Health Science

The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Health Science at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a solid foundation in health sciences, preparing them for diverse careers in the healthcare sector. This multidisciplinary course integrates principles from biology, chemistry, physiology, and public health to provide students with an in-depth understanding of human health and disease. Throughout the program, students will develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and evidence-based problem-solving abilities essential for addressing contemporary health challenges.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, offering a blend of lectures, laboratory work, and field studies. Students will explore various topics including health promotion, disease prevention, healthcare management, and health policy. The program also encourages active engagement with real-world health issues through internships and collaborative projects with healthcare organizations, enabling students to gain valuable hands-on experience and professional insights.

Dedicated to fostering a holistic approach to health sciences, the program encourages students to consider social, environmental, and ethical factors influencing health outcomes. Graduates will be well-prepared for employment in hospitals, clinics, community health organizations, government agencies, and research institutions. They may also pursue advanced degrees or certifications in related fields such as public health, nursing, or healthcare administration.

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University’s state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty members, and strong industry connections provide an excellent learning environment for aspiring health professionals. The Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Health Science aims to produce competent, compassionate, and innovative graduates committed to improving health and well-being in local and global communities. Whether students aspire to enter clinical practice, research, or health policy development, this program offers comprehensive education and training to support their career aspirations in the dynamic health sector.

The programme covers 8 Doctoral Subjects, including 4 Compulsory Subjects and 4 Elective Subjects, and a Doctoral Thesis. The Compulsory Subjects aim to provide students with a core foundation in healthcare concept analysis, research and knowledge translation within the reality of the ethical-sociological-economic context of healthcare provision.

The Elective options and the Doctoral Thesis allow students to develop an individualised programme of study for acquiring, appraising, synthesising and applying knowledge in a substantive specialised area. The mentored research experience serves to strengthen students' skills in the conduct of disciplinary enquiry.

Candidates are required to complete the coursework requirement with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or above and a Doctoral Thesis to be eligible for the award of Doctor of Health Science.

Students can choose to graduate with the following awards/specialisms:

• Doctor of Health Science (generic award)
• Doctor of Health Science (Medical Imaging and Radiation Science) 
• Doctor of Health Science (Medical Laboratory Science)
• Doctor of Health Science (Nursing)
• Doctor of Health Science (Occupational Therapy)
• Doctor of Health Science (Optometry) 
• Doctor of Health Science (Physiotherapy)
• Doctor of Health Science (Prosthetics and Orthotics)

To be eligible for the specialism concerned, students should complete a thesis related to that specialism plus a 3-credit specialty subject. Furthermore, they should hold a Bachelor's degree or a Master's degree in a relevant discipline or possess professional qualification in a relevant discipline to fulfil the registration requirements of certain professions.

Compulsory Subjects

• Concept Analysis in Health Care
• Health Care Ethics
• Advanced Quantitative Methods
• Health Economics or Issues in Health Sociology 

Elective Subjects

• Advanced Statistics in Health Care Research
• Advanced Methods in Qualitative Health Care Research
• Advanced Study in Autism Spectrum Disorder
• Information Technology in Health Care
• Evidence Based Practice
• Independent Study in a Substantive Specialty
• Gender and Health
• Health and Social Policy Analysis
• Health Systems: Management and Organization
• Pain Management: A Multidimensional Approach
• Other Elective Options (e.g. specialty subjects, or subjects offered by PolyU's other professional doctoral and postgraduate programmes subject to the approval of the Programme Leader)

Requirements

• A Master's degree in a health-related discipline or the equivalent; 
  AND
• At least 5 years of substantial professional health care experience.
• If you are not a native speaker of English, and your Bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification is awarded by institutions where the medium of instruction is not English, you are expected to fulfil the University’s minimum English language requirement for admission purpose. 
• Transcript / Certificate

Scholarships

• Research studentship with a stipend of HK$15,000 per month (subject to revision) for full-time research students based on academic merit (subject to the decision of the Department) 
• One extra year of studentship for students with outstanding academic performance 
• Tuition scholarships for students with outstanding academic records

The Bachelor of Health Science at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for diverse careers in the health sector. This program emphasizes foundational knowledge in health sciences, including human anatomy, physiology, epidemiology, and health promotion, equipping students with a broad understanding of health issues from biological, psychological, and social perspectives. The curriculum integrates theoretical coursework with practical experience, offering opportunities for internships, community engagement, and research projects to enhance real-world skills.

Students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills, which are essential for addressing complex health challenges. The program also focuses on interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates to work alongside healthcare professionals, policymakers, and community organizations. Specializations or elective tracks may include public health, health management, or rehabilitation sciences, providing students with specialized knowledge relevant to specific healthcare fields.

The department maintains close ties with industry stakeholders, ensuring the curriculum remains aligned with current trends and workforce needs. Facilities such as laboratories, simulation rooms, and resource centers support experiential learning. The program typically spans four years, with opportunities for international exchange and study visits to broaden students’ global perspectives on health issues.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Health Science are well-equipped to pursue careers in healthcare administration, public health agencies, health promotion, research institutions, or continue their education in postgraduate health studies. The program aims to produce competent, ethical, and socially responsible health professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the improvement of health and well-being in local, regional, and global contexts.