(Source of image: Qualifications Framework Secretariat)
7. How well is an Associate Degree and a Higher Diploma is recognised?
As pitched at HKQF level 4, Associate Degree and Higher Diploma qualifications are widely recognised by local and overseas universities. Student Counsellors will provide counselling and consultation services for further studies and hold articulation seminars to students. The admission requirements of different universities may vary and it is subject to the final decision of individual university and programme.
8. What is the articulation rate of Associate Degree and Higher Diploma programmes?
According to recent figures, the articulation rate of different Associate Degree and Higher Diploma programmes varies. For example, over 85% of business graduates furthered their studies*. Among those who continued their study for a bachelor’s degree, over 90% were admitted to local universities (50% were admitted to Lingnan University)*. All the eight UGC-funded Universities in Hong Kong admitted our Associate Degree and Higher Diploma graduates.
* Data from Graduate Survey
9. What is the articulation rate of Diploma in College Foundation Studies?
We offer a promising articulation opportunity to our Diploma in College Foundation Studies graduates. Students can articulate to our Associate Degree or Higher Diploma programmes via our “Direct Admissions Scheme”. Admission interview is exempted, and a firm offer is guaranteed.
10. What are the differences between Associate Degree and Higher Diploma programmes?
|
Associate Degree |
Higher Diploma |
Focus |
- Theoretical knowledge and critical thinking orientated
- Liberal education and academic training
- Generic skills development
|
- Emphasis on both theory and practice
- Vocational training oriented
- Industry / Professional special skills and practical knowledge development
|
Duration |
2 years |
Graduate prospects |
Prepare students for further studies or employment |
11. Is there any student support services?
LIFE provides various services and activities to students, helping students to adapt learning environment and atmosphere of tertiary education.
Orientation activities will be arranged to new students for a better understanding on learning supports and service provided by LIFE. Meeting senior students in the activity will help new students to build a better peer relationship and supporting network. Under the
mentorship programme, teacher mentors meet and get to know their student mentees in
mentorship reunions, providing advice and assistance to students, supporting them in overcoming difficulties in their learning.
Besides, LIFE provides
personal development and
student counselling service. Through individual and group counselling, student counsellors help students in attaining a better self-awareness, nurturing diversified potentials and abilities. Students could make appointment of guidance or counselling service whenever they encounter problem or life challenge. Some examples include special educational needs, career planning, learning and adaptation difficulties, personal growth, mental health issue, peer relationship and emotional distress. Moreover, student counsellors provide students with assistance in local and overseas
articulation guidance. They arrange articulation talk, and provide articulation information and consultation to students.
Last but not least, students could enjoy
medical and dental benefits, and receive service from numerous medical and dental clinics with preferential fees.
12. Is there any scholarships?
LIFE provides Entrance Scholarship, Articulation Scholarship, Progression Scholarship, Academic Scholarship and Community Service Scholarship to students.
Entrance Scholarship will be awarded to newly admitted students who possess outstanding academic performance or special achievements.
Articulation Scholarship will be awarded to LIFE Diploma graduates, LIFE Diploma Yi Jin graduates and LIFE Applied Learning (ApL) students to encourage students to further their studies at LIFE.
Progression Scholarship will be granted as an incentive to Associate Degree or Higher Diploma Year 1 students who progress to Year 2 with outstanding academic results.
Academic Scholarships will be awarded to students according to their academic merit and contributions to LIFE or the University. Students who have outstanding involvement in community service and active participation in extracurricular activities in LIFE can apply for
Community Service Scholarship.
13. What if my HKDSE results do not meet the admission requirements of Associate Degree or Higher Diploma (i.e. without level 2 or above in five HKDSE subjects including Chinese Language and English Language)
? Are there any other programmes for me?
Diploma in College Foundation Studies or Diploma in Applied Education are suitable for you. Please click
HERE for more information.
14. How much are the tuition fees for Associate Degree, Higher Diploma and Diploma in College Foundation Studies programmes?
The tuition fee for the programmes offered in the academic year 2023-34 are as follows:
Students need to pay Graduation deposit HK$600 when paying the first instalment of tuition fee.
15. Can I apply for financial assistance from the government?
Students can apply for different financial assistance from the government as follows:
|
Associate Degree and Higher Diploma |
Diploma in College Foundation Studies |
Financial Assistance Scheme for Post-secondary Students (FASP) |
✔ |
✘ |
Non-means-tested Loan Scheme for Post-secondary Students (NLSPS) |
✔ |
✘ |
Extended Non-means-tested Loan Scheme (ENLS) |
✘ |
✔ |
Continuing Education Fund (CEF)
|
✔ |
✔ |
16. What is the application period? When does the academic year start?
The application period starts from 8 December 2022. Once the programme is full, the application is closed.
The academic year of Associate Degree, Higher Diploma and Diploma in College Foundation Studies starts from early September each year.
17. What are the graduation requirements of Associate Degree, Higher Diploma and Diploma in College Foundation Studies programmes?
Associate Degree and Higher Diploma students are required to fulfil the following within the study period upon graduation:
- Passed all the courses as stipulated in the curriculum of the respective programmes; and
- Completed at least 60 credits with a Cumulative GPA 1.67 or above
- (For Associate Degree students ONLY) Completed the Life Enrichment and Appreciation Programme upon graduation.
Diploma in College Foundation Studies students are required to fulfil the following within the study period upon graduation:
- Passed all the courses as stipulated in the curriculum of the respective programmes; and
- Completed at least 30 credits with a Cumulative GPA 1.67 or above.
18. FAQ for current students of LIFE Diploma in College Foundation Studies / Diploma Yi Jin who are interested in applying for Associate Degree or Higher Diploma programmes:
Please click
HERE for more information on application of Associate Degree and Higher Diploma programmes.