Programme Introduction
Think Data. Understand Society. Shape Solutions.
Empowering Data-Driven Policy Leaders
The Bachelor of Social Science in Data Science and Policy Studies (DSPS) at CUHK is an interdisciplinary programme that combines data science, technology, and policy studies to address complex challenges facing contemporary society. DSPS equips students with the analytical and technical skills needed to transform data into actionable insights while developing a deeper understanding of the social, institutional, and governance contexts in which decisions are made.
Students learn to apply data science methods to issues such as sustainability, healthcare, urban development, social inequality, technological change, and governance. The curriculum combines training in statistics, programming, machine learning, data analytics, and policy analysis, while exploring the social, ethical, and governance implications of emerging technologies.
The programme is ideal for students who:
- Aspire to use data and evidence to understand and address real-world societal challenges, such as as social inequality, sustainability, healthcare, and urban development;
- Wish to develop practical skills in programming, data analytics, machine learning, AI applications, and social network analysis;
- Value academic flexibility and want to develop their own area of interest across data science methods and social applications (e.g. Social Data and Policy, Technology Governance, Urban Innovation, or Environmental Policy Analytics);
- Are interested in the societal impacts, governance, and responsible use of emerging technologies.
Programme Highlights
- Interdisciplinary Social Science Foundation integrating data science, policy studies, and governance perspectives to address contemporary societal challenges.
- Data Science and Analytical Training in statistics, programming, data management, machine learning, data visualisation, and evidence-based analysis.
- Emerging Technology and Governance through cutting-edge courses in AI, big data analytics, social network analysis, natural language processing, immersive technologies, and technology governance.
- Flexible and Experiential Learning with diverse elective pathways, internships, overseas exchange opportunities, and a capstone project that connect classroom learning with real-world challenges.
Career Prospects
Graduates are prepared for impactful careers in (but not limited to):
- Government departments and public-sector organisations
- Research institutes and think tanks
- International organisations and NGOs
- Technology, consulting, and data analytics firms
- Banking, finance, and business intelligence
- Healthcare and community organisations
- Social innovation and start-up ventures
- Academic and research institutions
Graduates may also pursue postgraduate studies in data science, policy studies, governance, social sciences, and related disciplines.
If you are interested in this programme, please review the application requirements and deadlines specific to the respective admission scheme to increase your chances of getting accepted.
