Counselling
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Overview
Curriculum
Capstone Experience
Career Prospects
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Overview
Curriculum
Capstone Experience
Career Prospects
Enquiries

Programme Overview
In a globalised and multicultural world, relational and helping skills are essential in various work settings. These skills are recognised as powerful tools for effective communication and decision-making.
This programme offers a comprehensive curriculum, including a wide range of elective courses. Its practical learning approach enables students from diverse disciplines to master the science of compassion. Through a variety of activities in a compassionate learning environment — from self-reflective exercises to group-based experiential learning—students will gain both intellectual and emotional insights into themselves and their relationships with others. Such social and emotional competence is crucial not only in healthcare-related professions but also in education, community development, and business. Although it is not a professional degree, this programme establishes a solid foundation for further professional training in counselling or psychology-related fields.
Objectives
Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Who will benefit from the programme
Recognitions
Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Who will benefit from the programme
Recognitions
By completing this programme, students will gain:

The teaching team prepares students to be:
- Effective in teamwork and conflict resolution while practising compassion towards themselves and others.
- Able to integrate knowledge, skills, and personal awareness, thereby enabling them to work in a wide variety of people-oriented careers.
- Ethically minded in their primary role, utilising counselling knowledge and helping skills to foster relationships and facilitate decision-making with others.
The study of BSS (Counseling) at HKU will primarily benefit students pursuing careers in counseling or related fields. It equips them with theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical understanding to address mental health and social issues effectively.
Additionally, individuals seeking personal growth and a deeper understanding of human behavior and relationships will find value in the program.
Society at large also benefits, as graduates contribute to mental health awareness, support vulnerable populations, and promote well-being in communities. Ultimately, the program empowers students to make a meaningful impact in both professional and personal contexts.
Completion of the BSS Counseling program at HKU, students will enhance their career prospects in mental health, social work, and related fields. Graduates are also recognized for their knowledge and skills in addressing behavioral and social issues, contributing to future professional credibility and societal impact.
Programme Structure

Remarks:
*Candidates who opt to declare two major programmes offered by the Faculty of Social Sciences should avoid selecting overlapping pre-requisites.
BSocSc Regulations and Syllabuses can be found at Faculty of Social Sciences homepage.Roadmap for Mandatory Coursework

SOWK4009 Capstone Project in Counselling

The capstone project is a mandatory course that students majoring in the subject undertake in their final year of study. This project offers an opportunity for students to consolidate their knowledge and skills related to key communication and counselling concepts through experiential learning. In this course, students work collaboratively in groups with community organisations to address significant issues facing specific communities in Hong Kong. Students reflect on and analyse their learning through writing, developing a public exhibition using creative methods, and delivering an oral presentation. The project emphasises the integration of compassionate communication in teamwork throughout the process. Below are some themes and communities that our students have served.
Career Opportunities
This programme prepares students to thrive in human-oriented professions. The holistic learning approach fosters a deep understanding of oneself, communities, and broader societal contexts. Graduates acquire transferable skills, including strong observation and listening abilities, effective communication and decision-making skills, empathy and compassion, as well as an awareness of individual and cultural differences. These skills enable graduates to build rapport with individuals from diverse populations and to promote collaboration and positive outcomes.
Further Studies
Further studies opportunities provided by the Department of Social Work and Social Administration:
Master of Social Work
A professional training programme for non-social work first-degree holders who are dedicated to develop their career in social services. Graduates are qualified for registered Social Work (RSW).
Master of Social Sciences
Master of Expressive Arts Therapy
Master of Philosophy
Prof. Eddie Chong
BSocSc Counselling Programme Coordinator
- echongsk@hku.hk
- (852) 3917 1071
Ms. Karol Cheung
Programme Secretary
- karolckm@hku.hk
- (852) 3917 2099
Ms. Katherine Wong
Programme Assistant
- cwwongka@hku.hk
- (852) 3917 5014
Mr. Sam Lee
Programme Assistant
- snslee@hku.hk
- (852) 3917 2097




