Program Overview

Introduction to the ITS Transdisciplinary PhD Programme

The University's Transdisciplinary Research initiative prominently includes four University Research Clusters. The Institute of Transdisciplinary Studies (ITS) Transdisciplinary PhD Programme aims at admitting exceptional PhD students who can contribute to and benefit from this initiative.

Programme Overview

The ITS Transdisciplinary PhD Programme supports HKBU's four Research Clusters and prioritises emerging, real-world topics with strong potential for community engagement and societal impact. Supervisors are encouraged to propose transdisciplinary projects aligned with one of the following Research Clusters, which include but are not limited to the areas of focus such as Creative Media and Practice, Health and Drug Discovery, Data Analytics and Artificial Intelligence, and Humanities and Cultures. The Programme offers project-based training that addresses real-world challenges through transdisciplinary collaboration. Each student is guided by a Thesis Supervisory Committee comprising a Principal Supervisor (Chair), a Co-supervisor (internal), and an External member (industry or international academic partner). This structure enhances transdisciplinary learning, international exposure, and the practical relevance of research. The refined curriculum emphasizes skill-based training, research methodologies that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries, transdisciplinary research seminars, and experiential learning, equipping students to produce impactful, applied research outcomes.

Curriculum Structure

The curriculum structure is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and well-rounded education in transdisciplinary research. It includes:

• Skill-based training
• Research methodologies that transcend traditional disciplinary boundaries
• Transdisciplinary research seminars
• Experiential learning

Tuition Fee and Financial Support

Details regarding tuition fees and financial support for the programme can be found through the university's official channels. Additionally, there is a conference and research-related travel allowance of HK$20,000 for the whole study period.

Eligibility

Applicants should possess:

• A Master's degree from a recognised university or a comparable institution; or
• A Bachelor's degree with first-class honours from a recognised university or a comparable institution.

Language Proficiency Requirements

An applicant seeking admission on the basis of a qualification from a university or comparable institution where the language of instruction and/or examination is not English must submit an official score report showing a minimum overall score (achieved in a single sitting) in one of the following tests:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) at a minimum of 79 (IBT)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS) at a minimum of 6.5

Application Procedures

Interested applicants should submit an application together with all necessary supporting documents. Applicants are encouraged to discuss the research proposal with their potential Principal Supervisors before submitting the applications. The proposed research should align with the strategic Research Clusters of the University.

Application Details

• Explore potential Principal Supervisors and Project Abstracts tailored to your research interests.
• Indicate your research interest and proposed supervisor in your online application.
• Attach necessary supporting documents.
• Submit your application.

Result Announcement

Successful applicants will receive an email notification. Applicants who do not hear from us by a specified date may consider their applications unsuccessful.

Additional Information

While the existing University admission requirements must be met, applicants demonstrating research alignment with HKBU's four Research Clusters, academic excellence, including strong academic records, publications, and conference experience, will be accorded with higher priority.