A matter of three degrees

Bachelor of science programmes The Chinese University of Hong Kong

With more associate degree and higher diploma holders demanding a full degree, the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is launching three two-year full-time UGC-funded undergraduate programmes designed for associate degree or higher diploma holders in the 2012-2013 academic year.

The two new bachelor of science programmes are in gerontology, and in exercise science and health education, while the third one is bachelor of social science in global studies.

The CUHK programme in gerontology is the first of its kind in Hong Kong. 'The programme will equip students with professional knowledge in programme planning, project co-ordination and implementation, as well as elderly service re-engineering, administration and evaluation to prepare them to work across different health and social care service providers,' says Professor Diana Lee, director of The Nethersole School of Nursing, under the faculty of medicine.

'There will be a practicum to enable students to transfer theoretical knowledge of gerontology into practice,' she adds.

Professor Amy Ha, chairperson of the department of sports science and physical education under the faculty of education, says the programme in exercise science and health education is designed for students who aspire to a career in exercise, sport and allied health sciences.

'Professional training in exercise science and health education to assist individuals and communities to have a better understanding of health issues will be the focus,' says Ha, adding that the programme is characterised by two closely linked areas: exercise science and health education.

The exercise science component explores the complex nature of human movement, and examines the manner by which the body reacts to acute and chronic physical activity, such as general fitness regimes, lifestyle physical activities and elite sport.

The health education component examines the efficacy of a variety of prescribed physical activities, as well as theories and strategies for health promotion, adds Ha.

Professor Sunny Kwong, associate dean of education at the faculty of social science, says contents of the global studies course will be relevant to the world trends of the 21st century.

For the gerontology and global studies programmes, applicants from all disciplines are welcome. Applicants to the exercise science and health education programme should hold an associate degree or higher diploma in a sports-related discipline.

The deadline for application is February 9, 2012.