The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

What you'll study

The programme combines taught modules, applied practice and a research or capstone project to develop competencies in assessment, intervention, prevention and service development across the lifespan. Core topics typically include psychological theories of mental health, psychopathology, assessment and formulation, evidence-based psychosocial interventions, crisis and risk management, and community mental health practice.

Students also study research methods and statistics to support service evaluation and applied research, and modules on ethics, multicultural practice and policy to prepare for work in diverse settings. Elective options often allow specialisation in areas such as child and adolescent mental health, geriatric mental health, substance use and addiction, couple and family interventions, or workplace mental health.

The course structure normally includes a mix of lectures, seminars, case-based learning, simulation and supervised clinical practicum in partner hospitals, NGOs or community agencies. The programme concludes with either a dissertation, project or practicum portfolio that demonstrates applied competence and scholarly understanding of a mental health topic.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline (for example psychology, social work, nursing, education or a health-related subject). Candidates with degrees in other fields may be considered if they have relevant work experience in mental health or social services and can demonstrate suitability for advanced study.

Typical application requirements include academic transcripts, a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience, and references. Applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English through an accepted language test or equivalent evidence; specific test score requirements are published by the university. Selection may include an interview to assess readiness for practice-based training.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue roles across clinical, community and organisational settings. Common destinations include mental health services within hospitals and community clinics, non-governmental organisations providing psychosocial support, school counselling and student support services, workplace employee assistance and wellbeing teams, and policy or programme roles in public health departments.

The programme also prepares graduates to undertake applied research or further professional training in counselling, clinical psychology or psychiatric nursing, subject to meeting the entry requirements of those professional programmes. Many graduates take on positions that involve case management, care coordination, programme development, supervision and mental health promotion.

Why study at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University

The Hong Kong Polytechnic University offers a multidisciplinary, practice-focused learning environment with strong links to local hospitals, community agencies and government services, enabling substantial applied learning and practicum opportunities. Teaching is delivered by faculty with expertise in mental health practice, research and policy, and students benefit from access to PolyU’s research facilities and professional networks in the region.

Studying at PolyU also offers a Hong Kong and Asia-Pacific context for understanding culturally informed approaches to mental health care, which is valuable for practitioners working with diverse populations. The university’s emphasis on applied research and community engagement supports students aiming to improve service delivery and outcomes in real-world settings.