Co-op @ HKU
Mission
The Teaching and Learning mission of the University of Hong Kong aims to produce graduates who are knowledgeable, critical thinkers who will be able to contribute positively to the global community in a variety of ways. Our undergraduate curriculum and our range of experiential learning offerings are designed to enable our students to develop themselves in:
- Pursuit of academic/professional excellence, critical intellectual inquiry and life-long learning
- Tackling novel situations and ill-defined problems
- Critical self-reflection, greater understanding of others, and upholding personal and professional ethics
- Intercultural communication, and global citizenship
- Communication and collaboration
- Leadership and advocacy for the improvement of the human condition
While there are many classroom educational activities to achieve some of these aims, a co-operative education programme, which allows students to apply themselves immersively by working in a professional setting, is an effective experiential learning opportunity to achieve many of the HKU UEA that are not easily achieved inside the classroom.
Vision
The HKU Co-operative Education Programme (Co-op programme) is a cooperation between three parties— the University, the Employer, and the Student— who will work collaboratively to create a fruitful educational experience:
HKU frames the Co-op programme as one of our immersive experiential learning opportunities through which our students will achieve the HKU University Educational Aims.
Our Employer Partners in the Co-op programme will not only be contributing to the development of our future generation through their mentorship, but will also be able to have early access to identify and shape future employees, and leverage their talent and innovative ideas to contribute to their organization during the work term.
For Students, this is both an experiential learning and a project course in your learning programme: an opportunity to see first-hand how knowledge gained in the classroom can contribute to solving real-world problems, as well as the range of soft-skills needed to work effectively and collaboratively in a professional setting. It is also an opportunity for personal growth and development.
“At HKU we always encourage students to craft their own learning experiences. The Co-op programme is no exception. Although the University and our Employer partners provide the framework and the setting, it is up to each student to make the most of this educational opportunity. It is not just a 9-to-5 job; it is the context in which you will experience how to contribute to solving real world problems and meeting real-world deadlines, find out what you know and what you don’t–and learn! It is overall a growing and educational experience.”
Prof. Pauline Chiu
Associate Vice-President (Teaching and Learning)
“The Co-op Programme is a critical launchpad for students to gain a head start in their careers. By integrating real-world placements at leading organisations with academic learning and mentorship, students can expand their professional capabilities, such as communication, collaboration, and adaptability— attributes highly prized by employers. This direct industry exposure boosts their confidence, equips them to navigate their career aspirations effectively, and enhances their employability in the evolving landscape of the future of work.”
Dr. Jack Tsao
Associate Director
Common Core Office
“The Co-op programme provides a unique experiential learning opportunity, combining real-world workplace immersion with academic reflection and personal development. CEDARS, being part of the Co-op team, is proud to support this initiative by offering comprehensive Co-op Career Preparatory modules, equipping students with essential skills such as career planning, CV writing, interview techniques, effective networking, and building mental resilience for workplace success. We look forward to collaborating with our students and Co-op partners to ensure a truly transformative experience for all!”
Ms. Kate Lam
Director of Careers and Placement
CEDARS