• Asian Studies

    • Asian Studies

    Programme Information

    Why is Asian Studies important?

    The 21st century is an Asian century. The economic miracles of Asia in recent years have brought about significant changes that have attained world recognition. The influence of this region is not only the result of its boosting economic status and close international ties, but also its diverse cultural traditions and history.

    What is Social Science?

    Social science involves the study of people – their beliefs, behaviours, interactions, and so forth, while social scientists gather data using specialised techniques and use the data to support or reject theories. Different disciplines of social sciences include anthropology, psychology, political science, sociology, etc.

    Programme Objectives

    The Bachelor of Social Sciences (Honours) in Asian Studies programme aims to give students a solid understanding of Asia’s transformation and its associated complexities by adopting a multidisciplinary approach. Students will have the opportunity to examine Asia’s metamorphosis from social, political, economic, cultural and historical perspectives. This approach will help cultivate students’ critical thinking and communication skills. Besides enabling students to comprehend the miracles of Asia, the programme also fosters students’ appreciation and respect of cultural diversity.

    Programme Overview

    The Programme is designed as a four-year programme of study. Students are required to study at least 120 credits (39/40 modules) over four years.

    Study area

    Core
    (Credits)

    Elective
    (Credits)

    Total
    (Credits)

    Percentage
    (%)

    1. Asian Studies

    8(24)

    11/12(36)*

    19/20(60)*

    50

    2. Common Core Curriculum

     

    (i) General Education

    1(3)

    6(18)

    7(21)

    17.5

    (ii) Languages

     

          Chinese

    3(9)

    –

    3(9)

    7.5

          English

    3(9)

    –

    3(9)

    7.5

    (iii) Quantitative Methods & IT Skills

    2(6)

    –

    2(6)

    5

    3. Business Education

    2(6)

    –

    2(6)

    5

    4. Free Electives

    –

    3(9)

    3(9)

    7.5

    Total

    19(57)

    20/21(63)

    39/40(120)*

    100

    * ASI4900 Senior Thesis carries 6 credits and is equivalent to two Major elective modules

    Programme Features
    1. Holistic Structure
       The programme provides students with fundamental knowledge of social sciences and humanities with respect to issues in the Asian context. Specific modules are offered by the Department of Social Science. This ensures the linkage and coherence of the modules offered.
    2. Multidisciplinary Approach
      The programme provides multidisciplinary knowledge and training in social sciences and humanities. Students will be trained to evaluate situations and problems by adopting multidisciplinary perspectives in the Asian context.
    3. Overseas Experience
      The programme will equip students with abilities to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment. Cross-cultural experience cultivates students’critical thinking, communication skills and respect for cultural diversity. Through academic exchange, study tour, summer course, voluntary work or placement, students can gain overseas experience in Asia.
    4. Asian Language Training
      The programme requires students to attain at least 6 credits in Japanese, Korean or other Asian language modules. Students may also take advanced level language modules as electives to enhance their competitiveness in the job market or further study.

    Programme Intended Learning Outcomes (PILOs)

    On completion of the Prorgamme, students should be able to :

    • critically analyse and explore complex information, ideas and concepts and take different perspectives to solve problems independently;
    • possess effective social and interpersonal skills to work with others, and establish and manage good relationships to enhance individual and team collaborations;
    • evaluate own contributions and responsibilities in becoming responsible employees in a multi-cultural environment;
    • analyse the social, political, cultural, historical and economic transformations in Asian societies;
    • evaluate transformation patterns of Asian regions and beyond;
    • apply theories, concepts and research methodologies in social sciences to examine issues, situations and problems in Asian contexts; and
    • conduct research on issues and problems of Asian societies from multidisciplinary perspectives.

    Minimum Entry requirements

    In 2016-17, the minimum entry requirements for Year 1 entry are as follows:

    • Form 6 graduates with Level 3 or above in Chinese Language and English Language, Level 2 or above in Mathematics, Liberal Studies and one other subject in HKDSE; OR
    • Applicants with equivalent qualifications; OR
    • Mature students (aged 23 or above by September of the year of admission) with a minimum of 2 years’ working experience in their chosen field of study, or the ability to pursue their chosen field of study.

    For students who possess qualifications other than the above, their applications will be considered on a case-by-case basis.

    BSS-AS pamphlet - Cover
    Programme Pamphlet (Text Version)

    Enquiry

    Email:
    ssc@hsmc.edu.hk