Hong Kong CyberU (HKCyberU) became the territory's first virtual university when it was set up in 2000 by the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).
'We offer programmes in what we call the 'blended mode' of study, which combines the flexibility of Web-based learning with the personal guidance of face-to-face tutorials,' said Thomas C.H. Wong, the head of HKCyberU.
Enrolled students receive all their course information online as well as having access to online discussion forums and chat rooms, but tutorials with instructors are conducted on campus.
'This enables students not only to talk through issues with teachers, but also meet and talk to other students. This offers them networking opportunities,' Mr Wong said.
'Before we set up HKCyberU, we spoke to a lot of professionals as well as intended participants. Face-to-face interaction was a factor that kept coming up.
'When we designed the product we wanted to ensure that students would find a welcoming atmosphere,' he said, noting that online students often felt isolated.
'There is certainly a demand for online courses,' he said. 'People want to upgrade themselves, no matter what field they are in. Continual professional development is not so much a matter of choice, but a requirement in today's business world.