Curriculum

Curriculum Structure

First Major (BSc in Interdisciplinary Data Analytics) + Second Major

Options of Second Major (Choose one from the following participating majors offered by CUHK or CUHK(SZ):

Majors offered by CUHK

Information Engineering

Information Engineering (IE) focuses on the generation, storage, transmission, and processing of information and data to connect people and objects for a smarter world. It bridges the areas that are more related to computer science such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, software engineering, computer networks, mobile and cloud computing, and social networking, with the areas that are more related to (the communications aspect of) electrical engineering such as optical communications, wireless communications, Internet engineering, multimedia processing, and theory and mathematics underlying communications.

Established in 1989, the IE Department at CUHK was the first and is still the only Information Engineering Department in Hong Kong. It helped Hong Kong make its first connection to the Internet and set up a large education network for schools to use. IE graduates have excellent career prospects in software and hardware systems, as well as the upcoming areas such as data analytics, artificial intelligence, and cyber security. Ten percent (10%) of graduates have furthered their postgraduate studies in top schools worldwide.

Integrated BBA

Mathematics

In Mathematics, we study quantities, structures, spaces and changes. We explore how the beauty and complexity of mathematical concepts shape our world and the nature. We identify patterns, formulate conjectures, and then establish truths via rigorous deductions that are based on appropriately chosen axioms and definitions.

In CUHK, the Mathematics major covers both pure and applied mathematics. There is both breadth and depth to our curriculum. Students can choose from a wide range of courses according to their interests, abilities, and career aspirations.

Established in 1963, the Department of Mathematics at CUHK has now developed into a world-class department, known for its excellence in education, research, and knowledge transfer. Our faculty consists of experienced researchers and educators who are passionate about fostering a dynamic learning environment. We are particularly strong in the following research directions: Analysis, Computational and Applied Mathematics, Geometry and Topology, Number Theory, Partial Differential Equations as well as Representation Theory.

Statistic

Statistics is a scientific discipline centered on the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data. It serves as a cornerstone for numerous fields, including natural sciences, medical sciences, social sciences, business, and engineering, all of which rely on quantitative data analysis. To address the growing demand for well-trained statistics graduates in the Information Age, the programme offers a well-rounded curriculum that balances theoretical foundations with practical applications. The programme covers a wide range of topics, such as the fundamentals of statistics, computing and data management, statistical theories and methods, as well as applications in areas like business, finance, medicine, actuarial science, quality control, and risk management. In addition to coursework, Statistics majors participate in workshops, case studies, and projects supervised by faculty members. These activities broaden their knowledge, enhance their practical skills, and provide hands-on experience in solving real-world problems.

Systems Engineering and Engineering Management

Systems Engineering and Engineering Management (SEEM) trains students to utilize technologies (such as machine learning, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence) and mathematical tools (such as optimization, stochastic modeling, and simulation) to tackle decision-making problems for businesses, including, but not limited to,

financial investment decisions and risk management

developing, pricing, and risk analysis of new financial products

designing the supply chain network for global business

large-scale route planning and scheduling in logistics systems

dynamic pricing for the airline industry or e-commerce platforms

patient flow management in healthcare systems

developing, supporting, managing, and maintaining information systems and apps for data-intensive business applications

Majors offered by CUHK(SZ)

Computer Science and Engineering

Computer Science and Engineering (SZ)

Computer Science and Engineering integrates the foundational principles of computer science with practical engineering applications. The curriculum encompasses a diverse range of topics, including computer fundamentals, programming, artificial intelligence, system design, data engineering, and multimedia. Through a combination of theoretical coursework and hands-on projects, students acquire essential skills that prepare them for successful careers in software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and beyond. As technology continues to advance, the Computer Science and Engineering fosters critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and creativity, empowering graduates to lead future innovations in the tech industry.

Electrical and Computer Engineering (SZ)

Electrical and Computer Engineering equips students with foundational knowledge and advanced skills in electronic information and computer engineering. By integrating knowledge from multiple disciplines—including robotics, microelectronics, signal processing, communication networks, and control theory—it fosters a comprehensive understanding of modern technologies. This interdisciplinary approach enables graduates to develop versatile skill sets, paving the way for diverse career opportunities in fields such as smart hardware, robotics, the Internet of Things (IoT), big data analytics, cloud computing and artificial intelligence (AI).

At the forefront of technological innovation driven by AI, the Electrical and Computer Engineering emphasizes two core areas: electronic information engineering, which focuses on building the underlying infrastructure for communication and computation, and computer engineering, which cultivates expertise in computer systems and AI applications. It is designed to nurture innovative and entrepreneurial talents with a global perspective. Leveraging the thriving local industries in Internet, communications, integrated circuits (IC) and AI, students gain valuable opportunities to engage with industry professionals, stay abreast of industry trends, and develop entrepreneurial capabilities.

Statistic (SZ)

Statistics is the discipline of the collection, analysis, and interpretation of research data to obtain information and support decision-making. Statistics has been widely used in various fields, from research in biology, social sciences, and natural sciences to applications in accounting, finance, medicine, engineering, and government decision-making. It aims to cultivate high-level talents who are innovative, scientific and engineering, help students understand the wide application of statistics in various fields, broaden their knowledge structure, and cultivate their ability to solve various practical problems. Students can be widely exposed to and learn problems in various fields of business, engineering, natural science and social science, so that they can master the basic theory of statistics and acquire the method skills needed to analyze and solve practical problems.

Financial Engineering (SZ)

Financial Engineering equips students with sound financial modeling and forecasting skills, and are ideally suited to positions and tasks that require strong quantitative and analytical skills such as valuation, portfolio analysis, asset allocation, credit analysis, risk modeling, and structured finance. Financial Engineering also provides a good foundation for careers in investment banking, commercial and corporate banking and financial services.

Mathematics and Applied Mathematics (SZ)

Mathematics and Applied Mathematics is designed to give students a firm grounding in mathematics and cultivate their mathematical thinking ability, analytical research ability, and standardized expression ability, so that students have a solid subject foundation and the ability to discover, identify and solve problems using mathematical methods. In addition to fundamental mathematical theories, students will be trained in applying mathematical methods to find and solve practical problems in areas as diverse as physics, chemistry, energy, biology, engineering technology, scientific computing, internet technology, business, finance, management, life science and social science.

Marketing and Communication(SZ)

Marketing and Communication is a comprehensive applied discipline that balances both scientific and artistic elements. The curriculum design covers multi-disciplinary areas such as marketing, economics, psychology, management, and data science, emphasizing the integration of business theories with applied practices to cultivate students' ability to solve complex business problems. It is dedicated to cultivating innovative marketing professionals with a global vision, the pursuit of excellence, and strong innovative capabilities.

Spend 2 years in CUHK and 2 years in CUHK(SZ)

Students can access a list of equivalent courses between CUHK and CUHK(SZ) to complete the required and elective courses on either campus, following a well-designed study pattern, to fulfill the graduation requirements of their home campus.

Lists of Equivalence / Substitution of Courses between CUHK and CUHK(SZ) for students admitted by CUHK [for 2023-24] [for 2024-25] [for 2025-26]

Lists of Equivalence / Substitution of Courses between CUHK and CUHK(SZ) for students admitted by CUHK(SZ) [for 2023-24] [for 2024-25] [for 2025-26]

Arrangements for fulfilment of the University Core Requirements for students admitted by CUHK and CUHK(SZ)

Receive the degree of the first major at the home campus upon completion of all degree requirements of the home campus

Both the first major and the second major will be printed on the transcript and degree certificate

Study Pattern

For more information for the Co-op Programme, please visit Co-op@CUHK.

Career Prospects

The programme is ideally suited for students interested in pursuing a career in leading national organizations and multi-national enterprises committed to developing markets in GBA or Chinese Mainland.

Frequently Asked Questions

Academics

Is it necessary for CUHK students to choose a second major that is offered by CUHK(SZ)?

Students could have different choices of selecting either Shatin-based majors or Shenzhen-based majors, while still required to study at CUHK(SZ) for two years.

Do students need to choose the second major at the point of admission?

No. Students will choose the Second Major after they have completed one year of study.

If I study the IDADM programme, shall I earn a Bachelor degree from both universities?

You will be awarded a Bachelor's degree from the admitted programme of CUHK or CUHK(SZ). For example, a CUHK student will be awarded a B.Sc. in Interdisciplinary Data Analytics; a CUHK(SZ) student will be awarded a Bachelor's degree of the First Major programme. Both the First Major and the Second Major will be printed on the transcript and degree certificate.

Shall I be registered as a full-time student in both campuses and how much is the tuition fee?

If you are admitted by CUHK, you will maintain the status of a full-time CUHK registered student even when you are studying in CUHK(SZ); you will pay the regular tuition fee of CUHK but enjoy the welfare entitled for a full-time student on both campuses, and vice versa for CUHK(SZ) students.

How is the degree honour determined in IDADM?

The degree classification will be based on your performance in courses taken at both campuses.

Will it take me longer to graduate if I join the Co-op programme?

You will work full-time with pay during the work terms (summer break of Year 3 and first term of Year 4), i.e. from around May to December. With careful planning it is possible to complete all units for graduation within the normative study year. Advices will be given to you on how to devise an appropriate study plan.

Applying to IDADM

Who should apply to the IDADM programme?

This programme targets elite students who are:

keen to build knowledge and skills in data analytics across Business, Science and Engineering
enthusiastic to learn from the same cohort of elite students with a different background
eager for exposure to new challenges in other cities
ready to build a personal network in order to develop a career in innovation and technology

How can I apply for the IDADM programme?

For HK students: apply through JUPAS (with HKDSE qualification) or to CUHK directly through Non-JUPAS (with IB, GCE-AL, and etc.) channels.
For International students: apply to CUHK directly through Non-JUPAS (overseas / other qualifications). The requirements are similar to the Non-JUPAS (local) admission.
For SZ students: apply through the admitted programmes at CUHK(SZ) that participate in the IDADM.

How many students are admitted to IDADM each year?

The target intake for each cohort is about 40-50, with 20-25 each from Hong Kong and Shenzhen campus.

Do I need to go through an admission interview process?

We plan to invite shortlisted applicants for an admission interview administered by the IDADM programme.

What should I prepare before attending the interview?

The IDADM programme is looking for students who have the following skills and experience, which need time to build and accumulate. Start the preparation well before the interview.

Strong interest in data science and its application
Good mathematical skills
Experience in cross-cultural activities
Good interpersonal skills
Demonstrable self-leadership
Good communication skills

Student Life

Is accommodation arranged for me during the period of study?

On campus accommodation will be provided to you during your study in the host campus, at a cost equivalent to other regular students. However, you need to go through the normal procedure of applying hostel accommodation during the study at your own institution (home campus).

Would I be able to join the College and its activities?

You will be assigned to a College on each campus and enjoy its facilities (include hostel, dining hall, and etc.) and College events.

Would I be able to apply for scholarships?

You are eligible to apply for scholarships and other financial assistance from your own university (home campus).

Can I join exchange programmes offered by either of the two campuses?

You are eligible to join the exchange programmes offered by your own university (home campus). However, you must pay attention whether the credits earned from attending courses in the exchange activities can be transferred to CUHK or CUHK(SZ). We would provide assistance to you to design a good and reasonable study plan.