Different ways to your degree

IT IS NOT the end of the world if your A-level grades do not win you a place at university. There are other ways to get a degree, but the process may take longer.

A popular option is to study at a community college. These are subsidiaries of universities and offer sub-degree programmes, including higher diplomas and associate degree programmes. The School of Professional and Continuing Education at University of Hong Kong (HKU Space) is one example.

The school's principal, Cheng Kin-fai, said the wide-ranging programmes on offer were aimed at preparing students for university education.

'Teaching methods in our college resemble the ones found in university. We don't grade students solely by a one-off exam. We also look at their class participation, homework and projects, to make learning less stressful,' Professor Cheng said.

Last year about 320 associate degree students at the Community College, which comes under the wing of HKU Space, were admitted to local or overseas universities.

Victor Lee, director of the School of Continuing Studies at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, said the school's higher diplomas were all career-oriented. One example is the popular Higher Diploma of Commercial Design.

'Students finishing Form Five or Seven may not have much knowledge in the field of design but the course gives a comprehensive introduction on the topic, which enables them to build a solid foundation before they choose what speciality they will focus on,' Dr Lee said.