Undergraduate Courses 2022-23

a) Undergraduate courses marked with [BLD] or [SPO] may be offered in the mode of blended learning or self-paced online delivery respectively, subject to different offerings. Students should check the delivery mode of the class section before registration.

b) Undergraduate courses marked with [EXP] may adopt the approach of experiential learning subject to different offerings. Students should check the delivery mode of the class section before registration.

• CORE 1001

  Entrepreneurship 1001: Designing Your Future

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ENTR 1001

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [EXP] Experiential learning

  Description

  This course introduces a variety of key entrepreneurship competence including skills, knowledge, and mindsets. Through working on student-centric and team-based projects, students will learn through the practice of entrepreneurship. In addition to experiential learning, students will also participate in in-depth conversations with entrepreneurs from all walks of life. Students will have opportunities to gain authentic entrepreneurial experiences and embark on their own entrepreneurial journey. This course does not require students to have previous entrepreneurial experience or any form of business training. Students from all majors and backgrounds are welcome!
• CORE 1110

  Physics and the Modern Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  PHYS 1001

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x Physics or HKDSE 1x Physics; any PHYS courses at 1100-level or above

  Description

  This course is for students with no physics background. Course content: Principle of scientific theories and methods, Aristotle's law, Newtonian mechanics. Thermal physics, heat engine, energy crisis and global warming. Nature of waves and the physics of hearing and vision. Electricity and magnetism, electromagnetic waves and telecommunication. Relativity, quantum physics, nuclear energy and semiconductor. Developments and outlook of contemporary physics.
• CORE 1111

  Energy and Related Environmental Issues

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  PHYS 1003

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course will introduce the basic concepts of the physical principles behind energy. Forms of energy (including fossil energy, nuclear energy and various forms of renewable energy) and their use for electricity generation, as well as their impacts on the environment from both global and regional perspectives will be covered. Issues related to energy conservation and related environmental issues in Hong Kong and the rest of the world will be addressed.
• CORE 1112

  Quantum Information for Everyone

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  PHYS 1007

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  PHYS 4812

  Description

  Information cannot exist without a physical system to represent it. Quantum physics enables some fundamental new ways of information processing. In recent years, quantum information processing (QIP) has emerged as one of the “most fiercely competitive in today’s world of technology”. This course offers an introduction to the past, present and future of QIP. The theme is to explain the major ideas and issues in QIP, and how this new technology will change our understanding of information processing. The course starts from a gentle introduction to quantum theory without assuming any physics background, then moves to the key applications of QIP including quantum computing, quantum cryptography, and quantum communication. Besides theory, demonstrations and hands-on experiences with quantum hardware will also be given. Students will benefit from learning quantum information technology in an interdisciplinary environment, with knowledge and skills for comprehending the fast-paced developments in today’s technological world.
• CORE 1120

  Chemistry in Everyday Life

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CHEM 1004

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE Chemistry, a passing grade in GCE-A/AS Level Chemistry, CHEM 1008, CHEM 1010, CHEM 1020, CHEM 1030, any CHEM courses at or above 2000-level

  Description

  This common core course takes students on a chemical journey, through which they will learn what is chemistry and how chemistry connects with every part of our daily life. Students will engage in an experiential learning study project and a mini-research task; they will also learn chemical concepts through many real-life case studies. The basic ideas and principles of chemistry, as well as many chemical topics of everyday relevance will be discussed in this course: such as air, water, metals, minerals, air pollution, global warming, ozone depletion, batteries, fire and fuels, food and drinks, household chemical products and plastics. Students taking this course are not required to have studied Chemistry before.
• CORE 1121

  Introduction to Chemistry of Cosmetics

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CHEM 1002

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course concentrates on the basic scientific principles in cosmetic science. Various topics with emphasis on molecular approach related to cosmetic products' formulation and proper uses of cosmetic products will be covered. Major topics include definition of cosmetics, make-up cosmetics, skin-care cosmetics, hair-care cosmetics, vehicles of cosmetic products, surfactants, colorants, alpha hydroxyl acids & beta hydroxyl acids, anti-oxidants and sunscreens, skin-whitening agents, hydrating substances / moisturizers, antiperspirants & deodorants and botanical ingredients.
• CORE 1130

  Biology of Human Health

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  LIFS 1020

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  Level 3 or above in HKDSE 1/2x Biology or in HKDSE 1x Biology, LIFS 1901, LIFS 1902

  Description

  This course introduces the basic biological principles of human health and diseases with an emphasis on the contemporary leading causes of death in Hong Kong and the world. Topics mainly focus on common and emerging diseases, aging, and the influence of biotechnology, environment, and culture on human health.
• CORE 1140

  Environmental Science

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  OCES 1030

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  LIFS 1030, OCES 1010

  Description

  The course introduces students without a science background to the general concepts of environment, natural resources, and sustainable development. Topics include pressing global, regional and local environmental issues; renewable and non-renewable energy; life-supporting systems of our planet and its biodiversity; atmosphere, air pollution and global climate change; water resources and pollution; ocean plastics and solid waste management; environmental health and toxicology. Throughout the course, students will gain a sufficient background and a better understanding of the root causes of key environmental issues. They will also become more aware of their role, as individuals, in environmental protection and sustainable development.
• CORE 1200

  Engineering Team Design Experience

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ENGG 1200

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  The Engineering Team Design Experience course allows students to explore various areas of engineering in order to design and build a remote controlled device or vehicle, culminating in the final competition before the end of the term. Students will use these specific project requirements as an opportunity to explore activities in which managers/engineers of various disciplines are involved. Specifically, they will build a device or vehicle that has motors and propellers for propulsion and control, and is controlled remotely using an Android device. Students in this course will be divided into design teams with a common goal: construct their project artifact. Each team will then undergo half-a-term training on construction, mobile phone programming and hardware communication. Team members work together to obtain the skills needed to design their project. Finally, the teams compile an project and contest other teams in a competition.
• CORE 1201

  Design Thinking for Health Innovation

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ENGG 1300

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [EXP] Experiential learning

  Description

  A project‐based, experiential course that exposes students to the design thinking process for health innovation to address the real‐world unmet needs in the society. The goal of this course is to develop students’ communication, interpersonal, teamwork, analytical, design and project management skills through a multi‐disciplinary, team‐based design experience. The design thinking process modules: empathize, define, ideate, prototype and test, will be introduced and the students will learn experientially by applying these process modules to solve the health unmet needs they observe in real life. The students are required to report their progress throughout the semester. At the end of the course, they will showcase their prototype in a roadshow and submit their project report and reflection on their design journey. It is a common core course for students from different schools who have no background in design thinking or are looking for practical experience in design thinking.
• CORE 1202

  Engineering Solutions to Grand Challenges of the 21st Century

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ENGG 1110

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Throughout human history, engineering has driven the advance of civilization. In the past century engineering has recorded its greatest accomplishments, but for all these accomplishments the century ahead poses formidable problems sustaining civilization advancement. This course will broaden and raise student's awareness of challenges faced by coming generations such as climate change, clean water and healthcare. Students will work in small groups in a collaborative learning environment to explore in details and in multiple dimensions the key issues around selected major challenges with experts in the areas. Suggested and proposed engineering solutions based on advances in science and technology will be explored and discussed. Students will be encouraged to develop and present their own innovative engineering approaches to address these major challenges.
• CORE 1203

  Information Technology Revolution: Past, Present and Future

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ENGG 1150

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course introduces the basic concepts in information technology and explores the many applications of information technology in our daily life from consumer electronics to internet to various sectors including medicine, business, and social networking, etc. Key technology breakthroughs throughout the development of information technology and its impact to various aspect of our society will be studied. These include the invention of the 1st transistor, concept of computing machine, representation of information in digital formats, miniaturization via Very-Large-Scale Integration (VLSI) technology, computer systems and software, electronic communications from telephony and mobile phones over the telecom network to email, instant messaging and video skype over the internet, protection of information, and emerging applications including social networking, big data, and autonomous and intelligent systems. The focus is to identify the key technological advances in information Technology and understand how these advances led to revolutionary changes in our life and society.
• CORE 1212

  Introduction to Food Science and Technology

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  CENG 1800

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course aims to provide students with fundamental knowledge of food science (chemistry, nutrition, microbiology, etc.) and safety issues for daily consumption, and preliminary perspective for further exploration on food processing technologies. This course also emphasizes critical thinking skills, helps students to tell the truth/myth of healthy products, food additives, and genetically modified foods, and make a wise judgement for food consumption.
• CORE 1223

  Climate Change, Big History and Sustainability

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  CIVL 1170, ENVR 1170

  Description

  Big History as an emerging interdisciplinary framework, provides a long-term perspective to see the world through reconstructing the history from the big bang all the way to the present. In such a longer time scale, overview of stars, planetary and species evolution, as well as concepts in climate change and how it is related to sustainability of the planet’s environment for its current inhabitants, including humanity, will be discussed. The physical science basis, impacts, risk, mitigation and adaptation measures of climate change will also be investigated (including technical and social solutions). For local and regional vulnerabilities, such as extreme weather events, sea levels rise, storm surge and coastal flooding, will be covered. The significance of collective learning under the big history framework, both as a driver for our exponentially growing impacts, as well as for better solutions, will be highlighted.
• CORE 1231

  Exploring Multimedia and Internet Computing

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  COMP 1001

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  ISOM 2010, any COMP courses of 2000-level or above

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  The course introduces the organization and basic working mechanism of a computer system, including the development of the trend of modern computer system. It covers the fundamentals of computer hardware design and software application development. The course emphasizes the application of the state-of-the-art software tools to solve problems and present solutions via a range of skills related to multimedia and internet computing tools such as internet, e-mail, WWW, webpage design, computer animation, spread sheet charts/figures, presentations with graphics and animations, etc. The course also covers business, accessibility, and relevant security issues in the use of computers and Internet.
• CORE 1232

  Exploring and Visualizing Data

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  COMP 1942

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  COMP 4331, ISOM 3360, RMBI 4310

  Description

  This course teaches concepts and tools for exploring and visualizing data. There are a lot of real-life decision-making problems (e.g., business, logistics, economics, marketing, finance, resource management, forecasting and engineering) which can be formulated using some existing data analysis models. Existing computer science tools such as Microsoft Excel can help us to model and solve these problems easily, and to visualize the solutions.
• CORE 1233

  Creative Sound Design

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  COMP 1943

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [EXP] Experiential learning

  Description

  This experiential project course will provide hands-on experiences in creating music videos and movie/game trailers by creatively remixing music, recutting video, and applying effects. It will provide a creative outlet where students can apply their problem-solving skills in a deep and engaging way to create music remixes, mashups, character videos, and reimagined video stories. It will also give students a chance to work with emerging video technologies. Whether students have music and video editing background or not, this course will provide them a chance to create like a sound designer, video editor, and director. For each of their music video creations, students will also create a behind the-scenes commentary video that describes what they did and how they did it. They will share their creations and commentaries in class, and learn from and be inspired by one another.
• CORE 1234

  Artificial Intelligence Ethics

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  COMP 4901M, COMP 1944

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Artificial intelligence (AI) is disrupting every sphere of our work and lives, bringing unprecedented risks to society. This introductory course surveys the explosive area of AI ethics, illuminating relevant AI concepts with no prior background needed. Fake news bots. AI driven social media displacing traditional journalism. Drone warfare. Elimination of traditional jobs. Privacy‐violating advertising. Monopolistic network effects. Biased AI decision/recognition algorithms. Deepfakes. Autonomous vehicles. Automated hedge fund trading. No area remains untouched. Policy think tanks, governments, and tech companies around the world have started paying serious attention to AI ethics. How will human civilization survive the rise of AI? What are the new rules? What are the ethical frameworks needed to avoid extinction? What are engineers’ and entrepreneurs’ ethical responsibilities?
• CORE 1240

  Electronic and Information Technology

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ELEC 1010

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This general-education course introduces the basics of electronic and information technology and their applications to daily-life consumer electronics and communication devices. Contents include the representation of signals in the time and frequency domains; digitization of information; coding for data compression and error protection; transmission of signals; cellular mobile phones and wireless communications; and the Internet. It is expected that through studying these technologies and how they address the problems encountered in the information technology area, students will also grasp the skills in solving problems with engineering approach and spirit and appreciate how these technologies impact the society.
• CORE 1251

  Optimizing Decisions for Personal and Business Development

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  CIVL 2170, IEDA 3010, ISOM 3710

  Description

  This course introduces basic analytical tools that can be used to optimize decisions for personal and business development. Students will learn different tools for scenarios encountered by individuals and companies in real life. For example, how to make decisions when one has limited resources? How to make intelligent decisions for now when one needs to make subsequent decisions later? How to make smart decisions when interacting with other people whose decisions also affect the final outcomes? How to gain insight from data by conducting basic data analytics?
• CORE 1270

  Buildings for Contemporary Living

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  MECH 1905

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course introduces the applications of modern mechanical engineering technologies to buildings systems and how they relate to our livings. A wise design of building systems offers high convenience to the occupants. Building systems, such as structural design, water supply, safety and air conditioning are of high importance to maintain a satisfying temperature, humidity, lighting and indoor air quality for comfortable living and efficient working. The course introduces the latest trend of building design, such as intelligent, and green buildings, micro sensors, Internet of Things (IoTs), VR/AR and metaverse and AI and how to maintain the sustainability and efficiency of the whole building in terms of building duration, energy and operation. The aim of the course is to provide students fundamental understanding and latest case studies on the current technologies for attaining contemporary living, and the difficulties we are facing that we may be ready for future challenges.
• CORE 1310

  Accounting, Business & Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ACCT 1010

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  ACCT 2010

  Description

  Overview of accounting in business and social contexts; use of accounting information for accountability and decision-making in companies, non-profit organizations, and government; major elements of accounting, including assets, liabilities, revenues and expenses; discharge of accountability by companies through corporate social and environmental reports. The aim of this course is to make students aware of how accounting could be applicable to fundamental business transactions and ways to evaluate how businesses are operated.
• CORE 1330

  Introduction to Financial Markets and Institutions

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  FINA 1303

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  FINA 3103

  Description

  A broad introduction to financial institutions and financial markets, providing students with an understanding of how financial systems work, the functions of various financial institutions and the role of financial regulation.
• CORE 1340

  Technology and Innovation: Social and Business Perspectives

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ISOM 1380

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course describes the development of technology and innovation from social and business perspectives. It covers the technology side of innovations, how an invention can be developed into a successful commercial product, the role of innovation in society and how innovations are created from a socioeconomic perspective. It highlights that successful development and adoption of innovative products relies not only on the technology itself but also a complex process that is subject to the impact of cultural, political, economic and managerial factors.
• CORE 1341

  Social Media: Collective Intelligence & Creativity

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ISOM 1090

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Web technology is now connecting a diversity of people and ideas and encouraging cooperation and collaboration. However, the nascent proliferation of fake news is beginning to have a corrosive effect on the open and peer-to-peer collaborations that are the underpinning of Web 2.0. The aim of the course is to make students aware of the tug of war between beneficial and harmful effects of this social media phenomenon.
• CORE 1343

  Fundamentals of E-Commerce: Business, Technology, and the Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ISOM 2310

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  The course covers important topics related to e-commerce including unique features of e-commerce technology, the history and background of the Internet, the evolution of e-commerce from its early years to today, key components of e-commerce business models, major trends of business-to-business, business-to-consumer, and consumer-to-consumer services, the use of various techniques such as search engine analytics, online social networks, and location-based technologies, as well as the ethical, social, and political issues related to e-commerce. Various prominent e-commerce models and development will also be covered in the course.
• CORE 1360

  Marketing and Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  MARK 1220

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course will challenge the dynamics of marketing and the role it now plays within a social, sustainable and/or ethical context, in industries like Fashion, Food, Cigarettes and Alcohol, Social Media, NFT’s, E-Sports and Recycling. We explore and analyze current social issues affecting marketing decisions within the context of business strategy. This course aims to help students understand the dynamics of marketing decision-making and the impact these decisions have on society's well-being/"bad-being". Students should be able to: (i) appreciate the variety of social, political and economic forces affecting marketing organizations at the global and local level; (ii) identify/analyze current public issues in the interplay between marketing and society, such as advertising to children, junk food, and climate change; (iii) critically evaluate the debates around the ethical responsibilities of marketers; (iv) apply the above learning to real world cases. Students will gain the ability to apply basic theoretical and analytical frameworks to real world marketing problems and cases and reflect on their own behavior and experiences as consumers.
• CORE 1361

  Consumerism and Happiness

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  We live in an age where consumption seems to be increasing without bounds, resulting in a consumeristic lifestyle. However, the question on whether increasing consumption results in happiness has remained very relevant with the passage of time. This course will examine the historical, cultural, psychological, religious, and economic perspectives on consumerism and the role of marketing in influencing a person’s self-identity and consumption attitudes. It will also examine how consumerism affects things that are important to many-- including personal finances, time with family and friends, the environment, and economic growth. The course will also look at how business, government and non-governmental organizations attempt to manage consumerism in their policies and strategies.
• CORE 1371

  Introduction to Management

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  MGMT 1110

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course provides students with a systematic approach to acquiring a solid foundation in the principles and current practices of management. The focus of the course is about the interaction between individuals (managers) and the organization. We will explore what managers do through discussion of the four fundamental functions of managers, namely planning, organizing, leading and controlling. Topics include: evolution of management theories, environmental influences on management, organizational culture, strategic management, organizational design, change management, organizational control and human resources management.
• CORE 1373

  Traps and Pitfalls in Judgment and Decision Making

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  MGMT 1130

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Decision making is a central human activity, but how good are we at it? Scientific evidence suggests that our decisions are often biased and flawed, resulting in disappointing or even disastrous outcomes. This course draws upon contemporary research in psychology and other social sciences to better understand how it is that people make decisions, and why those decisions are often made badly. The course will emphasize a theoretical understanding of human decision making, as well as a comprehension of the real world implications of our mistakes both for us and for our society, and what, if anything, can be done about it.
• CORE 1401

  Intensive English Language for University Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1002, LANG 1003, Level 3 or above in HKDSE English Language

  Description

  This is an intensive English language course for students in their first year of study who need language enhancement and proficiency training to build a strong foundation in English. Students will develop the language skills necessary to communicate effectively and complete academic tasks in an English-medium university. They will also build skills and habits for self-directed learning at university. The content of this course focuses on developing students’ language foundation, and tasks and activities are designed so that they can receive enhanced teacher support and feedback.
• CORE 1402

  English Language for University Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  (Level 3 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above level 3) OR (Level 4 in HKDSE English Language) OR (Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with some papers but not all at or above level 4) OR (Overall bandscore of 6.0 in IELTS) OR (Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with some but not all subscores at or above 6.0) OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1002, LANG 1003

  Description

  This course aims for students in their first year of study and will develop students’ spoken and written language proficiency. The course also introduces academic literacy skills common to all disciplines. Students will learn to evaluate others’ opinions, develop strong arguments and communicate those arguments effectively in written and spoken English. In addition to traditional academic writing, the course includes elements of academic communication that go beyond the text level to incorporate academic communication that includes text and audio. They will also build skills and habits for self-directed learning at university.
• CORE 1403

  Academic English for University Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR Level 5 in HKDSE English Language with all papers at or above level 4 OR Overall bandscore of 6.5 in IELTS with all subscores at or above 6.0 OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1003

  Description

  This course emphasises the development of academic literacy skills, in addition to developing students’ language proficiency.Students will learn how to find and evaluate sources for academic tasks and will further develop their abilities to be critical in reading and writing, to synthesise ideas and to develop coherent arguments. Collaboration and leadership skills will also be emphasised to further develop skills and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.
• CORE 1404

  Advanced Academic English for University Studies

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 5* or above in HKDSE English Language OR Overall bandscore of 7.0 or above in IELTS OR equivalence of the above

  Exclusion(s)

  LANG 1002, LANG 1003

  Description

  This course puts a strong emphasis on developing university-level academic literacy and communication competence in writing, speaking, and multimodal contexts. The course introduces students to research skills using university library resources for finding and evaluating sources for academic writing and speaking tasks. It expects students to be critical readers and writers, synthesizing ideas when developing a coherent argument. The course also aims to develop students’ competence in communicating effectively in an academic community, developing the ability to collaborate both as a member of a group and assuming responsibility as a discussion facilitator in the context of student-led seminars. Throughout the course, students are expected to transfer and adapt their knowledge, attitudes and habits for autonomous lifelong learning.
• CORE 1405

  Mediated Me: An Introduction to Digital Literacy

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  LANG 1004

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This introductory course will help students explore the impact of digital media texts (such as podcasts, memes, and social media like YouTube) on academic, professional and social communication practices. The course will enable students to be: critical of current digital communication practices; reflective of their communication and participation through digital media; aware of how digital communication can impact language delivery; and reflective of their English language development. To achieve this, the course guides students in developing basic knowledge of digital literacy theories and practices and to produce their own digital media texts for English communicative purposes. Students will undertake authentic tasks related to their academic and future careers that enables them to achieve the necessary communication skills in a digital world.
• CORE 1411

  Elementary Putonghua for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1412, CORE 1413, CORE 1415, CORE 1416, CORE 1421, CORE 1422, CORE 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for less than 50 tuition hours. It aims to equip the students with listening and speaking skills for communicating in Putonghua for daily and social purposes through a range of learning activities. After successfully completing the course, students will have developed basic pronunciation ability in Putonghua, and fundamental listening and speaking skills necessary for daily communication.
• CORE 1412

  Intermediate Putonghua for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1413, CORE 1416, CORE 1421, CORE 1422, CORE 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for up to 150 tuition hours. It prepares students for an intermediate-level understanding of spoken Chinese and equip them with a strong communicative competence in using Chinese in social and professional situations. After successfully completing the course, students’ listening and speaking skills will be enhanced, and they will be able to participate in complete, coherent and appropriate conversations on topics relating to daily life, study and work.
• CORE 1413

  Advanced Putonghua for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1416, CORE 1421, CORE 1422, CORE 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for up to 300 tuition hours. It prepares students for an advanced-level understanding of spoken Chinese and to equip them with a strong communicative competence in using Chinese in social and professional situations. After successfully completing the course, their listening and speaking skills will be enhanced, and they will be able to handle a wide range of discourse with nearly full linguistic control and communicate effectively on complex topics relating to life, study and work.
• CORE 1414

  Elementary Reading and Writing for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1412, CORE 1413, CORE 1415, CORE 1416, CORE 1421, CORE 1422, CORE 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for non-Chinese language background students who have learned Chinese for less than 50 tuition hours.It aims to equip students with Chinese reading and writing skills for daily and social purposes through a range of familiar topics. After successfully completing the course, students will have acquired a basic knowledge of Chinese characters, be able to identify information from simple passages,and write basic sentences to introduce themselves and describe their daily lives.
• CORE 1415

  Intermediate Reading and Writing for Non-Chinese Language Background Students

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1412, CORE 1413, CORE 1416, CORE 1421, CORE 1422, CORE 1423, LANG 1117, LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is designed for students with non-Chinese language background who have learned Chinese for less than 100 tuition hours. It aims to enhance students’ ability to recognize and write Chinese characters, and to help develop their understanding of written Chinese and writing competence in using Chinese in daily life and social situations. After successfully completing the course, they will be able to recognize and write commonly used Chinese characters, understand narrative, expository and basic argumentative texts, and write short passages for daily life and social purposes.
• CORE 1416

  Effective Chinese Communication

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  LANG 1113

  Prerequisite(s)

  Level 3 in HKDSE Chinese

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese
  [PU] Putonghua

  Description

  This course seeks to enhance the market competitiveness of HKUST graduates by making them effective users of spoken Putonghua and Standard Written Chinese in meeting communicative needs in academic, social and professional contexts. The course materials and activities help students acquire fluency and accuracy in the use of Chinese by engaging them in authentic communication tasks based on real-life situations and needs. Students’ mastery of Putonghua phonology and Chinese syntax and lexis will also be enhanced through in-class teaching and outside class practice.
• CORE 1421

  Chinese Communication in the Digital Era

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1411, CORE 1412, CORE 1413, CORE 1414, CORE 1415, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Description

  This course targets all students who have a background in Chinese, and with a strong interest in the use of Chinese in digital media. The focus of this course is to lead students to explore the characteristics of using Chinese in digital media for social, professional and academic communication purposes, and to develop their Putonghua speaking and Standard Chinese writing abilities through digital media platforms. The emphasis is on using Chinese to talk about digital media. Students can also have a deeper understanding of the current situation and developmental direction of Chinese digital media in the digital age, and be able to discuss topics in this field in Chinese.
• CORE 1422

  Chinese for Workplace Applications

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1411, CORE 1412, CORE 1413, CORE 1414, CORE 1415, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Description

  This course is for students who have a background in Chinese. It aims to enhance their Chinese communication skills and understanding of how language plays a crucial role in various workplace contexts including meetings, branding, customer interactions, change and crisis management, and in intercultural contexts. Students will learn how to use and choose communicative strategies and modes appropriate to the purpose, audience and contexts. Students will acquire diverse language skills through interactive tasks, case analyses, simulated practices, and experiential learning.
• CORE 1423

  Enhanced Chinese Communication

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  LANG 1118

  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1411, CORE 1412, CORE 1413, CORE 1414, CORE 1415, LANG 1120 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1121 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1122 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1123 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1124 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1125 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1126 (prior to 2022-23), LANG 1127 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course seeks to enhance the Putonghua speaking and Chinese writing abilities of students who have typically undergone schooling in a Chinese language community. Learning tasks and activities on this course further challenges students to aim at very high levels in terms of precision of expression in writing and expressiveness and persuasiveness in speaking. The learning experience will also sharpen the students’ awareness of style and tone and context of situation.
• CORE 1501

  Introduction to Language

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1010

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  An examination of fundamental concepts and principles in the scientific analysis of human language, especially concerning speech sounds, syntax, meaning, language acquisition, language processing, sociolinguistics and history of languages. Students who have taken an introductory course in linguistics in universities should not enroll in this course.
• CORE 1503

  Structure of Chinese

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1030

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course introduces basic concepts in linguistics and how these concepts are used to describe and analyze the structure of the Chinese language, with emphasis on sounds and grammar. Moreover, similarities and differences among major Chinese dialects, especially those between Cantonese and Mandarin, will be highlighted. Characteristics of the non-Han languages spoken in the neighboring areas will also be compared with those of the Chinese dialects in order to highlight the bi-directional influences between the two groups.
• CORE 1504

  Introduction to Mandarin Chinese Grammar

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1060

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course introduces students to basic concepts in Mandarin Chinese grammar and fundamental techniques of grammatical analysis. Differences between Chinese and English as well as between Mandarin and Cantonese will also be highlighted. Topics include word structure and sentence structure of Mandarin Chinese, and characteristics of Chinese grammar, etc.
• CORE 1522

  History of P. R. China's Diplomacy, 1949-1989

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1430

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course will introduce to students the diplomatic history of the People's Republic of China (PRC) from 1949 to 1989, focusing on Sino-USSR and Sino-U.S. relations in the context of the Cold War. Key events and leading figures will be covered, newly declassified archival materials will be presented, and critical examination and rethinking of PRC history will be introduced for discussion.
• CORE 1523

  Modern East Asia

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1520

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  MGCS 5004

  Description

  This course is a survey of the history of political, social, economic, and cultural changes in East Asia (mainly China and Japan, and to some extent, Korea) from the 1800s to the 1950s. In the past two centuries, the classical civilizations of East Asia met new challenges: the disintegration of old political systems, the growth of social tensions, and the arrival of an aggressive and expanding West. This course will study the internal and external tensions that undermined the traditional orders, compelling China, Japan, and Korea to seek new political and social reforms. Special attention will be given to the revolutionary changes in society, thought, culture, and the rise of a new political order in twentieth-century China, Japan, and Korea.
• CORE 1554

  Marriage, Family and Kinship in Cross-cultural Perspectives

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1639

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course examines the diverse cultural meanings and structures of kinship relations and organizations. Different anthropological approaches in analyzing the structures and practices of marriage, family and kinship will be examined.
• CORE 1571

  The Art of Thinking in the Hong Kong Context

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1710

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1572, HUMA 1720

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course aims to provide a basic introduction to the art of thinking. The focus of this course is on methodology. Students will be equipped with critical tools for the analysis of arguments. Moreover, special attention will be given to the application of such tools to the practical affairs of everyday life.
• CORE 1572

  Logic

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1720

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  CORE 1571, HUMA 1710

  Description

  This course is designed to provide the students with the basic knowledge of logic, so that they can apply logical techniques to analyze various problems of reasoning in ordinary language and to examine the fallacies of thinking in daily life. The course includes topics such as the basic concepts of logic, logic and language, fallacies and definitions, sentential logic, and syllogism.
• CORE 1574

  History of Chinese Philosophy

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1811

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  HUMA 1810

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course aims at a historical survey of the developments of Chinese philosophy. Through an introduction to the great Chinese thinkers (like Confucius and Mo Zi), the main schools of thought to which they belong (like Confucianism and Mohism), their central theories (like humanity and universal love), and some other important philosophical concepts and issues, students will be guided to explore the evolution of these philosophies against the background of Chinese history and civilization.
• CORE 1576

  Introduction to Moral Philosophy

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1920

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This introductory course examines various beliefs and questions underlying our moral lives. These include the relation between morality and religion, subjectivism, relativism, self-interest, the rights and wrongs of euthanasia, etc. Also, certain ethical theories claim to help us make the right moral decisions, e.g. utilitarianism. This course is a systematic exploration of such beliefs and theories, emphasizing critical thinking and reasonable justification.
• CORE 1601

  Chinese Women on Screen

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course approaches Chinese women as both historical and fictional figures to unravel the complicated relationship between history and visual representation. Each week revolves around a special topic and a film about Chinese women located in a specific socio-historical period. This course is in chronological order, beginning from Republican women to contemporary female immigrants in the age of globalization. The changing images of women on screen went hand in hand with major cinematic movements in history, including the left turn in the 1930s, the rise of animation, socialist filmmaking, model opera film, underground/independent filmmaking, and the cinematic globalization. The purpose of this course is to build a foundation for students from different academic backgrounds who may have little or no knowledge of Chinese culture and history. Proficiency in Chinese is a plus but not required because all reading materials and class discussion are in English.
• CORE 1602

  Popular Culture of East Asia

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1231

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course provides an overview of the various forms of popular culture in East Asia and focuses on the question of how the rise of East Asian popular culture reflects the desire for "modernity" and "modernization" in each East Asian country and affects the interactions among them. Numerous popular cultural forms - music, film, TV drama, manga/anime, novels, entertainment, food, fashion and design - in Japan, Korea, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan will be examined. The increasing global fascination of or craze for East Asian popular culture and how such East Asian "soft power" has inspired and transformed the global aesthetics and popular imagination or understanding of East Asia will also be discussed.
• CORE 1603

  World Literature and Film

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1301

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course explores the complex interplay between literature and cinema. Selected novels, short stories and plays are analyzed in relation to their cinematic adaptations to gain an understanding of the masterpieces of world literature, and the possibilities and challenges involved in their cinematic manifestations.
• CORE 1631

  Music of the World

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1100

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course surveys various folk and traditional musics of the non-Western world using an ethnomusicological perspective which involves studying how people make, perform and consume music in their respective cultural contexts. Music cultures will be discussed individually in turn, while maintaining a cross-cultural or cross-regional perspective so as to discern underlying themes and processes common to many of them as well as differences and points of divergence that make each one unique.
• CORE 1632

  Enjoyment of Classical Music

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1102

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  From the power and beauty of the orchestra to masterpieces of the church and concert hall, students will gain an in-depth appreciation for the history and fundamentals of Western classical music. The listening and analytical skills demonstrated will bring about a deeper understanding of music as an art form. Previous musical training, albeit helpful, is not required.
• CORE 1651

  Introduction to Chinese Art

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1660

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course is a chronological and thematic survey of Chinese visual art from the Neolithic period to modern times. Topics introduced include ancient Chinese bronze and jade, pottery and ceramics, Buddhist art and sculpture, calligraphy and seal carving, garden and architecture.
• CORE 1660

  Exploration of Drawing

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1150

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Drawing is a foundational form of communication extending from prehistoric times to the work of modern-day artists and designers. The creative use of lines, shapes, and textures is both a form of expression and a tool to sharpen one’s thinking and message. In this course, students will explore various types of techniques, mediums, styles, and materials, and learn concepts and history relevant to the fine arts and related industry.
• CORE 1661

  Cantonese Opera in Hong Kong Culture

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1671

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese
  [EN] Taught in Eng/Chin subject to diff. offerings

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The “culture” of a community encompasses the social and personal behaviour, language and dialects, visual and performing arts, economic activities and the ideas, beliefs, and customs of its people. As a traditional genre of performing arts unique to Hong Kong, Cantonese opera has a long history of development and is entwined to arguably all such aspects of Hong Kong culture. Set within the socio‐cultural context of Hong Kong, this course explores the genre in terms of its course of development, repertory, plots, script structure, performing techniques such as singing, acting, reciting and fencing, troupe organisation, training of artists, performing venues including theatre and the bamboo stage, and its marketing strategies, aiming at unfolding to the students how an art form is appreciated through both the aesthetical and functional perspectives. The course will be offered either in Cantonese or English subject to different offerings. Students are advised to check the medium of instruction/materials before class enrollment.
• CORE 1662

  Studio Arts Workshops: Cantonese Opera

  1 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1672

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Corequisite(s)

  CORE 1661, HUMA 1671

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese
  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course will allow students enrolled to CORE 1661 Cantonese Opera in Hong Kong Culture to have hands-on experience of Cantonese Opera. Students will learn the four basic performance skills of Cantonese opera, namely, singing, reciting, acting and fencing. Graded DI/PA/F.
• CORE 1666

  Photography

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1154

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course provides an overview of the various forms of Photography, explores the relationship between visual communication and art. The course will examine the collaborative process between light and graphic, concepts and skills. The increasing influences of images and trends from visual media will also be discussed.
• CORE 1667

  Video Art

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1155

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Video Art is an art form combined varies medium, moving images, sound, and multimedia elements. This special art form involves experimentation, concept implementation and editing. In the course, we will explore varies camera skills, and explore styles and concept. Through explorations and practices to achieve certain features and concepts of video art.
• CORE 1668

  Art and Digital Culture

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1673

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course will explore how digital technologies are transforming art production and presentation. From early photography to virtual reality, it will examine art forms at the turn of the mechanical age (e.g. photography, film) as well as artistic practices in the digital age such as virtual reality, data visualization, artificial intelligence, and NFT (Non-fungible token). Situating art and digital culture within a cross-disciplinary context, the course also considers the following key issues: how do digital technologies change our art, culture, and contemporary life? How does art in the digital age define key issues in the digital world such as privacy, copyright, and identity? How can we create art through interdisciplinary practice? Students will learn to analyze new forms of art and related technologies, and to discuss the key issues of the body, identity, and surveillance in the digital age.
• CORE 1669

  Exploration of Chinese Calligraphy

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 1156

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Chinese Calligraphy is one of the most unique traditional art forms in Asia. This course will develop students' appreciation of various types of Chinese Calligraphy. The course provides practical writing workshops which can encourage students’ interest and experience the progress; deepen students’ understanding basic calligraphic skill and generate visual creativity. It prepares students having a better overview of Chinese culture.
• CORE 1710

  Making Sense of Government and Politics

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in LANG 1401 OR LANG 1402 OR LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  SOSC 1300

  Description

  This course introduces students to the fundamentals of government and politics. The first part of the course examines political theory which seeks to evaluate and justify political issues through the study of concepts and ideologies. The second part of the course examines comparative politics which seeks to understand and explain political phenomena through the study of actors, institutions, and their dynamics. Students will benefit with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitude for making sense of various matters related to government and politics in the real world.
• CORE 1720

  Poverty

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 1420

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course aims to make students gain familiarity with poverty issues including poverty measurement, underlying causes of poverty, the impact of poverty on society and government programs and policies that address poverty. We will illustrate principles with real-world applications. Though the course discusses poverty in a broad context of developing and developed countries, an extra emphasis will be put on poverty related issues in Hong Kong and mainland China.
• CORE 1730

  China: Development and Transformations

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  SOSC 1350

  Description

  This course introduces students to the study of contemporary China from the perspective of social science. It critically examines the major transformations, government and politics, economic change, social change, and cultural change of contemporary China since 1949. Students will benefit with the knowledge of the major developments of contemporary China as well as the skills for analyzing the on-going social and economic change in China.
• CORE 1740

  Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 1400

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  The Greater Bay Area (GBA) has become the world’s largest urban area. In less than forty years the region transformed from a backwater to an engine of advanced manufacturing and services. It has lifted millions of people out of poverty, provided homes and communities, and become a node in a global network of megacity regions responsible for much of the world’s economic dynamism. Yet, aspirations are higher. Government, businesses, and others want to harness the region’s synergies to compete with other highly developed bay areas. Becoming an innovative high quality living region is the goal. To understand the region’s successes and challenges, the course examines the GBA’s evolution through the agglomeration processes of external economies, governance and urbanization. These processes led the GBA’s development and will determine its future - in terms of continued economic development and more importantly in terms of the wellbeing of the GBA’s people.
• CORE 1770

  International Law

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 1270

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Public international law (IL) is based on rules for relations among states (countries), as well as the human rights of people. It covers almost every aspect of human activity and is mainly studied by analyzing legal cases and international agreements (treaties). The topics in an introductory IL course are the same everywhere in the world. The cases used are mostly the “classics” that established the principles of IL. Most topics involve current events of world-wide importance.
• CORE 1780

  Population and Development in China

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 1780

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course aims to provide comprehensive understanding of population growth, distribution, major demographic processes, and their relationship with economic development. Special attention is given to the demographic trends and policies in China in the context of the nation’s socioeconomic development.
• CORE 1810

  Understanding Our Economy

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in LANG 1401 OR LANG 1402 OR LANG 1403 OR LANG 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  ECON 2123, ECON 3123, SOSC 1440

  Description

  This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of economics, in particular the determination of macroeconomic variables – output, employment, and prices – and the policy tools (and choices) used to (try to) achieve particular outcomes, over different time horizons. Special attention is being paid to current economic events in Hong Kong and globally.
• CORE 1840

  Government, Law and Society in China

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 1840

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course introduces to students the basic knowledge about the operation of the Chinese legal system or legal institutions. It examines how laws are used in the social, economic, and political activities of the Chinese people. The course focuses not on the Chinese laws per se but on how laws are used in people’s daily lives. Examples or cases will be used extensively in the course to illustrate the topics included. Major topics discussed in the course include the interactions between legal institutions and the party‐state (i.e., the party and the government), the behavior of legal workers (e.g., judges, police officers), citizens’ use of civil lawsuits and administrative litigation, and some important mechanisms through which citizens or other social actors seek justice in China.
• CORE 1850

  Exploring Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  SOSC 1850

  Description

  This course will help students explore various aspects of social life through the lens of sociology. It looks at human behavior as the product of groups, institutions and culture. In order to master this sociological outlook, the course shall examine a number of topics central to our lives from the point of view of sociological perspectives and methods. These topics will include: culture, deviance, inequality, religion, education, gender, the family, and power and politics.
• CORE 1860

  Population and Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 1860

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This blended learning course introduces the main measures and concepts in the field of international population studies, contemporary issues concerning the interrelationships between population and social and economic development, and examples of applications of a knowledge of population to wider social concerns, and shows how they relate to issues of concern in research, planning and policy development.
• CORE 1862

  Contemporary Hong Kong Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 1662

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  SOSC 1661

  Mode of Delivery

  [SPO] Self-paced online delivery

  Description

  A sociologically informed examination of Hong Kong society. Topics include social change, political, economic and gender inequalities, the movement for democracy, popular culture, identity, intimacy, and family life.
• CORE 1901

  Cognitive Foundations of University Education: Critical Thinking and Data Literacy

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  IDPO 1020

  Description

  This course provides an introduction to critical thinking and data literacy. Students will be equipped with critical tools to analyse problems of reasoning, evaluate the truthfulness of evidence, examine the fallacies of thinking, as well as the ability to construct valid arguments and reasonable solutions for their personal and professional life.
• CORE 1905

  Behavioral Foundations of University Education: Habits, Mindsets, and Wellness

  3 Credit(s)
  Exclusion(s)

  IDPO 1010

  Description

  This course will help students adapt to university life through advising, sharing and discussion, and applying the science of well‐being to enhance their personal and interpersonal development. It also aims to foster their self‐understanding and confidence as young adults who can fully enjoy their university education and career thereafter. The course has 3 components: Lectures and Seminars, Self‐Directed Experience, and Advising and Community Meetings. Lectures and Seminars will orientate students to their respective Schools/IPO, provide academic advice and equip them with the scientific bases of well‐being. Self‐Directed Experience will provide opportunities to develop mindsets and habits for students’ physical and social‐emotional wellness and personal enrichment. In Advising and Community Meetings, students will bring knowledge and skills together through reflection and discussion with peers and School/IPO advisors. Topics such as learning and time management skills, purpose of university education, and planning for personal and professional development will be covered. Graded PP, P or F.
• CORE 1940

  Introduction to Sustainability

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  SUST 1000

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This course provides students with a holistic, interdisciplinary, evidence-based understanding of the challenge of ensuring the sustainability of humanity on a planet with limited natural and social capacities. The course introduces frameworks, approaches and key trade-offs underpinning efforts to deal with existing and emerging global issues, and considers how these problems relate to our own lifestyles.
• CORE 1941

  Climate Change Impacts and Extreme Weather Events

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ENVR 1150

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  As the extreme weather events emerge as one of the most prominent global risks, climate change and the accompanying natural disasters are no longer a side agenda, but play a critical role in maintaining sustainable societies and economies. This course aims to inspire students to take a broader perspective on environmental issues, in addition to advancing the scientific knowledge of climate change and extreme weather. To effectively achieve this purpose, the course introduces the case studies that emphasize the huge implications of extreme events (e.g. drought, flood, heat waves, typhoon) and their linkage with the warming due to greenhouse gases. This course also assesses the potential impacts of climate changes and extremes on social, economic and environmental sustainability through a multidisciplinary approach.
• CORE 1943

  The Smart Consumer - Uncovering the Hidden Story behind the Product Label

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ENVR 1080

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [EXP] Experiential learning

  Description

  The choices we make in daily life - the food we eat, the clothes we wear, the products and services we use - define our lifestyle. With increasing pressure through climate change and resource constraints, many people intend to consume in a sustainable manner. But with vague “green promises,” complex ingredient lists, and opaque production processes, we often do not know what is inside the products we use and how they were made. This course will investigate everyday products and explore features that make them (un)sustainable by applying a product life-cycle approach. It will also provide insights into the factors that influence our consumption decisions and how consumer behavior can be changed. Students get the opportunity (through small exercises, activities, and discussions) to investigate about consumption in Hong Kong and explore how companies and governments can help individual consumers to make smarter, more sustainable consumption choices.
• CORE 2261

  What is Design and Why Design?

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ISDN 2000

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course introduces what design is and why it is valued. Design is the purposeful act of creative problem solving. Students learn about fundamental design theories, principles, and methods through a project-based learning approach. Students then experience several stages of a creative design process. The process begins by asking students to identify real-world problems through social, business, scientific, and technological perspectives. To add specificity, students will be able to describe the behaviors and needs of social interactions, observe demographic phenomena, assess business viability, and identify and understand technological changes and impacts, etc. After defining a problem statement, students will be guided to generate creative solutions using brainstorming tools and creative thinking skills. Selected solutions will be presented in form of prototypes and open for user feedback. This course emphasizes the appreciation of the role and significance of design for our society.
• CORE 2501

  Metaphors in English and Chinese

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2010

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  A comprehensive study of metaphors in English and Chinese, not only as a rhetorical device, but also as an essential tool of our ordinary language and thought. The course encompasses a wide range of diverse topics such as literary metaphors, metaphors in everyday language (about time, life, change, quantity, love, anger, etc.), and metaphors in politics, mathematics, physics, artificial intelligence, and cyberspace. The approach is interdisciplinary and comparative, and most topics are to be discussed from a cross-linguistic and cross-cultural perspective. An ordinary reading knowledge of Chinese is required for enrollment.
• CORE 2502

  The Cantonese Language

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2031

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  Study of the Cantonese language, from the perspective of linguistics which emphasizes the scientific study of language. The course focuses on the sound and the grammatical systems of Cantonese. It also examines historical and socio-linguistic issues pertinent to the development of Cantonese in the context of Hong Kong. Students enrolling in this course are expected to have basic knowledge of Chinese.
• CORE 2521

  Late Imperial China

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2420

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  A comprehensive survey of Chinese history from the ninth down to the eighteenth century, with emphasis on developments in the economy and society, empire-building, and intellectual pursuits.
• CORE 2522

  China in the 20th Century

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2430

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  A study of modern Chinese history from the Revolution of 1911 to the reforms in the 1980s, examining the interplay of imperialism, democracy, nationalism, and socialism, which shaped China's struggle for survival in the 20th century and its emergence as a strong modern nation.
• CORE 2523

  20th-Century China in Documentary Films

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2440

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course presents the turbulent history of twentieth century China through documentary films. In addition to reading historical texts, students will study various films made by journalists and filmmakers of the time and in recent years. In the first half of the term, the course will cover major historical events from the 1911 revolution to 1989. In the second half, through closely studying documentary films the course will focus on several themes, including China's role in WWII, the Anti-Rightist Campaign, the Great Leap Forward, the Cultural Revolution, and the Tiananmen Incident in 1989. Some of the films are in English and some in Chinese with subtitles.
• CORE 2525

  History of Tea in East Asia

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2520

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course explores the history of tea in East Asia from its origins to the present day using an interdisciplinary approach. Topics covered include the development of tea culture throughout history, tea's role as a trade commodity, the dissemination and innovation in tea production technologies, and its recent re-imagining as a traditional product. The course will be a mix of lectures and discussions.
• CORE 2526

  Nazism and German Society, 1914-1945

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2588

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course surveys German history from 1914 to 1945, with a focus on the rise, rule, and destruction of National Socialism. Topics to be covered include the First World War, the Weimar Republic, the emergence of the National Socialist movement, consent and coercion in the Third Reich, the racial state, Hitler's leadership, the Second World War, and the Holocaust. In addition to mastering historical concepts and narratives, students will sharpen their abilities to read sources and write analytical essays.
• CORE 2529

  Unofficial China: Social History 1800s-1930s

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2640

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  A study of the key issues in the social history of late-Imperial and Modern China. Different aspects of ordinary people's life are highlighted in order to critically analyze the process of social change from an unofficial perspective. Topics include: violence in Chinese culture and society, conditions and situation of women, the problems of prostitution, opium smoking and gambling, workers and peasants in face of economic exploitation.
• CORE 2551

  Culture and Environment

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2621

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This introductory course aims to study the relationship between "culture" and the "environment" and the impacts of cultural mechanisms on resource management, population and health practices in different cultural settings. Some topics about human adaptive strategies, such as types of production and consumption in different societies related to horticulture, maritime, pastoralism and labor intensive agriculture will be discussed.
• CORE 2553

  Chinese Culture and Society in Anthropological Perspectives

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2632

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  MGCS 5031

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course is a survey of traditional and contemporary Chinese cultural practices in local communities based on anthropologists’ long-term first-hand fieldwork studies in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Mainland China. Basic anthropological concepts and theories about Chinese socio-cultural institutions will be examined. Major anthropological contributions to the understanding of the diversity and unity of Chinese cultures and societies will be explored.
• CORE 2554

  Cultural Diversity in China

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2635

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  MGCS 5032

  Description

  This course examines diverse ethnic cultures and identities in China, and the ethnic relations between the state power and ethnic groups in historical contexts as well as the contemporary situation of the social institutions of ethnic minorities in China. The course lectures and tutorials are designed to introduce the topics to the students and to accelerate students’ intellectual development.
• CORE 2555

  Peoples and Cultures in Southeast Asia

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2638

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course aims to study the cultural diversity in Myanmar, Thailand, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, and the complex historical development of majority/minority relations and the formulation of cultural identities among different peoples, as well as the dynamic relations among religion, ethnicity, tourism and modernity in this region.
• CORE 2571

  Buddhism and the Chinese Intellectual Tradition

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2840

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course will introduce the basic ideas of Buddhism, the main schools of Buddhism in China and their historical development. A number of Chinese Buddhist philosophical terms and some works written by Chinese monks and scholars will be selected for explanation and discussion. This course examines the dynamics of cultural interaction and choice-making with an emphasis on Buddhism as an Indian religion and its encounters with indigenous Chinese traditions and the outcomes of their interactions.
• CORE 2572

  Buddhism: Origin and Growth

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2911

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  An examination of the historical, religious and philosophical foundation of the Buddhist tradition in India and exploration of the history of Buddhism as a world religion with an emphasis on the basic doctrines and philosophy of Buddhism.
• CORE 2573

  Ethical Theories and Contemporary Issues

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2921

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course introduces students to the ethical theories of deontology (or the ethics of duty), utilitarianism (or the ethics of consequences), and virtue ethics (or the ethics of character). This is followed by an examination of their application to selected contemporary moral issues. In general, issues relating to the following areas may be considered: the environment, business, information technology, and bioethics. The precise issues discussed may vary from year to year.
• CORE 2574

  What am I? Personal Identity and the Self from a Philosophical Perspective

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2930

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Most of us have a special interest in what will happen to ourselves. If you learn that someone will win a one-million lottery tomorrow, you feel happy for them. If you are then told that the someone is you, a new set of emotions arises. What am I? The course discusses the possibility of life after death, the existence of a soul, the possibility and desirability of immortality, abortion, and euthanasia. These discussions greatly affect how one chooses one's religion and perceives the value of life. We will read classical and contemporary theories of the self, personal identity, afterlife, death, and will explore the relation between the self and its environment, the basis of (non)egoistic future concerns and responsibilities. By looking at different approaches and various (Eastern and Western) philosophical and religious traditions to answering fundamental questions, we learn to develop the habit to think in a critical way.
• CORE 2601

  Reading Chinese Literature: Dreams of the Red Chamber

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2240

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course is a study of one of the most famous Chinese novels, Dreams of the Red Chamber. A close reading of the novel will benefit our students in terms of their literary appreciation and writing skills.
• CORE 2603

  Contemporary Chinese Fiction (1949-present)

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2260

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course will describe modern Chinese fiction from 1949 to the present, a historical background of Modern Chinese thought will be explained. Some literary theory will be discussed when explaining the stories.
• CORE 2604

  Traditional Chinese Poetry: Early Chinese Poetry

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2300

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course will describe the origins and early development of classical Chinese poetry, e.g, Shijing, Chuci, folk songs, and major poets of the Han Dynasties. The meaning of these poetry will be examined. The distinguishing aesthetic feature will be discussed.
• CORE 2605

  Traditional Chinese Fiction

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2310

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [EN] Taught in Eng/Chin subject to diff. offerings
  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  A survey of traditional Chinese fiction from its formative period to the Qing through the reading of selected texts, with emphasis on the evolution of the forms and themes and their cultural implications. In this class, we study full-length fiction as well as short stories written in both vernacular and classical Chinese. Some questions we ask include: Who are the authors and the audience? What are the forms and aesthetic conventions of traditional Chinese fiction? What are the historical, political, and moral concerns of traditional Chinese fiction? The class will address these questions through historical contextualization and close reading of representative works.
• CORE 2606

  Anime

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2330

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  With the rise of digital culture since the late 1980s, Japanese animation, widely known as anime, has become a global phenomenon. Given its sweeping impact worldwide, we can no longer dismiss it as mere pop culture and entertainment. Indeed, anime has gradually emerged as a new field of research, dominating film histories and theories in the academia. This course offers an overview of anime by examining its histories, techniques and technologies, medium, genres, and conceptual issues. It will track anime’s early years, development, industrialization, globalization, and explosive boom in the digital age. Focusing on cinema features and TV series, this course will explore a variety of overlapping (sub)genres, such as Robot, Mecha, Cyberpunk, Apocalypse, Adventure, Supernatural, Shōjo, and Tragedy. Conceptual issues like cuteness, gender, sexuality, race, nation, environment, human-machine interaction, AI and posthumanism will be examined closely. Japanese language and knowledge are welcome but not required for this course.
• CORE 2607

  Between Old and New: Chinese Stories and Their Reinventions

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2340

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course traces the transmutation and reinvention of classical Chinese stories from ancient times to present era. What are the stories told once and again in Chinese culture? Is it true that each retelling is different? Or do things stay more or less the same despite changes of time? Are there perennial themes that thread through Chinese civilization? Is this a valid question? In this course, we engage these questions by putting examples in Chinese literature and culture from the past and the present into dialogue. Taking a transmedia approach, this course brings in both textual and visual materials from history, literature, and cinema. By juxtaposing materials of relevance from different times and carried by various media, we explore continuities and discontinuities in Chinese culture as well as the possibilities and limits each historical moment offers for cultural transformation.
• CORE 2631

  Enjoyment of Western Opera

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2101

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  An examination of the historical development of western opera, and selected western operas with their related literary texts. This course will also put some emphasis on works that are related to Asian cultures, and operas that will be performed in Hong Kong. No previous knowledge of opera is required.
• CORE 2632

  Music Theory I: Introduction to Tonal Music

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2104

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  SISP 1709

  Description

  This course is an introduction to the fundamentals of Western music theory with an emphasis on reading and writing musical notation, ear training, and analytical listening. Students will develop an understanding of how texture, harmony, rhythm, dynamics, melodic development, and other parameters interact to create music. Examples used in the class will be drawn mostly, but not exclusively, from classical repertoire. Although prior musical training will be helpful, there are no prerequisites for the course.
• CORE 2633

  Music, Drama, and Theatre

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2105

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course will guide the students to create, produce, and perform their own musical theatre work. As musical theatre is a multi-artwork, this course would be suitable for students who are interested in language art, music, theatre, dance, and visual art. At the discretion of the instructor, an in-class or public performance would be offered during the term. No prior knowledge or experience of performing arts is required.
• CORE 2634

  Introduction to Electronic Music Composition

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2107

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course will develop students' appreciation of various types of electronic music via an open, creative environment for its composition. We will explore the nature of sound and approaches to its organization -- listening deeply to music and the world around us -- and cover theory and practice in digital audio signal processing. Since we will be working with ‘concrete sound’, students need not have any prior experience in music notation or composition to participate in the course. The course will culminate in an open concert-presentation of final works that students will have developed over the semester.
• CORE 2635

  Music of China

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2108

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course will look at various forms of Chinese music, focusing in particular on instrumental genres. Although the aim is not to present the history of Chinese music per se, the topical organization of the course will follow a more or less chronological framework as attention is drawn to certain issues and prominent characteristics of music and musical life in China from ancient times to the present. The ability to read music or knowledge of musical notation would be helpful, but not required.
• CORE 2651

  Introduction to Chinese Painting

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2660

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  A survey of major monuments, schools and theories from earliest times to the twentieth century, with an introduction to the problems of connoisseurship in Chinese painting.
• CORE 2652

  Chinese Oil Painting

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2661

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course gives students knowledge of the development of oil painting in China. Focusing on the history of China in the 20th and 21st centuries, the course explores the social, cultural and political circumstances that favored, oppressed and directed the path of the development of Chinese oil painting in different periods of time.
• CORE 2654

  Understanding Western Architecture

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 2680

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course gives students fundamental knowledge of the masterpieces of Western architecture and the variation in styles in different epochs and cultures, from ancient Greece to the 21st century.
• CORE 2720

  Exploring Political Theory

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 2320

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course offers an introduction to some of the major ideas and issues in political theory. The overarching theme is to explore the relevance of political theory to addressing pressing political issues in today's world. The first part of the course presents a number of classical ideas in political theory, namely political authority and obligation, liberty, equality, justice, and democracy. The second part of the course discusses a selection of contemporary issues through the lens of political theory, including human rights, gender, multiculturalism, global poverty, war and intervention, and the environment. Students will benefit with the knowledge and skills for comprehending and discussing public affairs in everyday life.
• CORE 2730

  Education and Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 2130

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  The course will initiate a sociologically informed conversation about formal education. What social and organizational forces have shaped current educational practices, and how can they be reformed? How does schooling perpetuate inequalities? Why do boys perform so poorly compared to girls in schools? How can ethnic minorities be better served in educational systems? What is the role of the humanities and creativity in education? Why do people now question the value of higher education? What is the future of education? To answer these questions, students will be encouraged to reflect upon their own educational experiences, read sociological accounts of education and participate in contemporary debates about education at all levels in Hong Kong and across cultures.
• CORE 2740

  Gender and Society

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 2740

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Every aspect of social life is gendered. The purpose of this course is to help students develop a sociological mindfulness in order to appreciate this. That is, we will explore gender as the product of culture, groups and organizations and pay attention to behaviors and ways of thinking that are so taken-for-granted that we often fail to question them, with an eye to examining gender inequalities. Topics will include education, gendered social movements, men and women in the workplace, intimate relationships, family and sexuality (including LGBT), gender, science, technology and innovation, gendered violence and gender in the global economy. The focus of our discussions will be on gender in Hong Kong and China.
• CORE 2830

  Environmental Politics and Policy

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 2330

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This course introduces the various ideas, actors and institutions in environmental politics, as well as their dynamics in shaping environmental policy. The first part of the course presents the competing theoretical foundations for environmental politics and discusses the major forms of collective action. The second part analyzes government's policy responses to environmental activism in the context of capitalist political economy. Students will benefit from the perspectives into managing environmental sustainability through democratic politics and reflecting on the relationship between nature and society.
• CORE 2940

  Science, Technology and Society in China

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  PPOL 2110

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This course aims to cultivate students’ systematic and critical thinking about science, technology, innovation, and society, especially in light of the transition from traditional China to contemporary China. Differing from the usual courses focusing on this subject, this course will take a social and critical approach, enabling students to understand and analyze the social, political, and cultural preconditions and impacts of scientific and technological development. By the end of the course, students should understand the significance of the social, cultural, and political preconditions underlying scientific and technological innovations and be able to gauge the impact of those innovations. They should also be able to systematically analyze the factors that make innovation significant and use this analysis to critically examine the development of science and technology over the course of China’s history.
• CORE 2941

  Urban Air Pollution

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ENVR 2020

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  The course is aimed at providing students with insights in how to deal with environmental problems and the way in which science interfaces with policies. It will cover major topics on the sources of air pollutions, air chemistry, oxidation of organic compounds and issues on control of air pollutant emissions and air quality management.
• CORE 2942

  Sustainability Thinking

  3 Credit(s)
  Previous Course Code(s)

  ENVR 3010G

  Alternate code(s)

  ENVR 2050

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning
  [EXP] Experiential learning

  Description

  We start with one simple question: is there something special or unique about a sustainability mindset that provides us better insights and tools for solving long-term or systemic problems? In this hands-on class we first start by challenging the traditional methods for making decisions, recognizing some typical thinking “blunders” that result in non-sustainable outcomes. We then explore several conceptual tools and skills that can help us overcome these mistakes like systems thinking, future thinking, strategic thinking, values thinking, and complex problem solving. We then test out these mental tools by working together to develop a range of potential solutions to some of Hong Kong’s most difficult sustainability challenges. This is a flipped classroom – using online learning modules in place of lectures – with class time dedicated to theme based discussions and group exercises.
• CORE 2943

  From Trash to Treasure: Managing Waste to Resources

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ENVR 2060

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  The course provides students with elementary knowledge on managing municipal solid waste, specifically post-consumer recyclable waste such as plastics, paper and cardboard, metals, glass and e-waste in a sustainable manner. The focus is set on waste recovery, which implies to reclaim resources from waste through mechanical, technical and logistical operations. In detail, the course will cover the following aspects: First, waste generation in the international context, with particular focus on quantities and composition to highlight the impact of different socioeconomic development patterns. Second, waste management strategies at the national level including the Circular Economy waste hierarchy priorities of reduce, reuse and recycle. Third, recovery measures of collection and transfer with particular consideration of cost-effectiveness and technical feasibility. Fourth, a comparative approach between the EU and China on systemic benefits and disadvantages. Fifth, an in-depth evaluation of sustainable management of e-waste and waste plastics.
• CORE 2944

  Smart Buildings for a Warming Planet

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  ENVR 2070

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning
  [EXP] Experiential learning

  Description

  Buildings are energy‐intensive infrastructures in urban environment. In light of the International Panel on Climate Change’s (IPCC’s) reports, global warming must be limited to 1.5 deg. C. The course takes a non‐technical approach on how Smart Buildings can contribute to Zero Carbon emissions by 2050. Deployment of smart technologies (improving energy efficiencies, carbon mitigations and renewables) helps control buildings’ energy consumption and manage energy conservation resulting in ‘Smart’ or ‘Carbon Neutral’ buildings in the warming world. The significance in engaging governmental, business and social stakeholders will also be deliberated in the course for the successful provision of smart buildings in Hong Kong and internationally.
• CORE 3501

  Language, Communication and Culture

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3030

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course explores human language in relation to the communicative functions which it serves and the cultural context in which it is used. Issues such as how human language is distinct from other communication systems, how language is used to convey different meanings and how culture affects the use of language will be examined in order to highlight the uniqueness of human language.
• CORE 3502

  Psychology of Language

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3050

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course will focus on the psychological processes of language use. It includes an introduction to basic linguistic and psychological models and examines the biological foundations of language. Psycholinguistic issues in language comprehension and language production will be discussed. Over the course of the semester, it covers research areas such as speech perception and production, word recognition, sentence processing, and language in the brain.
• CORE 3503

  Language and Migration

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3060

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course aims to stimulate students' thinking and broaden their knowledge about language in relation to migration in the contemporary multilingual world. This is a world which is a product of mobility of people, information and products across physical and virtual boundaries. Languages themselves are changed through migration. Within a context of linguistic diversity, language is central to the organization of institutions, access to information, the exchange of goods and the ability to communicate. Students will investigate how language is used by migrants in areas including health, education, the law and employment. They will explore how language practices are shaped by face-to-face and mediated encounters and by the constraints of political and institutional contexts. Key questions are: What languages and forms of communication get used, when, why and where? What linguistic factors enable and limit access for migrants to services and resources? What are the consequences?
• CORE 3521

  Reading Modern Chinese History Historically

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3430

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course introduces students to a series of socio-political historical events in late-Qing and the Republican periods. More importantly, it introduces some of the essential skills in identifying the fundamental problems and narratives in modern Chinese history texts from the late Qing to the 1940s. Topics covered are traditional and modern Chinese historiographies, the Opium War, the Taiping Rebellion, Sun Yat-sen and the legend of the 1911 revolution, the impact of western imperialism on China, warlordism, the peasant revolutions of the 1920s and 1930s.
• CORE 3571

  Guided Studies in Chinese Philosophical Classics

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3800

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course is a guided study of selected Chinese philosophical classics, with emphasis on the hermeneutical issues associated with the texts. The related Chinese philosophers are introduced to the students, including Mencius, Xunzi, Laozi, Zhuangzi, Mozi, Gongsun Longzi and Wang Yang-ming. Topics include: “the basis of li (rites)”, “the rectification of names”, “the four beginnings”, “the four metaphors”, “evil nature”, “ineffable Dao”, “the butterfly’s dream”, “the fish’s happiness”, “white horse is not horse”, “the immutability of things”, “the impure nature of Buddhas”, “embracing the six qualities” and “the questions on Great Learning”.
• CORE 3572

  Taoism and the Chinese Tradition

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3810

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  This course is an introduction to Taoism as a living tradition in the context of Chinese history and culture. It is a living tradition since some of its important ideas like “the soft can conquer the hard” and “not to show one’s intelligence to the fullest extent” are still present in the attitude of life of the Chinese people. To enable students to learn and appreciate the insights of Taoism directly, some scholarly researches and especially the primary texts of the Laozi and Zhuangzi will be introduced.
• CORE 3573

  Classical Chinese Philosophy (in English)

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3821

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course examines the intellectual development of early Chinese by focusing on four major schools: Confucianism, Mohism, Daoism, and Legalism. This course will introduce representative philosophers in ancient China, such as Confucius, Mozi, Laozi, Zhuangzi, Xunzi, Hanfeizi, and Mencius. We will explore their thoughts in ethics, human nature, metaphysics, and self-cultivation. We will read translations of major texts with commentaries and interpretations.
• CORE 3574

  Philosophical Inquiry into the Modern World

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3900

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This intermediate course will introduce students to basic philosophical methods and concepts in order to help them to explore the nature of philosophical inquiry and survey various important fields, problems and issues in the discipline. The change from the Aristotelian world-view, to the Copernican Revolution, and the present Darwinian Revolution, i.e., from a religious and teleological (purposive) view to a non-teleological view, is outlined in the class.
• CORE 3602

  Traditional Chinese Poetry: Tang and Song Poetry

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3210

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  A guided critical study of the representative works of the major shi and ci poets in the Tang and Song periods, with emphasis on the development of the various poetic styles.
• CORE 3603

  Modern Chinese Poetry

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [PU] Putonghua

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course will introduce students to the history of modern Chinese poetry from the early twentieth century to the contemporary era. Major poets and aesthetic styles will be the focus of the class. In addition to developing their abilities in aesthetic appreciation, students will have opportunities to have hands-on experience in writing poems in Chinese, translation, and engaging in creative multi-media poetry projects.
• CORE 3604

  Independent Cinema in Contemporary China

  3 Credit(s)
  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Since the June Fourth Movement in 1989, underground/independent cinema has emerged as an alternative film culture in contemporary China. Distanced from the state-controlled film industry and often regarded as a counter culture against mainstream ideologies, independent cinema is frequently banned in China and screened abroad at international film festivals. As a symbol of both media democracy and secrecy, it provides us with a unique window to understand the diversified culture and society full of clamorous voices in post-1989 China. This course explores the histories, aesthetics, styles, contents, techniques, and technologies of independent cinema in contemporary China. It will be students-oriented and conducted through forms of seminars and discussions. Unlike traditional courses that are based on uni-directional lectures, readings, exams, and papers in a fixed classroom, this experimental course encourages students to venture outside and engage more with our society. It is a non-conventional, open, and democratic course that puts students in direct contact with our rapidly changing world.
• CORE 3651

  Tradition & Modernity: Chinese Ink Painting in 20th Century

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  HUMA 3660

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course surveys the major developments of Chinese ink painting from the late 19th century to the present, focusing on her interaction with foreign cultures, debate over continuity and reform, search for modernity, and adaptation to the political, social, and cultural transformations in different historical periods. Discussions will give equal attention to techniques, stylistic analysis, and interpretations in historical and cultural contexts. In content, this course complements what is not covered by CORE 2651/HUMA 2660 at a more advanced level.
• CORE 3701

  Understanding China, 1700-2000: A Data Analytic Approach

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 3001

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Exclusion(s)

  MGCS 5001

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Mode of Delivery

  [BLD] Blended learning

  Description

  This course introduces some new directions in the study of Chinese history and social science. It aims to demonstrate how a new scholarship of discovery using a data analytic approach is redefining what is singular about modern Chinese history and social science. The course offers alternative perspectives into China derived from 40 years of empirical analyses of almost 10 million records of historical Chinese microdata, distinguishable from those perspectives based largely on Western experience or on Chinese experience seen through a Western lens. Students will benefit from the development of critical thinking skills and the ability to question received wisdom on Chinese history and social science.
• CORE 3710

  East Asian Economic Development

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 3410

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course examines East Asia's economic development using theoretical concepts of development economics that range from classical to developmentalist and neoclassical theories. It also covers a number of concepts and events specific to East Asian economies, including the East Asian "development miracle", the role of government in East Asia's economic development, demographic change, cultural idiosyncracies, regional production networks, and differences in the development strategies and development paths of East Asian countries.
• CORE 3730

  Hong Kong Culture

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 3130

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Medium of Instruction

  [CA] Cantonese

  Reading Material

  [C] Require Chinese reading

  Description

  The course looks at identity, cultural and urban space issues in Hong Kong in the local-national-global nexus, focusing on how popular culture, the state and civil society shape meanings, values, discourses and ideologies, and vice versa, from colonial times to the post-colonial era.
• CORE 3740

  Application of Geographical Information Systems

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 3240

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course provides students with comprehensive knowledge of Geographical Information Systems including basic concepts, software and functions, data and application to social science and other fields.
• CORE 3860

  Public Policy Analysis

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 3600

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  This course introduces students to conceptual frameworks and analytical techniques in approaching various contemporary public policy issues, such as ageing, urbanization, technological innovations, and security. It will help students understand how policies are made, implemented and evaluated in the real world; and how analytical techniques and tools can generate more effective policy interventions. Strong emphasis will be given to the learning and application of analytical techniques widely used in the practices of policy analysis, such as stakeholder analysis, cost-benefit analysis, multi-criteria analysis, and randomized control trials.
• CORE 3863

  Democracy and Democratization around the World

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 3630

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Based on single-country and cross-national research, this course includes some issues concerning democracy and democratization around the world. It will start with helping students understand the debates on the definitions of democracy and explore their implications. The course will then examine empirically the consequences of democracy and thereby debate on the alleged strengths and weaknesses of democracy. The course will also introduce the global expansion of democracies since the late twentieth century. It will analyze the causes of global democratization from various perspectives. Lastly, it will examine the factors shaping democratic stability from various approaches.
• CORE 3880

  Social Inequality and Social Mobility

  3 Credit(s)
  Alternate code(s)

  SOSC 3880

  Prerequisite(s)

  a passing letter grade in CORE 1401 OR CORE 1402 OR CORE 1403 OR CORE 1404 OR LANG 1002 (prior to 2022-23)

  Description

  Social stratification concerns the unequal distribution of resources/rewards/opportunities which are scarce but widely desired, and the process of status attainment or social mobility whereby some persons or groups come to receive more of these scarce things than are received by others. This course will introduce the basic concepts and theories in analyzing social and economic inequalities in the contemporary world.