Ma Dengge was born in Shandong province. He studied at the English Department of Beijing International Studies University from 1965 to 1972, and taught there after he graduated. He completed further study at Coventry Education Institute of England 1973 to 1975. He was an exchange professor at Northern Arizona University of USA from 1988 to 1989. He has acted as deputy dean and dean of the English Department of Beijing International Studies University, and now serves as a member of English-language group of the Professional Titles Appraisal Committee for Beijing University Teachers and a consultant for the Beijing “Speak a Foreign Language” Organizing Committee.

His translations include I’m in the Field, Jackie Oh!: Life of Jacqueline Onassis, and his compilations include English Questions Answered.