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During each application season, many students choose “one-year master’s programs”; on one hand, the one-year duration is short, allowing for a quick degree; on the other hand, a one-year program is also more economical, making it a high cost-performance option.
When it comes to one-year master’s programs, many students’ first reaction is the UK. However, besides UK institutions, Hong Kong is also a popular study abroad destination.
Next, YES will share several one-year master’s programs related to interaction design at Hong Kong universities. Students who want to apply to Hong Kong can take note!
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The University of Hong Kong
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is a comprehensive, international public research university in Hong Kong, known as the “Ivy League of Asia”. Its motto is “明德格物”, corresponding to the Latin phrase Sapientia Et Virtus. It is a member of the Pacific Rim University Alliance, the U21, the Chinese University Presidents’ Association, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Alliance, the Beijing-Hong Kong University Alliance, and the Shanghai-Hong Kong University Alliance, and is a dual-accredited member of AACSB and EQUIS. It was the first research unit in the world to identify the pathogen of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS).
⚫️ HKU Program 1
Master of Science in Engineering (Innovative Design and Technology)
Master of Science in Engineering (IDT)
The MSc (Eng) (IDT) program aims to prepare students for a rapidly changing world where innovative design and technology are the driving forces of the future. Through this program, students will acquire the necessary knowledge and practical skills to develop novel solutions, services, or products to further promote innovation and technology development in Hong Kong.
MSc (Eng) (IDT) adopts an interdisciplinary curriculum that draws on expertise from various technology-focused engineering fields. In addition to general knowledge of innovative design and manufacturing, students can customize their personal portfolio to meet their specific needs for in-depth knowledge, interests, and career goals in different areas. Furthermore, students will be required to complete an interdisciplinary capstone project to explore how technology can be applied to solve real-world problems. The program is designed to respond to the emerging demand for talents capable of creating and applying technology to solve various problems and realize inventions for the benefit of humanity.
Graduates will take on leadership roles, bringing change to the world and making an impact in Hong Kong and beyond.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.0, no sub-score less than 5.5; TOEFL not less than 80
⚫️ HKU Program 2
Master of Science in Engineering (Robotics and Intelligent Systems)
Master of Science in Engineering (Robotics and Intelligent Systems)
The MSc in Robotics and Intelligent Systems is designed to prepare students for careers in the field of robotics engineering. The curriculum includes mechanical design, programming, and integration skills for building, operating, and applying robotic systems. The program also emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, preparing students for the many tasks required to achieve these goals. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to become independent researchers and engineers, with many going on to become leaders in robotics research in academia and industry.
– Duration: 1 year
– Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field, with a strong interest in robotics.
– English language requirement: TOEFL above 80, IELTS above 6.0, no sub-score less than 5.5
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Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is a public comprehensive research university located in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China.
⚫️ PolyU Program 1
Master of Design (Innovative Business Design) (IBD)
Master of Design (Innovative Business Design) (IBD)
This master’s program is an interdisciplinary professional course aimed at equipping students with the necessary skills and capabilities to become leaders in organizational and societal transformation. Through the interdisciplinary design and business approaches of this program, students gain a comprehensive understanding of the complexities of today’s global market. The program emphasizes the importance of creativity, innovation, and responsible business practices in driving sustainable growth for organizations. Students are encouraged to think critically, challenge traditional business models, and develop innovative solutions to complex problems.
The goals of this program are:
– To promote interdisciplinary knowledge through systematic integration;
– To impart an understanding of the fundamental elements of design, business, and technology;
– To provide practical research opportunities and training in integrated business design thinking;
– To cultivate talent that drives the transformation of Hong Kong’s industry;
– To seek opportunities and resources to improve social and economic conditions at local, regional, and global levels.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.0; TOEFL not less than 80
⚫️ PolyU Program 2
Master of Design (Intelligent Systems Design) (ISD)
Master of Design (Intelligent Systems Design) (ISD)
This program is an emerging interdisciplinary program focused on the integration of intelligent technology, systems theory, and innovative design methods, bringing together expertise from the STEAM fields (STEM + Arts and Design). To achieve transformative industrial innovation, ISD aims to support cutting-edge and competitive industries through systematic design innovation, leveraging advanced technologies and processes such as artificial intelligence, Industry 4.0, robotics, and AIoT (Artificial Intelligence + Internet of Things).
The goals of this program are:
– To cultivate students’ creativity and design capabilities, enabling them to adopt intelligent (especially AI) and systematic approaches;
– To develop students’ awareness of current and emerging technologies in innovative industries and advanced manufacturing (e.g., Industry 4.0);
– To promote an understanding of marketing and business practices;
– To enhance awareness of the impact of design systems and solutions on humanity, society, the environment, and global domains by developing responsible, transparent, and ethical design processes.
The combination of theory, planning strategies, research, and technical skills lays the foundation for studio themes that explore emerging aspects of user experience (UX) and interaction design (IxD) based on human needs and desires, as well as technological development.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.0; TOEFL not less than 80
* Add Xiaoyea (Angela988L) to assist with applications~
⚫️ PolyU Program 3
Master of Science in Innovative Multimedia Entertainment
Master of Science in Innovative Multimedia Entertainment
This program aims to attract top creative talents to shape the future of interactive digital media and entertainment experiences. Students will master the AI and data science technologies driving industry change, as well as the future interfaces for media delivery formats, enabling them to possess employment skills and expertise upon graduation. They will be able to focus on areas such as gaming, media arts technology, interactive robotics, and virtual interaction design. Our curriculum pathways will also allow students to choose their core areas of interest—technical expertise in arts, digital, and entertainment media or applied research directions—to explore fields that match their backgrounds and passions.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.0; TOEFL not less than 80
⚫️ PolyU Program 4
Master of Design (Smart Service Design) (SSD)
Master of Design (Smart Service Design) (SSD)
This program is an interdisciplinary program focused on design at the intersection of business, technology, and human intelligence, creating meaningful service interventions for broader social and business challenges. This program extends the scope of design beyond current commercialized and segmented professional practices, positioning it within the socio-technical dimensions of design, adopting a critical, systematic, and human-centered perspective in the context of service design.
The program aims to cultivate students’ theoretical and practical knowledge of service design. “Service design” allows students to gain insights into the technical, business, social, and organizational contexts of service design, thereby expanding their capabilities and demonstrating how to translate design opportunities into new and sustainable service experiences.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.0; TOEFL not less than 80
⚫️ PolyU Program 5
Master of Science in Generative AI and the Humanities
Master of Science in Generative AI and the Humanities
This program is hosted by the Department of Chinese and Bilingual Studies, supported by the Department of Chinese History and Culture, the Department of English and Communication, and the Department of Electronics. The program includes two specializations: MSc in Generative AI and the Humanities (Language and Communication) and MSc in Generative AI and the Humanities (Arts and Culture).
The program aims to meet the growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between artificial intelligence (AI) and the humanities. Thus, it aims to promote interdisciplinary excellence by combining AI knowledge with humanities knowledge. In particular, by providing students with a comprehensive education that combines AI technical skills with humanistic insights, the program aims to equip graduates with a thorough understanding of the impact of AI on language, communication, arts, and culture.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.0; TOEFL not less than 80
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Baptist University of Hong Kong
Baptist University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong Baptist University), abbreviated as “Baptist University”, is an international research university and one of the eight key public universities in Hong Kong. The university originated in 1956 as Hong Kong Baptist College and is renowned for its liberal arts, business management, and modern Chinese medicine research. Baptist University and the University of Hong Kong are the two oldest institutions of higher education in Hong Kong.
⚫️ Baptist University Program
Master of Science (MSc) in AI and Digital Media
Master of Science (MSc) in AI and Digital Media
This master’s program in AI and Digital Media is Hong Kong’s first mature interdisciplinary taught postgraduate program, designed to provide students with cutting-edge interdisciplinary knowledge and skills in AI and media communication required in the computing and digital age. Students are expected to become proficient in data-driven research, storytelling, branding and promotion, audience engagement, and editorial decision-making.
Students are also expected to apply these data media and communication skills to provide analysis, solutions, and insights for media organizations and others in the industry or related to the industry.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS at least 6.0; TOEFL (iBT) minimum 74; CET-6 minimum score of 450
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The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), abbreviated as HKUST, is a member of the Pacific Rim University Alliance, the Global University Presidents Forum, the East Asia Research University Association, the Asian University Alliance, and the Chinese University Presidents’ Association. It is a well-known research university in the world and the first research university in Hong Kong.
⚫️ HKUST Program
MSc in Artificial Intelligence
Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence
The MSc in Artificial Intelligence focuses on the latest trends in AI development, meeting the market demand for AI professionals, equipping students with advanced skills and knowledge in AI across various application domains. Through coursework and internship training, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the basic principles and concepts of AI, designing, deploying, evaluating, and managing AI systems while adhering to ethical and legal standards.
– Duration: 1 year
– Admission requirements: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or related disciplines from a Chinese university with a certain score; or equivalent; applicants with bachelor’s degrees in other disciplines must have at least two years of work experience related to this master’s program.
– English language requirement: IELTS 6.5 (no sub-score less than 5.5); TOEFL 80
* Add Xiaoyea (Angela988L) to assist with applications~
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City University of Hong Kong
City University of Hong Kong (CityU) is a public research university and one of the nine universities in Hong Kong with full self-assessment qualifications. It is a member of the Hong Kong Scholars Program, the Silk Road University Alliance, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Alliance, the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao University Smart Campus Alliance, the Beijing-Hong Kong University Alliance, and the Shanghai-Hong Kong University Alliance.
⚫️ CityU Program
Master of Arts in Creative Media (MACM)
Master of Arts in Creative Media (MACM)
This master’s program aims to cultivate the next generation of cultural innovators. It is based on the humanities, combining aesthetic, theoretical, and technical expertise, enabling students to take on leadership roles in the vibrant new media and creative industries. The program advocates that a solid foundation in media theory and aesthetics, philosophy, and cultural studies is essential for developing the critical thinking necessary for success in the field of creative media.
This program is based on various theoretical approaches:
– Fundamental and theoretical frameworks (philosophy of technology, media ecology, media archaeology, cultural studies)
– Media theory and aesthetics (critical new media studies, digital aesthetics, new media art theory, sound art)
– Contemporary media and culture (influencer studies, curatorial practices, queer technology theory)
– Specific media forms and industries (film studies, new cinema, video game studies, media economics)
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.5; TOEFL not less than 79
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Lingnan University
Lingnan University is located in Hong Kong, abbreviated as “Lingnan University”. It originated in Guangzhou in 1888 and is a founding member of the Asian Liberal Arts University Alliance and a member of the World Liberal Arts Colleges Alliance.
Lingnan University adheres to the liberal arts education philosophy, focusing on developing high-quality undergraduate education. In 2015, it was ranked as one of the top ten liberal arts colleges in Asia by Forbes magazine and ranked second in the world in the “Quality Education” category in the 2023 Times Higher Education University Impact Rankings.
⚫️ Lingnan Program 1
MA in Artificial Intelligence and the Future
Master of Arts in Artificial Intelligence and the Future
Unlike traditional courses centered on information technology and engineering, the MA in Artificial Intelligence and the Future provides a unique and comprehensive model for this emerging field. The program offers a broad interdisciplinary foundation, ensuring that both newly graduated students and accomplished professionals are suitable for enrollment. Students do not need prior knowledge of AI, nor do they require a technical background or advanced mathematical skills; they will learn to apply analytical tools for clear and critical thinking about AI systems.
The MA in Artificial Intelligence and the Future covers a wide range of content, allowing students to explore the impact of AI across multiple fields, including science, law, economics, public policy, healthcare, and business and finance.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.5; TOEFL not less than 79
⚫️ Lingnan Program 2
Master of Arts in Creative and Media Industries
Master of Arts in Creative and Media Industries
Supported by the Department of Digital Arts and Creative Industries (DACI) and the Center for Film and Creative Industries (CFCI), the Master of Arts in Creative and Media Industries (MACMI) provides foundational and advanced courses in the creative and media industries, including film, television, music, performing arts, architecture, visual arts, and interactive media, as well as archives, museums, and entertainment services—constituting the most vibrant sectors of Hong Kong’s cultural economy. The program is based on three foundations:
– The concept of creativity and the evolution of the creative and media industries;
– The latest developments driven by globalization and digital technology;
– Hong Kong as a center for creative and media industries in the region.
– Duration: 1 year
– English language requirement: IELTS not less than 6.5; TOEFL not less than 79
* Add Xiaoyea (Angela988L) to assist with applications~
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Why Choose Hong Kong?
Hong Kong, as a gathering place for creative culture, is a paradise for art students due to its interesting and artistic atmosphere. All universities in Hong Kong are comprehensive universities, close to home, with similar cultural backgrounds, short study durations, lower costs, and many employment opportunities… As a representative of “high cost-performance”, Hong Kong, influenced by British culture, particularly emphasizes educational quality, and in recent years has become an increasingly popular choice for art students!
Cultural Environment
Hong Kong is the world’s third-largest financial center after New York and London, where international trade takes place, and Eastern and Western cultures collide, making it a truly international metropolis. Influenced by British culture, Hong Kong adopts a Commonwealth education system, preserving traditional Chinese culture while maintaining a strong international atmosphere.
Moreover, the quality of university education in Hong Kong is very high. Currently, there are 20 higher education institutions in Hong Kong that can confer degrees, of which 15 are recognized by the Ministry of Education. English and Cantonese are the main communication languages, making it relatively easy for mainland students to adapt.
Image source: internet
From the perspective of studying abroad in Hong Kong, the eight major universities in Hong Kong—The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Polytechnic University, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Baptist University, Lingnan University, and The Education University of Hong Kong—will increase the government-funded limit for non-local students to 40% starting from the 2024/25 academic year.
Image source: The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s 2023 Policy Address
Employment Resources
Graduates from Hong Kong generally have three choices after graduation: one is to continue studying at a university in Hong Kong, the second is to return to mainland China for employment, and the third is to work in Hong Kong.
Image source: internet
It is worth mentioning that universities in Hong Kong are very supportive of students’ social practice. Many students only need to obtain the consent of their tutors or colleges to have the opportunity to intern locally. Some tutors even proactively recommend students to relevant companies. This means that students studying abroad in Hong Kong have more opportunities to accumulate practical work experience, laying a solid foundation for future employment.
Furthermore, starting from November 2023, the Hong Kong government will temporarily lift restrictions on full-time non-local postgraduate students studying in Hong Kong participating in part-time work. This also means that master’s students in Hong Kong can refresh their resumes through internships/part-time jobs to prepare for future employment! The arrangement will be trialed for two years, benefiting over 35,000 students.
Image source: The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region’s 2023 Policy Address
On October 16, Chief Executive John Lee of Hong Kong announced in the latest policy address that he would establish a quality talent pool to support Hong Kong’s development, and next month, he will expand the list of universities under the High Talent Pass Scheme, adding 13 world-class universities, including four institutions that have ranked at the top of the QS World University Rankings in Arts and Design over the past five years. In simple terms, it is a plan to attract high-end talent to develop in Hong Kong, allowing applicants to obtain a stay permit for up to two years without needing to have found a job.
Newly added list of 13 mainland universities:
– Renmin University of China
– Beihang University
– Beijing Institute of Technology
– Beijing Normal University
– Southeast University
– Nankai University
– Tianjin University
– Tongji University
– Sichuan University
In addition, graduates from the following four top design colleges abroad can also apply for Hong Kong’s High Talent Pass Scheme:
– Royal College of Art
– University of the Arts London
– Parsons School of Design
– Rhode Island School of Design
In terms of employment, statistics show that graduates from the School of Design at Hong Kong Polytechnic University have collaborated with top global companies such as Meta, Google, Microsoft, The Walt Disney Company (China), IBM, HSBC, and more.
Mainland students who study and work in Hong Kong for seven years can apply to become permanent residents of Hong Kong. If they choose to return to mainland China, they can also enjoy preferential policies for talent settlement in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou. In simple terms, this is also one of the more convenient and efficient ways to settle in Hong Kong.
Want to know more about universities and programs?
Feel free to add Xiaoyea for consultation~
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