An increasing number of professionals working in the competitive financial services sector in Hong Kong are pursuing more advanced specialised training to equip themselves with updated knowledge and skills.
In response to this growing need, the business school of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) offers the master of science degree in financial analysis (MScFA) and master of science degree in investment management (MScIM) programmes to practising professionals.
These intensive and comprehensive courses also cater to those who plan to develop a career in the finance industry or in finance functions of major corporations, including commercial, retail and private banking, corporate restructuring, risk management, venture capital, hedge funds and mutual funds, and investment management.
According to Professor John Wei, academic director of MScFA and MScIM, faculty members from various departments of the HKUST business school teach courses in the programmes.
'We offer many elective courses and some are taught by experienced industry practitioners,' adds Wei, who is also chair professor of the department of finance.
'Each programme can be completed in 18 months. They feature the 'two-class schedule' pattern for the core and required courses in which students can choose to attend classes on Saturdays only or take evening classes during the week, plus Saturday afternoons. There is also a transfer arrangement between the two programmes before the end of the first academic year.'
Programmes are constantly updated to meet the changing needs of the industry. 'Starting with a solid foundation in accounting, economics, quantitative and computing skills, the curriculum is rounded off with concentrations in corporate finance, security analysis, asset management and risk management. New courses may be added in future in response to industry needs,' Wei says.