Linguistics is the science-based study of human language. Its students seek to understand the context, structure, and meaning of languages by comparing existing human languages and studying their similarities and differences. Areas of study include phonology, semantics, and syntax.

Hong Kong, found on the south coast of China, the country is one of the two Special Administrative Regions in the Republic of China. Hong Kong's higher education is placed in the England’s structure as well as international systems. It is managed by the country's Education Bureau.

Requirements for the PhD program often involve the student having already obtained a Master’s degree. Additionally, a thesis or dissertation primarily consisting of original academic research must be submitted. In some countries, this work may even need to be defended in front of a panel.