Common Misconceptions about Applying for Master's Programs in Hong Kong
Misconception 1:
It is easy to apply for research-oriented master's programs in Hong Kong.
Fact: Limited spots and high competition make the application process challenging, comparable to prestigious universities in Europe and the United States.
Compared to Western countries, many people believe that research-oriented master's programs in Hong Kong are easy to apply for and be admitted to, leading to a relaxed attitude in preparation. However, the reality is quite different.
In fact, the application process for research-oriented master's programs in Hong Kong is highly competitive and rigorous, on par with renowned institutions in Europe and the United States.
Master's degrees in Hong Kong are generally divided into two categories:
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Taught master's programs
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Research-oriented master's programs
As the names suggest, taught master's programs focus on completing specified coursework, and as long as the credits and requirements for each subject are met, graduation can be achieved. On the other hand, research-oriented master's programs emphasize research, and in addition to completing the coursework, students are required to submit a research paper to graduate.
It is worth mentioning that if students intend to pursue a doctoral degree and further their studies, a research-oriented master's program is the best pathway to enhance their professional and research capabilities, as well as increase their competitiveness in the application process.
A notable characteristic of research-oriented master's admissions in Hong Kong universities is that they offer good funding and benefits, but the number of spots is limited.
Admitted research-oriented master's students receive a monthly stipend of around HKD 14,000 (approximately USD 11,000), which is comparable to the monthly salary of a full-time job in Hong Kong. Due to the significant advantages in terms of degree and income, there is a high demand for research-oriented master's programs, but most institutions only have single-digit spots available each year, indicating fierce competition.
Misconception 2:
It is easy for undergraduate graduates to pursue a master's degree in business in Hong Kong.
Fact: The chance of admission is extremely low for applicants without work experience.
Research-oriented master's programs emphasize independent research and require a high level of work competence. Additionally, the research direction of applicants must be closely related to that of their supervisors. Therefore, recent undergraduate graduates without work experience or research proposals have a very low success rate of admission.
Most business programs in Hong Kong universities, such as The Chinese University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Baptist University, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, and The University of Hong Kong, are primarily open to candidates with work experience. Although the success rate is not high, if recent graduates want to pursue a master's program related to business, they can choose fields such as accounting, business information, or e-commerce.
Misconception 3:
Taught master's programs have a duration of one year.
Fact: The duration ranges from 1 to 3 years, and graduating in one year is highly challenging.
Many people dream of obtaining a one-year taught master's degree in Hong Kong, but the reality is that taught master's programs typically have a duration of 1 to 3 years. It is extremely difficult to absorb all the professional knowledge, complete all the required coursework, and graduate within one year. It requires a lot of effort and hard work to graduate ahead of schedule.
With the proliferation of advertisements promoting "one-year programs" on the internet to attract students, many people mistakenly believe that they can easily "upgrade" to a master's degree within a year. However, this is a misleading claim.
The student visa issued for taught master's programs in Hong Kong is valid for two years, and the program duration does not exceed three years. Students must complete the required credits and graduate within three years. However, many students aim to graduate within two years to save time.
Misconception 4:
The teaching style is free and independent.
Fact: Self-motivated learning is necessary for successful graduation.
Many students believe that research-oriented master's programs in Hong Kong adopt a "free and independent" teaching style without the need for supervision from advisors or the requirement to earn credits, making it more flexible compared to taught master's programs.
While it is true that the teaching style may appear more relaxed, advisors still supervise students' research work and progress. Students do not become lax but are actually encouraged to be more proactive in their studies.
Under the guidance and suggestions of advisors, students engage in innovative research and ultimately submit a 30,000 to 50,000-word thesis, followed by a thesis defense, to successfully graduate.
As the name suggests, research-oriented master's programs focus on conducting research. Without a strong theoretical foundation and knowledge, how can research work proceed smoothly? In addition, master's programs are taught entirely in English, and students need to read a large amount of English textbooks and reference materials to conduct research based on theory. Moreover, if students do not prepare before class, they may struggle to understand what the professors are teaching after class
Misconception 5:
English proficiency is not important for master's programs in Hong Kong.
Fact: Strong English language skills are essential for success.
Hong Kong is an international city where English is widely used in academic and professional settings. Therefore, a high level of English proficiency is crucial for success in master's programs.
The application process often requires the submission of English language test scores, such as IELTS or TOEFL. Additionally, during the program, students are expected to read and comprehend complex academic texts, participate in class discussions, write research papers, and deliver presentations in English.
In research-oriented master's programs, students are required to conduct independent research and write a thesis in English. Without strong English language skills, it would be challenging to excel in these areas and meet the program requirements.