HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY · HONG KONG
Research Postgraduate Programme
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
36 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€22k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 2-year full-time MPhil / 3-year full-time PhDProgramme Duration
- Research areas include Drug Discovery, Chemistry, Materials Science, and moreSpecializations
- Opportunities for global research attachmentsInternational Experience
- Eligibility for Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme and other scholarshipsScholarship Opportunities
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) offers research postgraduate programmes leading to MPhil and PhD degrees. These programmes are designed for students seeking to conduct in-depth research in various specialized fields. You will have the opportunity to work with leading academics, contribute to groundbreaking research, and develop advanced research skills. The university encourages international collaboration and offers various opportunities for student exchange and global exposure. The programmes are structured to foster independent research while providing comprehensive support and guidance.
Curriculum
The curriculum for research postgraduate programmes is primarily research-focused. Core components include research seminars, thesis writing, and practical components. Students also have the flexibility to choose elective subjects within their discipline or from other departments, subject to supervisor approval. The programme emphasizes academic integrity and ethical research practices.
- Year 1 (Full-time)
- Presentation Skills for Research StudentsELC6011
- Thesis Writing for Research StudentsELC6012
- Advanced Academic English for Research Students: Publishing and PresentingENGL6016
- Ethics: Research, Professional & Personal PerspectivesHTI6081
- Attendance in research seminars/workshops/conferences IABCT604A
- Practicum IABCT605
- Academic Integrity and Ethics in ScienceABCT5R07
- Year 2 (Full-time)
- Attendance in research seminars/workshops/conferences IIABCT604B
- Practicum IIABCT606
- Electives (Examples)
- Frontier Catalysis: An Approach Towards Cutting-Edge Sustainable ChemistryABCT610
- Analytical BiochemistryABCT611
- Advanced Chemical Instrumentation for ResearchABCT612
- Advanced Interdisciplinary Research in Biological and Chemical SciencesABCT613
- Advanced Chemical BiologyABCT614
- Guided Study on Frontier Research Topics in ChemistryABCT6805
- Guided Study on Frontier Research Topics in BiologyABCT6806
- Guided Study on Frontier Research Topics in Chemical TechnologyABCT6807
Careers
Graduates of the research postgraduate programmes are well-prepared for careers in academia, research institutions, and R&D departments in various industries. The rigorous research training equips them with analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills applicable to diverse professional settings.
- Research Scientist
- University Professor/Lecturer
- R&D Manager
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Industry Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the Research Postgraduate Programme?
- The tuition fee for international students in the Research Postgraduate Programme is HKD 200,000 per academic year.
- How long does the Research Postgraduate Programme typically take to complete?
- The MPhil programme is designed for a 2-year full-time duration, while the PhD programme is typically 3 years for full-time study.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
- International applicants must achieve an overall score of 6.5 in IELTS or 80 in TOEFL iBT. These scores are valid for two years.
- What academic qualifications are needed to apply for the PhD programme?
- For the 3-year full-time PhD, applicants normally need an MPhil or equivalent research postgraduate degree and a Bachelor's degree. For the 4-year full-time PhD, a Master's degree and a Bachelor's degree, or a Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours, is typically required.
- What is the estimated living cost for international students per academic year?
- The estimated living cost, including tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses, is HKD 287,655 per academic year. Note that non-local students must arrange their own accommodation after the first year.
- What are the career prospects after graduating from the research postgraduate programmes?
- Graduates are prepared for careers as Research Scientists, University Professors/Lecturers, R&D Managers, Postdoctoral Researchers, and Industry Consultants.
Entry requirements
MPhil (2-year full-time)Bachelor’s degree with Second Class Honours or above (or equivalent qualification) from a recognized university.
PhD (3-year full-time)Normally an MPhil or equivalent (research postgraduate degree with dissertation) and a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university.
PhD (4-year full-time)Normally a Master’s degree and a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university; OR a Bachelor’s degree with First Class Honours (or equivalent qualification) from a recognized university.
IELTSOverall 6.5
TOEFL iBT80
English language test scores are valid for two years. PolyU may consider equivalent qualifications on an individual basis.
Fees
Tuition (international)HKD 200,000 per academic year
Tuition (home)HKD 47,000 per academic year
LivingEstimated HKD 287,655 per academic year (including tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses)
The estimated living cost includes HK$17,305 for university-managed accommodation (first year only for 2026/27 intake), HK$52,000 for basic meals, and HK$18,350 for personal expenses. Non-local students need to arrange their own accommodation after the first year.
How to apply
1. Identify Research Area and SupervisorExplore the research themes and faculty profiles within the Department of Applied Biology and Chemical Technology (ABCT) to find a suitable research area and supervisor.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather academic transcripts, degree certificates, English language test results, letters of recommendation, and a research proposal (if required).
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete the online application form via the PolyU admissions portal and pay the application fee (HKD500).
4. Attend Interview (if applicable)Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, which can be conducted online or in person.
5. Receive Offer and AcceptSuccessful applicants will receive an admission offer. Review the offer details, including any conditions, and accept by the specified deadline.
Scholarships
Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS)Varies (covers stipend, travel, and research support)
PolyU Research StudentshipVaries (includes stipend)
Departmental ScholarshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the Research Postgraduate Programme?
+
The tuition fee for international students in the Research Postgraduate Programme is HKD 200,000 per academic year.
How long does the Research Postgraduate Programme typically take to complete?
+
The MPhil programme is designed for a 2-year full-time duration, while the PhD programme is typically 3 years for full-time study.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International applicants must achieve an overall score of 6.5 in IELTS or 80 in TOEFL iBT. These scores are valid for two years.
What academic qualifications are needed to apply for the PhD programme?
+
For the 3-year full-time PhD, applicants normally need an MPhil or equivalent research postgraduate degree and a Bachelor's degree. For the 4-year full-time PhD, a Master's degree and a Bachelor's degree, or a Bachelor's degree with First Class Honours, is typically required.
What is the estimated living cost for international students per academic year?
+
The estimated living cost, including tuition, accommodation, meals, and personal expenses, is HKD 287,655 per academic year. Note that non-local students must arrange their own accommodation after the first year.
What are the career prospects after graduating from the research postgraduate programmes?
+
Graduates are prepared for careers as Research Scientists, University Professors/Lecturers, R&D Managers, Postdoctoral Researchers, and Industry Consultants.