These economically depressed times are reshaping school leavers' university subject choices. Professional and more general qualifications are emerging as this year's most sought-after programmes thanks to their flexibility and promise of job security.
Applicants are gravitating towards courses that allow more elasticity, offering a broad subject overview before focusing on any one specialisation.
The University of Hong Kong's (HKU) top draws this year - bachelor of science and bachelor of engineering programmes - were restructured to reflect this trend. They each consolidated their range of courses under one common degree so that students can postpone making a decision on their specialisation.
'The new programme structure has boosted applicant numbers. Students now have the first semester to explore which of the 12 disciplines they wish to specialise in before making an informed choice in the second semester,' said Cheung Kie-chung, HKU associate professor and chairman of the engineering admissions committee.
'The recession also triggered more engineering applications because it remains a relatively stable industry. Engineers are generally assured of a good sustainable income regardless of the economy.'
Professor Cheung said civil engineering and logistics engineering were two of the most popular specialisations because they held the best job prospects.
As of last month, 1,564 students, applying through the Joint University Programmes Admissions System, placed the university's engineering course among their top three choices.