Program Overview

Programme Overview

The Professional Certificate in Technology Applications for Financial Services is designed in accordance with the Hong Kong Qualification Framework Level 6 on the Qualifications Register (QR). Graduates of this programme are eligible to apply for course and unit exemption with reference to the Graduate School’s Policy on Course and Unit Exemptions for Postgraduate Students. The application is subject to approval from the CUHK Graduate Division of Business Administration and the Graduate School.

Programme Background and Objectives

The programme is an innovative initiative designed to address the challenges and opportunities presented by rapid technological advancements in today’s digital era. It provides a comprehensive analytical framework and knowledge system for successful technology adoption, focusing on both infrastructure development and the implementation of emerging applications. The programme revolutionizes the traditional education model by offering flexibility in studying across various modules. Participants must complete 6 modules to earn the certificate and have the freedom to select electives from a range of unit combinations, aligning with the dynamic nature of the global FinTech sector. The programme aims to equip participants with a comprehensive understanding of modern technology and FinTech business strategies, focusing on significant topics for the long-term development of the financial industry.

Programme Learning Outcomes

At the end of the course, participants will:

1. Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the technology, infrastructure, and strategies to ensure security in financial payments and transactions, taking into account their significance to the financial industry.
2. Analyse and evaluate the function of central counterparties and clearance systems for funds payments and transfers of securities, and identify potential infrastructure-related systemic risks and their impact on credit risk, competitiveness, and monetary and financial stability.
3. Apply relevant infrastructure tools for regulatory compliance and risk management purposes, demonstrating an understanding of their significance in the financial industry.
4. Develop a thorough understanding of the fintech ecosystem, the current trends and applications of new technologies, and their implications for the future of finance.
5. Utilize basic industry, financial, and entrepreneurial knowledge to evaluate the business viability of fintech companies and potentially generate new fintech business ideas.

Programme Curriculum

Participants need to complete 1 core module & 5 elective modules (total 6 units) to obtain the Professional Certificate Programme in Innovation Leadership.

Core Module

• Modern Financial Infrastructure (1 unit) The world of global financial services is changing rapidly with the advancement of financial technologies. The module provides an advanced examination of financial infrastructures, which includes trading venues and platforms, securities settlement systems, payment systems, cross-border transactions interlinks, central counterparties and clearance, cybersecurity, and systemic risks.

Elective Modules

• Technology Applications in Finance and Insurance (1 unit) This module aims to equip participants with an understanding of how technology is driving business innovation.
• Blockchain Applications and Digital Currencies (1 unit) The module explores the fundamental concepts of blockchain, decentralized systems, smart contracts, and the economic and technological underpinnings of digital currencies.
• Data Collaboration and Governance (1 unit) This module provides a comprehensive understanding of data collaboration practices and the critical role of data governance in managing shared data across different industry sectors for mutual benefits.
• Emerging Trends in DeFi, Web3 and Green Fintech (1 unit) The module provides participants with an overview and the foundation of emerging trends in Decentralized Finance (DeFi), the Web3, and green fintech technologies.
• Cyber Security and Risk Management (1 unit) This module provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the principles, practices, and strategies involved in protecting digital assets and managing cyber risks.
• Contemporary Topics of Technology Applications for Financial Services (1 unit) It offers an in-depth exploration of the latest trends and advancements in technology applications within the financial services industry.
• Financial Technology Application: Project (1 unit) The module provides participants with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in financial technology (FinTech) to real-world projects.

Programme Details

Medium of Instruction

English and/or Chinese will be used as the medium for instruction.

Mode of Study

Part Time

Programme Duration

6 – 36 months

Tuition Fee

HKD$ 55,800 per programme (Total 6 modules)

Entry Requirement

Holders of a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Science, Mathematics or Finance / Business-related discipline from a reputable university or equivalent professional qualifications.

Graduation Requirement

To be awarded the Professional Certificate in Technology Applications for Financial Services, participants are required to have an overall attendance rate of 70% of each module and pass the assessments of each module with a letter grade not lower than Grade C.

Note

The Programme reserves the right to cancel the module if the number of registered participants is insufficient or for other unanticipated reasons.