Programme Introduction
This programme is Hong Kong’s first short course on Urban–Rural Integration and Sustainability, anchored in the Northern Metropolis Development Strategy.
It responds to the growing need for professional and academic capacity-building in the context of sustainable development and climate change.
The course equips professionals, corporate leaders, and community advocates with essential knowledge and practical skills in ESG practices, integrated planning, and rural revitalisation.
Through expert-led lectures and immersive field trips, participants will gain a grounded understanding of how ecological conservation can be balanced with spatial innovation in urban–rural contexts.
The programme aims to nurture informed and responsible advocates for sustainable urban–rural development in an era of increasing environmental and social challenges.
This course is co-organised by the School of Architecture and the Centre for Sustainable Placemaking and Urban–Rural Regeneration, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, in collaboration with the Wu Zhi Qiao (Bridge to China) Charitable Foundation.
Programme Information
Target Participants:
This course is designed for individuals who are interested in urban–rural integration, sustainability, and related fields.
Eligibility
Entry Requirements
Applicants should fulfil following requirements:
• Have obtained a recognised Undergraduate degree (or its equivalent qualification)
Interview: An interview may be required where deemed necessary.
Course Schedule
Period: April – May 2026
Format: 12 sessions including field trips
The Course features a guest lecture series delivered by professionals from diverse sectors, including:
• Academics and scholars
• Government representatives
• Corporate developers
• Technical specialists
• Sustainability experts
Course Details
Venue:
The Chinese University of Hong Kong, with field trips conducted in Hong Kong and other parts of the Greater Bay Area.
Commencement Date:
8 April 2026
Class Schedule:
Refer to https://pse.is/8q56dk
Application Deadline:
10 March 2026
extended (Phase one of applications is complete—limited spots remain and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.)
Teaching and Learning
Mode of Delivery:
Face-to-face
Classes will be conducted in the form of lectures, field trips, and seminars.
Total Study Hours:
50 hours
Medium of Instruction:
English, supplemented with Cantonese and Mandarin
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
Student performance will be monitored and assessed on a continuous basis using a variety of assessment tools, including:
• Project
• Classroom participation
• Assignments
Certification
A certificate will be awarded to participants who:
• Achieve an attendance rate of 80% or above; and
• Obtain a passing grade in the assessments.
Fees
Application Fee:
HK$150
Tuition Fee:
HK$13,500
Please transfer the application fee (HK$150) to the following bank account and upload the payment receipt / record before submission.
Name of Account Holder: The Chinese University of Hong Kong
Name of Bank: Hang Seng Bank
Bank Code: 024
Account No..: 293-005005-001
* Please enter your full name in the remarks when making the bank transfer.
Application Checklist
Please prepare the following documents before completing the application form:
1. A photocopy of an identity document
2. A photocopy of academic transcript(s)
3. Curriculum vitae (CV)
4. Applicant Introduction
5. Portfolio (if applicable)
6. The proof of application fee
Youth Scholarships:
Sponsored by the Lee Hysan Foundation, these scholarships empower young leaders in Hong Kong to participate in the Certificate Course on Urban–Rural Integration and Sustainability, fostering growth in conservation and rural revitalisation. Each scholarship provides HK$5,000, awarded to up to 10 recipients.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be Hong Kong residents between the ages of 18 and 39.
- Applicants must attain a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or 3.3 (on a 4.3 scale).
- Applicants must demonstrate clear plans for future development in areas related to Urban–Rural Integration.
Selection Criteria
Scholarship awards will be determined based on academic merit and the quality of the personal statement.
Personal Statement Requirements
Applicants must submit a personal statement of no more than two pages. The statement should address the following:
- Motivation for Application
- Provide a clear explanation of the reasons for applying for the scholarship.
- Future Plans and Contributions
- Outline how, upon completion of the course, you intend to:
- contribute meaningfully to society; and/or
- advance your personal and professional development; and/or
- participate actively in relevant volunteer or community service activities.
Note:
1) Applicant should indicate whether they wish to apply for youth scholarship at the time of course application.
2) Deadline for personal statement submission is 7 April 2026.
Notes
1.All documents submitted will not be returned.
2. The University may require applicants to submit additional information or documentary proof if deemed necessary.
3. If the application is unsuccessful, all documents will be destroyed.
4. Successful applicants will receive an e-mail notification along with Tuition Fee payment details.
5. Successful applicants should settle the Tuition fee by the payment due date as indicated in the email. Failure to do so will lead to withdrawal from the Course.
6. All paid application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
7. Except in cases where the enrolment number is insufficient, paid tuition fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
8. The University reserves the right to cancel the course if the enrolment number is insufficient.
9. The University reserves the right to make changes to the class schedule, venue, instructors, and fees when necessary.
10. Photographs and video recordings may be taken during the course for documentation, reporting, promotional, and marketing purposes. By enrolling in the course, consent is deemed to have been given for such use.
11. For enquiries, please contact the course administrator isabelwong@cuhk.edu.hk.