HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY · HONG KONG
Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development
Master's · Taught in en · UCAS 54055
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.0
IELTS
€28k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 1 year (Full-time)Duration
- 31 creditsCredits Required
- Mixed ModeMode of Study
- Self-FinancedFunding Type
- HK$252,000Tuition Fee
- HK$287,655 (estimated annual)Living Costs
The Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development (MASPSD) program is designed to equip students with the professional and personal capabilities needed to work effectively in social policy and social development. It focuses on developing critical knowledge and skills to analyze local and global policy issues, and to formulate and assess policy options that lead to sustainable and appropriate outcomes, upholding social justice and enhancing social well-being. The program integrates theory and practice, preparing students to address social development challenges ethically and innovatively. This program is ideal for individuals considering a career in social policy or social development, as well as mid-career professionals aiming to deepen their understanding of public and non-government sectors. It offers rigorous, interdisciplinary, and practical training across academic, managerial, and professional fields, enabling students to translate knowledge into action through responsible policy analysis, formulation, impact assessment, and evaluation. Graduates will possess the foundational competence in social policy analysis applicable to various human service fields and social development practices, enabling them to effectively engage in social policy processes, conduct needs assessments, and develop relevant policy options for emerging challenges.
Curriculum
The curriculum requires students to complete 31 credits. The program adopts a blended learning approach, incorporating online sessions, classroom instruction, skill laboratories, and potentially other modes. Specific module details for each year are not provided, but the program emphasizes multi-method approaches to teaching and learning.
- Year 1 (Full-time)
- Years 1-2 (Part-time)
Careers
Graduates of the Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development program are prepared for diverse roles in social policy and development. The program aims to equip students with the skills to analyze, formulate, and evaluate policies effectively, making them valuable assets in various sectors.
- Social Policy Analyst
- Social Development Officer
- Programme Manager in NGOs
- Government Policy Advisor
- Community Development Worker
- Researcher in Social Sciences
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development program?
- The tuition fee for the program is HK$252,000, which breaks down to HK$8,400 per credit. This fee is the same for both local and non-local students.
- What is the estimated total cost for non-local students per academic year?
- The estimated total cost for non-local students is around HK$287,655 per academic year, which includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses.
- How long does the Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development program take to complete?
- The program can be completed in 1 year of full-time study or across 2 years of part-time study, requiring a total of 31 credits.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for this program?
- For English proficiency, applicants typically need a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 80 for the internet-based test.
- What are the application deadlines for the program?
- Application deadlines are typically October 15, 2025 for the Early Round, January 15, 2026 for the Main Round, and April 15, 2026 for the Extended Round, with an intended intake in September 2026.
- What career opportunities are available for graduates of this program?
- Graduates can pursue roles such as Social Policy Analyst, Social Development Officer, Programme Manager in NGOs, Government Policy Advisor, Community Development Worker, and Researcher in Social Sciences.
Entry requirements
GeneralApplicants should have a recognized Bachelor's degree or an equivalent professional qualification. A good honours degree or its equivalent is usually required. For applicants whose prior degree is not in a related discipline, relevant work experience will be an advantage. Applicants may be invited to attend an interview. The University's general admission requirements will also apply.
IELTS6.0
TOEFL80 for internet-based
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Applications are considered on a rolling basis, and early applications are strongly encouraged. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview. Qualified candidates will be notified via eAdmission. If all vacancies are filled, remaining qualified applicants will be placed on a waiting list.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$252,000 per programme (HK$8,400 per credit). Note: No tuition fee is required for the 1-credit Academic Integrity and Ethics subject.
Tuition (home)HK$252,000 per programme (HK$8,400 per credit). Note: No tuition fee is required for the 1-credit Academic Integrity and Ethics subject.
LivingAround HK$287,655 per academic year for non-local students, including tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses.
The tuition fee is the same for local and non-local students. The estimated living cost provided is for guidance and may vary. Accommodation fees for subsequent years may differ and students are advised to arrange their own accommodation outside the university halls if needed.
How to apply
1. Check Admission RequirementsEnsure you meet the academic and English language proficiency requirements for the MA in Social Policy and Social Development program.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, degree certificates, English test scores, and identification.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form via the PolyU eAdmission system (https://www38.polyu.edu.hk/eAdmission/index.jsf). Pay the application fee of HK$500.
4. Attend Interview (if required)Shortlisted candidates will be notified and invited to attend an interview, which may be conducted online or in person.
5. Receive Offer NotificationAdmission decisions will be communicated through the eAdmission system.
6. Accept Offer and Pay DepositIf an offer is received, follow the instructions to accept and pay any required deposit by the specified deadline.
Scholarships
Entry ScholarshipsAvailable
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development program?
+
The tuition fee for the program is HK$252,000, which breaks down to HK$8,400 per credit. This fee is the same for both local and non-local students.
What is the estimated total cost for non-local students per academic year?
+
The estimated total cost for non-local students is around HK$287,655 per academic year, which includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses.
How long does the Master of Arts in Social Policy and Social Development program take to complete?
+
The program can be completed in 1 year of full-time study or across 2 years of part-time study, requiring a total of 31 credits.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for this program?
+
For English proficiency, applicants typically need a minimum IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL score of 80 for the internet-based test.
What are the application deadlines for the program?
+
Application deadlines are typically October 15, 2025 for the Early Round, January 15, 2026 for the Main Round, and April 15, 2026 for the Extended Round, with an intended intake in September 2026.
What career opportunities are available for graduates of this program?
+
Graduates can pursue roles such as Social Policy Analyst, Social Development Officer, Programme Manager in NGOs, Government Policy Advisor, Community Development Worker, and Researcher in Social Sciences.