HKU Science launches double degree elite programme 6688 Science Master Class Incubating the next generation of scientists

The Faculty of Science of The University of Hong Kong (HKU) is introducing a new double degree programmme, the 6688 Science Master Class in academic year 2021-22, allowing talented students to complete 2 degrees in 4 years – a Bachelor of Science (BSc) and a Master of Research (MRes) from HKU. This elite programme caters specifically to the needs of science-inclined students, with Science Masters (renowned scientists in the Faculty) helping students achieve their scholastic potential in science.

One of the best ways to learn is to be inspired from those who excel. This programme allows research-aspired students to immerse themselves in an authentic research environment and learn from researchers from diverse backgrounds, incubating the next generation of dynamic scientists who are able to translate scientific knowledge into practical applications with far- and wide-reaching impacts. We have renowned scientists including Members of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong Academy of Sciences, Hong Kong Young Academy of Sciences, International Members of National Academy of Sciences USA, Foreign Member of Academia Europaea, awardees of State Natural Science Awards and a number of highly cited scientists.

“We understand the learning pace and needs of highly able students might be different – they are quick learners who can usually accomplish more than expected, which a standard pedagogical routine might not be an ideal option for them. Skills alone would not make one succeed. It is the attitude, visions and efforts that set one’s direction. Learning from our Grand Masters and Masters, our top scholars who have exceptional accomplishments in their research areas, will definitely help our students broaden their horizon and establish personal network, facilitating their pursuit of research career in the future,” said Professor Matthew Evans, Dean of Faculty of Science.

Where will this Programme lead our students

• Career development & network
  – Nurtures students who intend to pursue research in science
  – After completing the programme, students will be fully equipped to further pursue graduate studies in prominent university overseas or in HKU
  – Builds a consortium of young researchers for cross fertilisation of innovative ideas and facilitate possible multidisciplinary projects
• Transferable skills
  – Provides students with extensive subject knowledge and specialised training
  – Nurtures a scientifically literate population to formulate solutions for research challenges

What the programme covers
A list of Intensive Majors is appended below:

*Some of the Intensive Majors fulfill the accreditation requirements of various societies in the UK
Courses such as research ethics, research postgraduate course and research project, will be offered to students to enhance their scientific method and research skills.
In addition to the study of disciplinary-based Intensive Majors, an array of opportunities in our flagship Young Science Scheme (YSS) including entrance scholarship, Cambridge-track**, Summer Research Fellowship, Overseas Research Fellowship and International exchange studies are also available to the students.
**Only available to Majors in Natural Sciences disciplines; candidates will then follow the track if admitted to Cambridge successfully.

From the left: Professor Alice WONG, Associate Dean (Teaching & Learning), Faculty of Science, Professor Vivian Wing Wah YAM, Philip Wong Wilson Wong Professor in Chemistry and Energy and Chair Professor of Chemistry, Professor Wing Sum CHEUNG, Director of Undergraduate Admissions, Faculty of Science.

Supplementary Information
How to apply
JUPAS Applicants
Students in local secondary schools taking the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) should apply through JUPAS. Minimum requirements for the programmes:
English Language#:Level 5 or above; Chinese Language: Level 3 or above; Mathematics and Extended Modules 1 or 2 in Mathematics (M1/M2): Level 4 or above; 2 Science elective subjects##: Level 3 or above; Liberal Studies: Level 2 or above
#Candidates with level 4 in English Language but with excellent results in Science subjects/ Mathematics will be exceptionally considered on a case-by-case basis.
##Science elective subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Combined Science and Integrated Science
Non-JUPAS Applicants
Non-JUPAS applicants will be considered on a case-by-case basis.  Higher level Mathematics is required for IB students.  For GCEAL students, Mathematics and Further Mathematics are required.  Excellent results in Mathematics are required for students with other qualifications.

Quota:15-20
Scholarships:

• Entrance scholarship
• Scholarships will be provided to cover at least 50% of the tuition fee of the MRes programme

Our Grand Masters

Introduction of Grand Masters and details of the Programme can be viewed at: https://www.scifac.hku.hk/prospective/ug/6688-science-master-class/introduction