Master’s education in Hong Kong: Access and programme diversity

Abstract

This study aims to examine how master’s students’ profiles have changed over the past two decades in Hong Kong and how master’s programmes have diversified in terms of degree types and learning aims, and programme focuses used to achieve these aims. Using a case study approach, this study performed a document analysis of institutional statistics and university-published materials. In addition, a keyword analysis of the learning aims of 102 programmes was conducted. The results showed that the profiles of master’s students’ have changed, with an increasing number of female students, non-local students and full-time students, and in shorter work experience. Master’s programmes within the case institution were diversified based on a market-oriented approach; for instance, many spinoff programmes targeting students with different backgrounds were opened. On the other hand, the learning aims, and the programmes focuses employed to achieve these aims, were found to be rather standardised across degree types, with emphasis placed on the integration between theory and practice and on professional development. The research findings have implications for understanding the changing nature of master’s education in terms of student backgrounds and the focal points of teaching and learning.