); or
- Level 4 in English Language (HKDSE).
*Test results of IELTS Indicator/IELTS One Skill Retake, TOEFL-iBT Home Edition or Duolingo English Test will not be considered.
Required Application Materials

Required Application Materials

1) Official Academic Transcript
Either in Chinese or in English, with the official stamp of the university. If the transcript does not indicate the Cumulative Grade Point Average (cGPA) and the full scale Grade Point Average (GPA), proof of cGPA or full scale GPA should be provided.
2) University Degree and Graduation Certificate
Scanned copies of the original documents are required; a graduating student can provide a letter of enrollment status with the official stamp of the university.
3) Two Reference Letters (two submission options)
1. Upload the recommendation letters with the referee’s signature directly (either in Chinese or English);
2. Provide the referee’s valid official email address; the referee will receive an email and upload the recommendation letter as required.
4) English Proficiency Test Report
Provide the corresponding English proficiency test report according to the English requirements of each programme;if the medium of instruction at the applicant's previous university was English, students can provide a proof of English as the medium of instruction.
5) Personal Statement
Either in Chinese or in English, within 500 words. Please fill in your personal statement in the designated location in the application system. Attachment uploaded is not accepted.
6) Scanned Copy of Identity Document
Students from the Chinese mainland: ID card (both sides);
Students from Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan: Mainland Travel Permit;
International student: Passport.
7) CV
Either in Chinese or in English.
8) Any Other Supporting Documents (not compulsory)
Including but not limited to: professional qualification certificates, and award certificates, portfolio (published papers, personal websites, etc.), if any.
Contact us

If you have any questions regarding application, please contact:

Phone: 0756-3620377
Email: gstpg@bnbu.edu.cn

If you have any questions regarding the programme, please contact:

Phone: 0756-3620910
Email:mael@bnbu.edu.cn

For more information, please scan the official QR Code of Graduate School below:
Q&A

Do I need to attend an interview?

The admission selection process varies among programmes. In case an interview is required, shortlisted applicants will be informed by the Faculty/School directly.