Healthy prospects in nursing

The rapid expansion of private healthcare provision in Hong Kong has unsurprisingly led to a growing local demand for nursing staff. However, the expectations placed on these professionals have also increased.

"These days, we don't just want nurses to possess strong theoretical knowledge, we also want them to be critical and innovative thinkers, have good interpersonal skills and have the knowledge to conduct research," says Dr Susan Chow Ka-yee, assistant professor and programme leader for the master's of nursing at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU).

Based on the American model, the master's of nursing is jointly run by PolyU and the Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital (HKSH). Launched in 2008, the master's is a one of a kind in Southeast Asia.

Chow explains that applicants for enrolment can have any degree from a recognised university, and must be able to speak and write Cantonese and English.

"People come from all walks of life - some of them [studied or worked in] business, science, the Chinese or Japanese languages, counselling and hotel management," says Chow.

"The majority of the students have one or two years' work experience, while a few have more than 10 years' experience, and others still are fresh graduates. They join the programme because they want to change their lives and make a difference," she adds.