A University of Applied Sciences integrates academic knowledge with practical learning. Its programmes are closely aligned with the needs of industry and society, and develop application-oriented professionals through industry collaboration, internships and professional training. As a pioneering University of Applied Sciences, Saint Francis University offers Applied Degree programmes and professionally accredited undergraduate programmes to help students acquire the skills required in the workplace.
As a pioneering University of Applied Sciences in Hong Kong, SFU places equal emphasis on theory and practice. Through industry engagement, workplace learning and industry–academia–research collaboration, the University nurtures professional talent equipped to meet the needs of industry and society.
For example, students on the Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) in Applied Hotel and Tourism Management are required to complete a nine-month hotel internship. This enables them to develop practical skills, gain professional experience and understand the day-to-day operations of the industry. Many students subsequently receive employment offers from their host hotels upon completing their placements.
Universities of Applied Sciences also place strong emphasis on industry–academia–research collaboration, applied research and knowledge innovation. SFU continues to promote applied research and knowledge transfer, facilitating the translation of research outcomes into practical impact.
In the 2024/25 academic year, 12 of the University’s research projects received funding from the Hong Kong Research Grants Council (RGC) and other organisations, with total funding HK$80 million. Of these, nine projects received RGC funding totalling approximately HK$12.5 million. This reflects SFU’s established foundation and capacity for development in applied research.
Spanning healthcare, social services and emerging technology applications, these initiatives demonstrate how a University of Applied Sciences connects research with practice to address real-world needs and deliver practical benefits for communities and society.
Universities of Applied Sciences involves industry representatives in curriculum design, teaching and assessment. For example, industry professionals may advise on programme content, serve as guest lecturers, and mentor or assess student projects. This helps to ensure that programmes remain aligned with industry developments and professional requirements.
Besides of classroom learning, Students can also learn through industry talks, corporate internships and authentic projects. These opportunities help them understand workplace operations, build practical experience and prepare for careers in their chosen professional fields.
Compared with traditional, academically oriented universities, Universities of Applied Sciences place greater emphasis on vocational and professional education, as well as close links with industry. Programme curricula are regularly updated in response to industry developments and labour market needs, providing students with diverse pathways for further study and career development.
Graduates may pursue careers in relevant professions and industries, or continue their studies to enhance their professional qualifications and academic attainment. The two models play different yet complementary roles, providing students with diverse routes that reflect their aspirations, interests and strengths.
Yes. Degrees awarded by Universities of Applied Sciences are recognised under the Hong Kong Qualifications Framework, in the same way as degrees awarded by other universities.
Saint Francis University is registered and regulated under the Post Secondary Colleges Ordinance, and All of its programmes have undergone quality-assurance accreditation by the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ). Some programmes are also accredited by relevant professional bodies in disciplines such as nursing, physiotherapy, social work, accounting, corporate governance and early childhood education. These accreditations support graduates in pursuing professional qualifications, further studies or careers in related fields.
Universities of Applied Sciences are well suited to students interested in professional and practice-based learning, and who wish to acquire professional skills through internships, workplace learning and hands-on projects. They are particularly suitable for those with clear career goals and those seeking professional qualifications.
With their strong emphasis on practical learning and a balanced integration of theory and practice, Universities of Applied Sciences are suitable both for students who already have a clear career direction and for those who are still exploring their future pathways. They can also benefit working professionals, including those encouraged by their employers They can also benefit working professionals, including those encouraged by their employers to pursue degree programmes at the University of Applied Sciences in order to strengthen their professional capabilities and career-progression prospects.
Programmes offered by Universities of Applied Sciences are designed in response to industry needs and focus on enhancing graduates’ employability. During their studies, students gain substantial internship experience and keep abreast of the latest industry developments. This helps prepare them to enter their chosen professional fields upon graduation. Graduates of Saint Francis University have positive prospects for both further studies and career developmentAccording to Saint Francis University graduate outcomes data, graduates record an average starting salary of approximately HK$31,000, and around 90% progress to further studies or employment.
Yes. Universities of Applied Sciences offer flexible and diversified programme options, including part-time bachelor’s degree programmes, top-up degrees and postgraduate programmes. Many programmes are available on a part-time basis, allowing working professionals to pursue further study at a pace that suits their circumstances while strengthening their professional capabilities and workplace competitiveness.
Some programmes also take applicants’ work experience into account. Eligible applicants may apply for senior-year entry or credit transfer, which may shorten the duration of study.
The Government supports the development of Universities of Applied Sciences through a range of financial and policy measures, including the following: