Enrolling in the MASPSD programme was one of the best decisions I have ever made. During my studies, I had many opportunities to acquire professional knowledge in analysing social policy and social development and eventually applying that knowledge in practice.

Throughout the programme, the lecturers were eager to provide guidance on various problems and issues related to social policy and social development, not only in Hong Kong but also worldwide. In lectures, we students benefitted from experienced professors specialising in various topics, and from community leaders and social services professionals sharing their expertise and practical insights. Outside the classroom, we were able to engage with consultancy firms, research centres, major NGOs and think tanks for policy research. Students had many opportunities to dissect the sources of various social issues and then construct policy proposals to address the core problems.

Beyond studies in Hong Kong, many exchange programmes were on offer, such as visiting Singapore’s public housing or a Summer Institute in collaboration with the University of Chicago, which allowed us to substantially broaden our horizons. As a graduate of the MASPSD programme, I urge you to join it: you will enjoy your studies as much as I did mine.

Sophia Tong

During my year as a postgraduate student in the MASPSD, I not only acquired knowledge and friendships, but also experienced personal growth.

I learned about the theories of social development and policy making, and also had opportunities to apply them. For example, the MASPSD offered us many venues through which we could examine the social world outside the classroom. We visited local communities in Hong Kong as well as taking study tours in Taiwan and Thailand to compare policy making in different places. In 2013, the department also organized the Summer Institute Programme in collaboration with the University of Chicago, to study the effects of globalisation on Hong Kong, Yunnan and America.

The professors in the department are highly dedicated teachers. We read extensively, and also learned research methods that helped us to analyse social issues. I have become close friends with some of my classmates, and have also come to know some of my professors better. I truly cherish these friendships. Furthermore, the MASPSD is a challenging programme that promotes personal growth. I was constantly pushed to transcend my limits and to realise my potential. My year in the MASPSD gave me an intellectual foundation that will help me succeed in my future postgraduate studies and my career. I am really glad that I made the decision to enrol in the MASPSD.

Lizzie Bi

Joining the MASPSD programme at PolyU is one of the best decisions I have ever made. After entering the programme, I was given opportunities to acquire professional knowledge in analysing social policy and social development, and eventually gained practical experience that broadened my horizons.

Throughout the programme we were given guidance on examining and discussing problems and issues in social policy and social development, not only in Hong Kong, but the world over. In lectures, we benefited from professors specialising in social policy and social development, and from community leaders and social services professionals sharing their expertise and practical insights. Outside the classroom, we were given opportunities to engage with research centres, major NGOs and think tanks involved in policy research so that we could further hone our skills in the formulation of social policy and in finding new possibilities and alternatives for social development. Moreover, the presence of international students fostered intercultural exchange and the development of a cross-cultural sensitivity and appreciation.

As a graduate of this programme, I can say that I truly enjoyed my studies and have no regrets about my decision to complete this course.

Caesar Lam