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The Chinese University of Hong Kong

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JS4893

Data Science and Policy Studies 數據科學與政策研究

DSPS

Short Description

Think Data. Shape Policy. – Empowering Data-Driven Policy Leaders

The Bachelor of Social Science in Data Science and Policy Studies (DSPS) at CUHK is an interdisciplinary programme that integrates data science with public policy analysis. It is designed to equip students with the skills and vision to design innovative, evidence-based solutions for complex social challenges, using the power of data, technology, and critical thinking.

The programme is ideal for students who:

  • Aspire to apply data science in addressing real-world issues such as inequality, sustainability, healthcare, and urban development
  • Wish to develop strong technical capabilities in Python programming, machine learning, social network analysis, and emerging tools such as AI and immersive media
  • Value academic flexibility and are keen to shape their own area of specialisation (e.g. Social Data and Policy, Technology Governance, Urban Innovation, or Environmental Policy Analytics)

Programme Highlights:

  • Integrated training in data management, statistics, machine learning, policy design, and analytical methodologies, with a strong emphasis on integrations and applications
  • Critical exploration of the governance, ethical implications, and real-world applications of emerging technologies including AI, big data, and AR/VR
  • Flexible curriculum structure offering a broad selection of electives across data science and policy applications, allowing students to build a personalised academic pathway and specialisation
  • Experiential learning opportunities, including internships with public and private organisations, a hands-on capstone project, and overseas exchanges to broaden global perspectives

Career Prospects:

Graduates are prepared for impactful careers in but not limited to:

  • Government departments and public policy think tanks
  • Non-governmental and international organisations
  • Consulting and technology firms
  • Academic and research institutions

Remarks:
For details of the undergraduate curriculum, please click here.

Programme Website

Requirements

  • Programme Entrance Requirements
  • General Entrance Requirements
Core Subjects Minimum Level
CHINESE LANGUAGE 3
CITIZENSHIP AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT Attained
ENGLISH LANGUAGE 3
MATHEMATICS COMPULSORY PART 3
Elective Subject(s) Minimum Level
ANY 2 SUBJECTSNOTE 3
NOTE: The two subjects may include:
(i) 2 elective subjects; or
(ii) 1 elective subject and Mathematics (Extended Part) Module I or Module II.


REMARK:
The programme accepts specific Applied Learning course(s) with "Attained with Distinction I/II" as an extra elective subject.
Please refer to https://www.cuhk.edu.hk/adm/jupas/ApL2026 for details.

 

Core Subjects Minimum Level
CHINESE LANGUAGENote1 3
CITIZENSHIP AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENTNote2 Attained
ENGLISH LANGUAGE 3
MATHEMATICS COMPULSORY PART 2
Elective Subject(s) Minimum Level
ANY 2 SUBJECTSNote3 3
Note 1
Applicants with very special circumstances may be granted waivers of this requirement on a case-by-case basis. For details, please click here.

Note 2:
For Liberal Studies (LS) subject taken in 2023 or before, a Level 2 or above will be considered as “Attained” in Citizenship and Social Development. The LS level will not be considered in the calculation of admission scores.

Note 3:
The two subjects may include:
(i) 2 elective subjects; or
(ii) 1 elective subject and Mathematics (Extended Part) Module I or Module II or Other Language subjects (A2 or above in French / German / Spanish; or N3 or above in Japanese; or Grade 3 or above in Korean; or Grade E or above in Urdu).
(iii) For Integrated Science or Combined Science subject(s) taken in 2023 or before, a Level 3 or above will be considered as an unspecified elective subject where applicable.

Note 4:
"Attained with Distinction I/II" in Applied Learning subjects will be accepted by some programmes as an extra subject for awarding bonus points. For details, please click here.     

Calculation of scores for applicants with more than 1 sitting in HKDSE Examination

Most programmes offered by CUHK consider the best results in the same subject taken by a candidate in more than one sitting of HKDSE.  Some programmes may have specific arrangements and the admission scores of candidates seeking admission on the strength of results from more than one sitting of HKDSE may be adjusted.  Details of calculation of scores in more than one sitting of HKDSE for the 2026-27 entry will be finalised and posted at the admissions website (https://admission.cuhk.edu.hk).

First Year Tuition Fee

HK$ 47,000

Contacts

BSSc in Data Science and Policy Studies, School of Governance and Policy Science

Email: dsps@cuhk.edu.hk

Statistics

Application Statistics (after Modification of Programme Choices)

Year Band A Band B Band C Band D Band E Total
2025 76 71 139 238 232 756
2024 91 83 165 283 284 906
2023 33 41 84 181 189 528
2022 51 51 110 188 201 601
2021 56 62 150 243 207 718
2020 80 84 184 207 235 790
2019 113 85 149 180 168 695

Offer Statistics (as at the Announcement of the Main Round Offer Results)

Year Band A Band B Band C Band D Band E Total
2025 19 0 0 0 0 19
2024 19 0 0 0 0 19
2023 12 0 0 0 0 12
2022 12 0 0 0 0 12
2021 18 0 0 0 0 18
2020 19 0 0 0 0 19
2019 20 0 0 0 0 20
Footnote(s)
  1. The tuition fees for UGC-funded programmes are subject to annual review by the HKSAR Government and applicable to local applicants only.