AFTER RECENTLY completing a comprehensive review of the CFPCM programme, the IFPHK has accredited two more education providers - the School of Continuing and Professional Education at the City University of Hong Kong and the Lingnan Institute of Further Education at Lingnan University. These schools will accept applications this month for courses beginning in May or June. This brings to six the number of local universities offering CFP courses, providing wider choice and ensuring the availability of sufficient places. Accredited education providers may teach all six course modules. While the material covered is basically in line with the IFPHK syllabus, the universities have different styles, faculty strengths and class timetables. Some encourage students to take an introductory pre-programme while some make it possible to switch to a full degree programme. To ensure maximum flexibility, individual modules can be taken at different institutions. Applicants deciding which university to attend should consider location, likely class sizes and the academic diplomas on offer. IFPHK executive committee member Henry Lam said no dramatic changes were planned in the next two years. 'However, we see improvement as a continuous process and will therefore maintain close contact with the providers' programme managers and tutors on matters of quality control.' The standard teaching format is classroom lectures, but online options are under consideration. 'Looking ahead, we hope to create an effective combination of the two modes of education,' Mr Lam said. Previously approved education providers are the: School of Professional and Continuing Education (University of Hong Kong); Li Ka Shing Institute of Professional and Continuing Education (Open University of Hong Kong); Management and Executive Development Centre (Hong Kong Polytechnic University); and Asia-Pacific Institute of Business (Chinese University of Hong Kong).