UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG · HONG KONG
Master of Social Sciences in Psychology
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€25k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 1 academic year (full-time)Duration
- EnglishLanguage of Instruction
- Offers dissertation or non-dissertation optionsStudy Options
- Eligible for HKPS graduate membershipProfessional Recognition
The Master of Social Sciences in Psychology (MSocSc(Psy)) program builds on a strong foundation in psychology, equipping graduates with theoretical knowledge and research skills. The program aims to prepare students for graduate membership with the Hong Kong Psychological Society and for further advanced studies in specialized fields like Clinical Psychology or Educational Psychology. It emphasizes developing research competence to support careers in psychology and related areas.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed for one academic year of full-time study, with options for a dissertation or a non-dissertation route. The non-dissertation route includes a capstone project and an elective, while the dissertation route requires a thesis. All students complete eight compulsory courses. The 2025/26 academic year syllabus is provided for reference and is subject to university approval.
- Year 1 (Full-time, Dissertation Option)
- Introduction to research methods in psychologyPSYC7301
- Research and quantitative methods in psychologyPSYC7302
- Biological psychologyPSYC7303
- Cognitive psychologyPSYC7304
- Developmental psychologyPSYC7305
- Personality psychologyPSYC7306
- Social psychologyPSYC7307
- Introduction to psychopathologyPSYC7319
- Dissertation in psychologyPSYC7308
- Year 1 (Full-time, Non-Dissertation Option)
- Introduction to research methods in psychologyPSYC7301
- Research and quantitative methods in psychologyPSYC7302
- Biological psychologyPSYC7303
- Cognitive psychologyPSYC7304
- Developmental psychologyPSYC7305
- Personality psychologyPSYC7306
- Social psychologyPSYC7307
- Introduction to psychopathologyPSYC7319
- Capstone project in psychologyPSYC7317
- Elective Course
Careers
This program prepares graduates for advanced professional training and careers in psychology and related fields. It aims to make students eligible for graduate membership of the Hong Kong Psychological Society and for further postgraduate studies.
- Psychologist (after further training)
- Researcher
- Professional in related fields
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Master of Social Sciences in Psychology program?
- The tuition fee for non-Hong Kong students in non-STEM faculties for the 2026-27 academic year is HK$224,000 per year. This fee is subject to change.
- How long is the Master of Social Sciences in Psychology program?
- The program is designed for one academic year of full-time study. You can choose between a dissertation or a non-dissertation route.
- What are the career prospects after completing this program?
- This program prepares graduates for advanced professional training and careers in psychology and related fields. It can also make you eligible for graduate membership of the Hong Kong Psychological Society and further postgraduate studies.
- What are the general entry requirements for the Master of Social Sciences in Psychology?
- Applicants should be university graduates with a Bachelor's degree and a solid foundation in psychology. Exemptions for up to three courses may be granted based on prior equivalent study, but not for research methods courses.
- How do I apply as an international student?
- International students should apply through the Non-JUPAS application route. You will need to prepare documents such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, and letters of recommendation, and submit your application via the HKU International Admissions portal.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- Yes, merit-based Entrance Scholarships are available for outstanding students, potentially covering up to full tuition and living expenses. These are awarded during the admissions process based on academic merit.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's degreeUniversity graduates with a solid foundation in psychology.
Exemptions for up to three courses may be granted based on prior equivalent study, excluding research methods courses (PSYC7301, PSYC7302). Exempted courses must be replaced by postgraduate seminar courses or electives.
Fees
Tuition (international)HK$224,000 per year (for non-Hong Kong students in non-STEM faculties for the 2026-27 academic year).
Tuition (home)HK$47,000 per year (for Hong Kong local undergraduates for the 2026-27 academic year).
LivingEstimated HK$17,290 to HK$37,940 per year for hall accommodation, and HK$30,000 to HK$50,000 per year for off-campus accommodation. General living expenses are estimated at no more than HK$50,000 per year.
Tuition fees are for the 2026-27 academic year and are subject to change. The fee for non-Hong Kong students is specified for non-STEM faculties.
How to apply
1. Check EligibilityEnsure you meet the general university admission requirements and the specific programme prerequisites.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather academic transcripts, degree certificates, English proficiency test scores (if applicable), letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the application form through the HKU International Admissions portal.
4. Application FeePay the non-refundable application fee.
5. Attend Interview (if shortlisted)Selected candidates may be invited for an interview.
6. Receive OfferSuccessful applicants will receive an offer letter.
7. Accept Offer and Pay DepositConfirm your acceptance and pay the required deposit to secure your place.
Scholarships
Entrance ScholarshipsUp to full tuition and living expenses
Accreditation
Graduates are eligible to apply for graduate membership of the Hong Kong Psychological Society.
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Master of Social Sciences in Psychology program?
+
The tuition fee for non-Hong Kong students in non-STEM faculties for the 2026-27 academic year is HK$224,000 per year. This fee is subject to change.
How long is the Master of Social Sciences in Psychology program?
+
The program is designed for one academic year of full-time study. You can choose between a dissertation or a non-dissertation route.
What are the career prospects after completing this program?
+
This program prepares graduates for advanced professional training and careers in psychology and related fields. It can also make you eligible for graduate membership of the Hong Kong Psychological Society and further postgraduate studies.
What are the general entry requirements for the Master of Social Sciences in Psychology?
+
Applicants should be university graduates with a Bachelor's degree and a solid foundation in psychology. Exemptions for up to three courses may be granted based on prior equivalent study, but not for research methods courses.
How do I apply as an international student?
+
International students should apply through the Non-JUPAS application route. You will need to prepare documents such as academic transcripts, degree certificates, and letters of recommendation, and submit your application via the HKU International Admissions portal.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
Yes, merit-based Entrance Scholarships are available for outstanding students, potentially covering up to full tuition and living expenses. These are awarded during the admissions process based on academic merit.