Programme Aims

English is a very important subject in Hong Kong. Students of this programme have the opportunity to develop knowledge of English and different methods of teaching English as a second language. The programme is highly practical, requiring students to use English for a variety of academic and professional purposes throughout their five years of study. This programme aims to prepare students who:

• have a high level of proficiency in English by fulfilling the language exit requirement as stipulated by the University;
• have in-depth knowledge of the English language;
• are able to help students in primary schools in Hong Kong to learn English as a second language effectively;
• have lifelong learning skills and are able to appreciate moral, social and cultural values;
• can work collaboratively with students, parents, colleagues, school administrators and other professionals; and
• understand education issues of Hong Kong and will react to educational innovations positively.

English Major

In this domain, students study the English language system (e.g., the English pronunciation system, formation of words, English grammar, etc.), language use in society, how people learn languages, the English language curriculum in Hong Kong, English language teaching skills, literature and drama, etc. To support the English language development of every student, he or she will:

• be assigned an academic advisor;
• undertake two mandatory English language enhancement courses in Year 1;
• undertake the optional International English Language Testing System (IELTS) preparation courses ;
• live and study in an English-speaking country (for the compulsory immersion programme);
• study courses with specific objectives for language improvement; and
• be referred to specialists for intensive language development if there are identified language needs.

Career Prospects/Professional Qualifications

Majoring in English with in-depth academic and professional knowledge, graduates of the programme will have excellent career prospects. They will become fully qualified teachers of English who can teach in local primary schools with the following skills and qualifications:

1. Qualified Teacher Status in Hong Kong;
2. Very high English language proficiency, with eligibility to apply for exemption from the Language Proficiency Assessment for Teachers – English (LPATE); and
3. Ability to help students learn English as a second language effectively in Hong Kong primary school.