For programmes by cousework and dissertation, students are required to attend classes regularly and sit for a written examination at the end of every term.  Students are also required to submit a dissertation on a project approved by the Dean of the School concerned.

For programmes by research, students are required to pursue an independent but supervised research on an approved topic based on which a thesis must be submitted for examination. Students are also required to attend classes and pass the examinations in at least 3 to 6 subjects.
For the degree of Doctor of Philosophy, there is also an oral examination on the subject matter on the thesis and other related subjects. For the Master's degree, an oral examination may also be required at the discretion of the University.

Q2. When can I apply for admission to programmes by coursework and dissertation and when will the next academic year begin?

Invitations for applications will be announced in the press and on our web page in September/October (for admission in January) or December/January (for admission in July). Applications are to be submitted electronically only via our web page. Any other form of submission will not be accepted.

Q3. I have a degree from a foreign university - am I eligible to apply for admission to programmes by coursework and dissertation?

As long as you meet the basic requirements of a particular programme of study, you are eligible to apply for admission to that programme.  The Selection Committee will evaluate each application on a case-by-case basis.

Q4. I do not have the minimum work experience as required - can I still apply for admission to programmes by coursework and dissertation?

Related work experience will certainly be considered favourably by the Selection Committee.  However, if you do not have the required work experience, you may still apply for admission.

Q5. When will I know the results of my application?

You will be notified of the result by end of December (for admission in January) or end of June (for admission in July). Notification will be sent via email for those who have email accounts. Thereafter, as and when vacancies arise, offers may still be made to selected applicants up to the end of the second week of term.

Q6. If I am selected for admission, when do I need to pay the tuition fees?

The bills will be sent to you by the Office of Finance after you register your candidature with the University. Students who have attended lessons beyond the second week of a term are liable for payment of fees for the entire term. Payment of fees is computed on a semester/trimester basis, there is no pro-ration.

Q7. I am unable to continue with my programme of study for a period of time - what should I do?

Candidates who need to be excused from their studies must apply for leave of absence. Applications for leave of absence must be submitted directly to the respective Programme Coordinators at least 7 working days before the leave. The reasons for the application must be clearly stated and relevant supporting documents must be attached.

You should submit your application as soon as possible as it may take some time before a decision (on granting the leave) can be made. Do note that candidates who go on leave of absence after having attended lessons for more than 2 weeks in a term shall have to pay fees due for the entire term.

The leave period granted will be counted towards the maximum period of candidature.

Q8. I am reaching my maximum period of candidature but I don't think I can complete my degree requirements by then. What should I do?

Extension of candidature period is an option but such a request is subject to the approval of the Dean.

You can make an application for extension of candidature to the Graduate Studies Office in formal writing, stating the reason(s) and the period of extension required. Documentary evidence in support of your application must be provided.

Students are liable for fees during the extended period of candidature.

Students whose candidature have expired and did not apply for extension of candidature will automatically have their names deleted from the University register.

Q9. Due to some unforseen circumstances, I wish to withdraw from my programme of study - what is the procedure?

You need to inform the Graduate Studies Office in formal writing, stating the reason for your withdrawal. Candidates who withdraw from their studies after having attended lessons for more than 2 weeks in a term shall have to pay fees due for the entire term.