Introduction
The Department of Applied Social Sciences (APSS) is committed to serving the community through the dynamic integration of education, research and service through its applied social science research. APSS’s position as a large social sciences department with diverse areas of interest and expertise under one roof, and its location within a health and social science faculty, offers an advantageous position in inter-disciplinary research networks and initiatives. APSS research is characterised by:
- A strong emphasis on social needs and policy relevant research;
- A commitment to enhancing social betterment and improving the well-being of individuals, children, families and disadvantaged groups in our community;
- A preference for collaborative work with partnering institutions in Hong Kong, China and the region; and
- A commitment to developing theories of indigenous knowledge and practices.
Family, Child, Youth, and Ageing Studies
- Active ageing; elderly abuse; elderly care
- Child development; child abuse
- Family studies; family violence; family therapy; parent education
- Positive youth development; youth leadership; guidance and counselling
- Youth deviant behaviours; youth and drug; youth and gambling; addiction prevention
Numerous opportunities for research studies leading to Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree are available. Under our outcome-based framework, research students pursue a series of compulsory and elective subjects in depth, with a view to contributing to the existing body of knowledge, as well as a research project under the supervision of an experienced academic staff member with similar research interests.
MPhil students must satisfactorily investigate or evaluate a chosen area, demonstrate an understanding of the context and significance of the work, display sustained independent effort and original thought and present a clear, complete thesis of a quality worthy of publication.
The MPhil degree is awarded to students who, on completion of an approved programme of study and research, present theses that embody the results of their research and satisfy the examiners in an oral examination in matters relevant to the subject of the thesis. Students must also complete the coursework requirement before submitting their theses. The subjects are chosen by the student, with advice from the supervisor, from a wide range on offer.