UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
MPhil and PhD in Linguistics
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 2 years (MPhil) / 3-4 years (PhD)Program Duration
- SeptemberTypical Start Date
- Multiple LabsResearch Facilities
- USD 3,200/month (HK PhD Fellowship)Potential Funding
- USD 2,200/month (HKU PG Fellowship)Potential Funding
The Department of Linguistics at the University of Hong Kong (HKU) offers research-focused Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees. The MPhil program typically takes two years, while the PhD can be completed in three years (if entering with prior postgraduate research experience) or four years (standard entry). The program provides an integrated approach to the study of linguistics, covering theoretical linguistics, language documentation, computational linguistics, psycholinguistics, and neurolinguistics. The department emphasizes an innovative research environment with excellent working conditions and intensive supervision, supported by specialized labs and equipment.
Curriculum
Both MPhil and PhD students are required to complete coursework. The specific requirements vary based on the program length and entry qualifications. Students will select courses in consultation with their supervisors. Beyond coursework, students must present departmental seminars and participate in additional oral presentations.
- MPhil / 4-Year PhD
- Research Seminars in Linguistics ILING7501
- Research Seminars in Linguistics IILING7502
- Research methods in LinguisticsLING6001
- Readings in LinguisticsLING6010
- Special Topics in LinguisticsLING6012
- Introductory statistics for the humanitiesLING2071
- Advanced statistics for the humanitiesLING2072
- Introduction to thesis writingGRSC6001 or HUMA7001
- Research ethicsGRSC6030
- Transferable skillsGRSC6008 or GRSC6038 or GRSC6039 or SMLC7005
- 3-Year PhD
- Research methods in LinguisticsLING6001
- Research ethicsGRSC6030
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the MPhil and PhD programs in Linguistics at the University of Hong Kong?
- The MPhil program typically takes two years to complete. The PhD program can be finished in three years if you have prior postgraduate research experience, or four years for standard entry.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- Applicants need a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0 with no subtest lower than 5.5, or a TOEFL score of 80 or above. Other qualifications like GCE or IGCSE Grade C are also accepted.
- What are the academic entry requirements for the Linguistics MPhil/PhD?
- A Master's degree (MA/MPhil) or equivalent in linguistics is required. For direct PhD entry or if you have a strong Bachelor's degree, sufficient background in linguistics is necessary, with familiarity in linguistic data collection and analysis being highly desirable.
- How do I apply for the MPhil or PhD in Linguistics?
- Applications are submitted through the HKU Graduate School's Online Application System. It is strongly recommended to discuss your research interests and prepare a proposal with the Department Chairperson or a potential supervisor before applying during the Main Round (September to December).
- Are there any funding opportunities available for Linguistics MPhil/PhD students?
- Studentships are available on a competitive basis. Strong candidates may be considered for the HK PhD Fellowship, offering USD 3,200 per month, or the HKU Postgraduate Fellowship, offering USD 2,200 per month.
- What is the tuition fee for the MPhil and PhD in Linguistics?
- Tuition fees for the Linguistics MPhil/PhD are not specified. General HKU postgraduate tuition fees may apply, but details are not provided here. Some Master's programs at HKU list fees of HKD 250,000 per year.
Entry requirements
MA/MPhil or equivalent degreeIn the field of linguistics. Familiarity with linguistic data collection, elicitation, and analysis is highly desirable.
Bachelor's degree or equivalentA good first degree and sufficient background in linguistics are required for inquiry.
IELTSMinimum overall band of 6.0 with no subtest lower than 5.5
TOEFLA score of 80 or above
GCEGrade C or above
IGCSEGrade C or above
Cambridge Test of Proficiency in English LanguageGrade C or above
For tests taken from the 2026 intake onwards, IELTS and TOEFL scores must be within two years prior to September 1 of the admissions year.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified for Linguistics MPhil/PhD. General HKU postgraduate tuition fees may apply but are not detailed here. Business School Master's programs listed fees of HKD 250,000 per year. Sustainability Leadership and Governance Master's program lists fees of HKD 250,000 per year.
Tuition (home)Not specified for Linguistics MPhil/PhD. General HKU postgraduate tuition fees may apply but are not detailed here. Business School Master's programs listed fees of HKD 250,000 per year. Sustainability Leadership and Governance Master's program lists fees of HKD 250,000 per year.
LivingNot specified.
Studentships are available on a competitive basis to support research students.
How to apply
1. Establish AccountRegister an account on the HKU Taught Postgraduate Admission online system. You will need to provide your full name and a valid email address. Use a new username if applying for multiple programs.
2. Complete Application FormFill out the online application form carefully. You can save your progress and return later. Preview your information before submission.
3. Pay Application FeeSubmit the non-refundable application fee. Note that application details cannot be changed after payment.
4. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload transcripts, diplomas, certificates, and other required documents via the admissions portal within two weeks of submitting the application form. Documents not in English must be accompanied by a certified English translation.
Scholarships
HK PhD FellowshipUSD 3,200 per month
HKU Postgraduate FellowshipUSD 2,200 per month
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the MPhil and PhD programs in Linguistics at the University of Hong Kong?
+
The MPhil program typically takes two years to complete. The PhD program can be finished in three years if you have prior postgraduate research experience, or four years for standard entry.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
Applicants need a minimum overall IELTS score of 6.0 with no subtest lower than 5.5, or a TOEFL score of 80 or above. Other qualifications like GCE or IGCSE Grade C are also accepted.
What are the academic entry requirements for the Linguistics MPhil/PhD?
+
A Master's degree (MA/MPhil) or equivalent in linguistics is required. For direct PhD entry or if you have a strong Bachelor's degree, sufficient background in linguistics is necessary, with familiarity in linguistic data collection and analysis being highly desirable.
How do I apply for the MPhil or PhD in Linguistics?
+
Applications are submitted through the HKU Graduate School's Online Application System. It is strongly recommended to discuss your research interests and prepare a proposal with the Department Chairperson or a potential supervisor before applying during the Main Round (September to December).
Are there any funding opportunities available for Linguistics MPhil/PhD students?
+
Studentships are available on a competitive basis. Strong candidates may be considered for the HK PhD Fellowship, offering USD 3,200 per month, or the HKU Postgraduate Fellowship, offering USD 2,200 per month.
What is the tuition fee for the MPhil and PhD in Linguistics?
+
Tuition fees for the Linguistics MPhil/PhD are not specified. General HKU postgraduate tuition fees may apply, but details are not provided here. Some Master's programs at HKU list fees of HKD 250,000 per year.