This Master of Social Sciences program focuses on Educational Psychology, a field that applies psychological principles to educational settings. It aims to train professionals who are skilled in both research and practice, contributing to the betterment of learning environments. The program is designed to address the specific needs and issues relevant to educational psychology in Hong Kong. It is the first program of its kind in Hong Kong and is accredited by the International School Psychology Association (ISPA). The program admits students every other year.
The full-time curriculum spans two years and comprises 156 credits, including taught courses, practicum, and a dissertation. Special attention is paid to local educational psychology issues. Each credit represents 20 hours of learning activities for taught courses or 27 hours for practicum under supervision. The program includes 21 compulsory courses.
Graduates are trained to work as educational psychologists within various settings, including government education bureaus and schools. The role of educational psychologists in Hong Kong has expanded significantly since their introduction, permeating the broader education system.
For qualifications where English was not the language of teaching or examination. IELTS and TOEFL scores are valid if taken within two years prior to September 1 of the admissions year (for 2026 intake onwards). Preference is given to candidates with two or more years of relevant working experience. A qualifying examination may be required. Applications for exemption are considered case-by-case. Eligibility for Graduate Membership of the Hong Kong Psychological Society is required.
Tuition fees are government-funded for local students. Applications are for the 2026/27 cohort.
International School Psychology Association (ISPA)
International students will be charged HK$224,000 per annum for tuition fees for the 2026/27 cohort.
The full-time curriculum spans two years and includes taught courses, practicum, and a dissertation.
A Bachelor's degree with a major in Psychology or equivalent is required. For English proficiency, an IELTS overall score of 6.0 with no subtest below 5.5 or a TOEFL score of 80 or above is needed if English was not the language of instruction.
Graduates are trained to work as Educational Psychologists in various settings, including government education bureaus and schools.
Applications for the 2026/27 cohort are due by 12:00 noon (GMT +8) on 23 January 2026.
Applications are submitted online through the HKU Taught Postgraduate Admissions system, requiring account creation, form completion, fee payment, and uploading of supporting documents.