项目介绍

2021年3月8日

The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Programs provide rigorous training in public policy research to academically outstanding students aspiring to pursue a career in policy research and teaching. Given the breadth and depth of research faculty expertise across departments and schools in HKUST, students in the Public Policy Programs will have the opportunity to specialize in one of the following key policy area: Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, Environmental Policy and Sustainability, Social Changes and Public Policy, and China’s Development Policy.

The PhD Program seeks to train students in original research in public policy and to cultivate the independent, interdisciplinary and innovative thinking that is essential for a successful career in public policy research and formulation. A candidate for a PhD degree is expected to demonstrate mastery of knowledge in the chosen discipline and to synthesize and create new knowledge, making an original and substantial contribution to the discipline.

On successful completion of the PhD program, graduates will be able to:

1. Using analytical tools and substantive knowledge gained on different policy domains to conduct rigorous policy research;
2. Acquire the critical thinking and advanced research skills that are essential for policy research;
3. Apply a range of qualitative and quantitative research methods for policy research;
4. Develop and master field of specialty in public policy; and
5. Exercise independent and critical judgements in the debates about public policy. 

Students in MPhil/PhD in Public Policy programs will have the opportunity to specialize in one of the following four policy areas.

Research Foci

The following areas are the Division’s main foci:
 

• Science, Technology and Innovation Policy

• Environmental Policy and Sustainability

• Social Changes and Public Policy

• China’s Development Policies

To qualify for admission, applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Admission is selective and meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
 1. General Admission Requirements of the University

• Applicants seeking admission to a master’s degree program should have obtained a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution, or an approved equivalent qualification;
• Applicants seeking admission to a doctoral degree program should have obtained a bachelor’s degree with a proven record of outstanding performance from a recognized institution; or presented evidence of satisfactory work at the postgraduate level on a full-time basis for at least one year, or on a part-time basis for at least two years.

2. English Language Admission Requirements

Applicants have to fulfill English Language requirements with one of the following proficiency attainments:

• TOEFL-iBT: 80*
• TOEFL-pBT: 550
• TOEFL-Revised paper-delivered test: 60 (total scores for Reading, Listening and Writing sections)
• IELTS (Academic Module): Overall score: 6.5 and All sub-score: 5.5

* refers to the total score in one single attempt

Applicants are not required to present TOEFL or IELTS score if

• their first language is English, or
• they obtained the bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an institution where the medium of instruction was English.

3. Additional Information

• Applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree in any field with strong academic performance, especially in analytical courses. 
• Applicants are highly recommended to have a satisfactory GMAT or GRE score.