Seminars and Interview Sessions

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Diploma) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

University of Exeter (12)

Ranked the 141^st globally (THE 2019) and the 12^th in the UK, University of Exeter is top 10 in as many as 29 academic disciplines and reputable for Sports Science, Communications & Media, Sociology, Psychology, Geography and Business studies. The University’s Business School has been a popular option of Hong Kong students for Accounting & Finance (ranked the 7^th), Business Studies (8^th) and Economics (13^th) . Notable alumni include JK Rowling (author of Harry Potter), Thom Yorke (lead singer of Radiohead) and more!

University of East Anglia (15)

Globally ranked the 190^th (THE 2019) in the UK, University of East Anglia (UEA) is a world-renowned university in scientific researches and for many years has been the 1^st choice of students pursuing a degree in Medicine and Pharmacy. The University is also famous for its achievements in Art History, Communication & Media Studies, Geography & Environmental Sciences, as well as medical-related subjects such as Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy. Among many others, 82% of researches in Social Work, Social Policy and International Relations were rated “World Leading” and “Internationally Excellent”, which was top 5 in the UK (REF 2014). In Environmental Sciences, UEA has contributed more than any other universities in the world to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) and are among the leaders in the investigation of climate change. UEA is also ranked the 11^th in International Development.

University of Manchester (19)

The University of Manchester is the 6^th best performing UK university in the QS World University Ranking, which ranked it as the 29^th best in the world (QS 2019). There are as many as 25 Nobel laureates among its alumni and professors. A recent survey also shows that University of Manchester graduates are most targeted by employers in the UK. Students aiming to study at this prestigious university, but fall slightly short of its entry requirement for direct entry into a degree, now have the option of a designated University Foundation programme. The Foundation has considerably higher entry and progression requirements, but can lead to a wide range of academic disciplines including Psychology, Biological Science, Pharmacy, Engineering, as well as many Humanities and Social Sciences degrees.

Newcastle University (21)

Ranked the 141^st globally (QS 2019), Newcastle University is among top 20 in 27 academic disciplines. It is one of the few universities that provide both University Foundation and International Year One in Architecture (ranked the 6^th in the UK), making it a popular choice among aspiring architects. First established as a School of Medicine, the University had been part of Durham University before it became an university of its own. It has been named the “University of the Year” by the Times, for its highly recognized effort in delivering the best education.

Queen’s University Belfast (38)

A member university of the Russell Group, Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) is the top university in the Northern Ireland, which is currently ranked the 180^th globally and the 38^th in the UK. Academic researches by the University were highly rated in the research assessment exercise (REF 2014). In terms of academic disciplines, it’s best known for Pharmacy, Accounting & Finance, Architecture, as well as its strong School of Engineering!

University of Stirling (44)

Named the Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence in 2008, the University of Stirling excels in Sports Science, Education, and Communication & Media. Its sports facilities are often used by the UK and Scotland national teams for training (swimming, tennis, gold and football). Under the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF), degrees in University of Stirling allow more flexibility in electives and changing courses. Students can ‘mix & match’ modules from different disciplines to engineer a degree that fulfills their interest and ambitions. Two third of students are from Scotland while the rest come from England and around the world.

City, University of London (68)

Located in the heart of London with easy access to destinations such as the British Museum and London financial district, City, University of London is a powerhouse for Business Studies as well as Communication & Media. The University is ranked the 38^th in Communication & Media globally (QS 2016). The well-renowned Cass Business School is ranked 16^th in Europe (FT 2018) and many see it as a stepping stone to get into investment banks and large-scale financial institutions. Students benefit from the School’s extensive network of alumni that includes the CEO of Coca Cola Company. Students can connect with these alumni via a private online platform with as many as 2000 active users of alumni.

Manchester Metropolitan University (69)

Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) is home to the second oldest art school in the UK, which has educated generations of artists and designers, including Thomas Heatherwick the designer of the UK pavilion at the Shanghai Expo 2010 and L. S. Lowry the legendary British painter. The Manchester School of Architecture (jointly administered by MMU and University of Manchester) is a world-famous architecture school with star alumni such as prolific architect Norman Foster. Other Art & Design options include Fashion Design (menswear, womenswear and sportswear), Creative Multimedia, Photography, Graphics and 3D design. 75% of teaching modules in the art foundation are art-related, giving students tons of opportunities to perfect their crafts and skills.

University of Gloucestershire (81)

University of Gloucestershire is a university that focuses on Business, Art & Design, Computer Sciences and Humanities. Its Landscape Architecture programmes are leading in the field, which are ranked the 3^rd among programmes accredited by the Landscape Institute (UK) and is the most historical one! Other than that, University of Gloucestershire also provides a wide range of art & design programmes related to popular culture and media, including Pop Music (production and promotion), TV & Film production, Photography (commercial, documentary, journalistic) and Multimedia design. University of Gloucestershire has relatively lower entry requirements and accepts associate and higher diploma graduates to second and final year of their degree courses.

Glasgow Caledonian University (101)

Glasgow Caledonian University provides 4-year degree programmes. The University is good for Physiotherapy, Radiography, Hospitality & Tourism, Medical-Related subjects, as well as Building & Surveying. It is the largest provider of health-related graduates to NHS Scotland and is also the only one that offers Optometry degrees in Scotland, training 90% of eye care specialists in Scotland.

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Year One) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

Swansea University (30)

With hugely improved student satisfaction and graduate prospect, Swansea University in 2019 broke into the Top 30 for the first time in UK university ranking. Traditionally the School of Engineering is the most celebrated school in Swansea University. In the latest research assessment exercise (REF 2014), 94% of researches in engineering were rated as “World Leading” and “Internationally Excellent” – a result comparable to that of traditional engineering schools such as UCL and Bristol. In subject rankings, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering are all ranked within top 15 in the UK – reflecting outstanding performance in both teaching and scientific researches.

University of Leicester (38)

Ranked the 167^th globally (THE 2019) and the 38^th in the UK, the University of Leicester provides the flexibility with Major/Minor degree options, which enables students to concentrate on a subject area as the major subject, while broadening knowledge with a Minor subject. Leicester has put great efforts into science and technology over time. It’s home to the largest space research centre among all European universities. The Department of Physics and Astronomy has participated in the PanCam research project under European Space Agency (ESA)’s ExoMars programme. DNA Fingerprinting technology was also discovered by one of the professors in Leicester!

University of Portsmouth (51)

As its name suggests, University of Portsmouth is located in the port city of Portsmouth in the South of England. It’s one of the polytechnics that were granted university status because of the 1992 Education Act. As one of the best performing Post-1992 universities, University of Portsmouth is now ranked the 51^st in the UK. The University has good reputation in medical-related subjects, educating over 600 medical professionals every year (including pharmacist, medical technologists and radiographers). The £14-million brand new home of the Faculty of Creative & Cultural Industries provides state-of-the-art technology and teaching space for students interested in art, design and new media, which include new Motion Capture facilities as well as Virtual Reality devices such as the Oculus Rift.

University of Herfordshire (90)

Based in Hatfield, the historic centre of British aviation manufacturing, the Faculty of Engineering provides a wide range of options in the area which include aerospace engineering, aerospace technology, etc. Some of these incorporate Pilot studies programmes that offer as many as 400 hours of flying practices, enabling students to qualify for the National Private Pilot’s License when they graduate. Alumni of University of Hertfordshire are widely employed by leading manufacturers in the field such as BAE Systems (one of the world’s largest defense and aerospace manufacturer), Rolls-Royce (the world’s second largest airplance engine manufacturer) and include Frank Ogilvie the deputy chief designer of the Airbus A380.

In Creative Arts, University of Hertfordshire was named the 12^th best in the world for VFX, Animation and Games by the Rookies (an international award for new creative talents). In the two years that follow (2016 & 2017), the Rookies awards also rated the University within Top 5 in a number of specialisms in new media arts including Game Design & Development, Photography, Film Making, VFX & Animation, and, in 2016, number 1 in the world for Next-Gen Gaming!

Students of the School of Creative Arts are offered a wide range of options that include Animation, Digital Media Arts, Special Effects, Music Technology, as well as other more common options such as Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Photography and more!

Robert Gordon University (96)

Located in Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University follows the Scottish education system, providing 4-year undergraduate programmes. The University is one of the polytechnics that were granted university status after the Further and Higher Education Act 1992 and is ranked within top 30 in a wide range of disciplines, which include Building & Surveying, Architecture, as well as medical-related subjects such as Radiography and Physiotherapy. The majority of undergraduate programmes in Robert Gordon University offer a placement. In some cases, these may be year-long paid placement.

The third oldest school of architecture in the UK, the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture & Built Environment is ranked the 28^th for architecture in the UK. Its excellent record of graduate employment shows that 95% of students were in employment within six months after graduation. Students will have the opportunities to go onto overseas field trips, which have in the past covered destinations such as Amsterdam, Venice, Paris, Barcelona and more!

University of Northampton (99)

University of Northampton is a university in the Midlands, which was granted full university status in 2005 but with a history that can be traced back to the 13^th century. The University is well recognized for its efforts in supporting social enterprises and was one of Ashoka’s global network of “Changemaker Campus”. The number of social enterprises that the University works with is so large that it allows every of its 14,000 students an opportunity to work in a social enterprise during their courses. In terms of other academic areas, University of Northampton is strong in teacher training and health subjects, and is the region’s largest providers of teachers and healthcare professionals.

University of Northampton is home to the one and only Leather Technology programme in the UK, which teaches the technology behind the manufacturing and materials of high-end leather products. If you’re interested in a career working with high-end manufacturers and designers of luxurious shoes, handbags, clothes, furniture and sport scars, it’s likely to be the right course for you! In the past five years, the course has achieved a 100% graduate employment rate, reflecting the recognition by the industry.

University of Northampton also offers foundation programmes that can lead to a degree in Podiatry, which suits students who are interested in medical related disciplines!

Anglia Ruskin University (122)

Accredited by the General Optical Council (GOC), the BOptom (Hons) Optometry in Anglia Ruskin University is recognized by the Optometrists Board of Hong Kong. Students therefore will be eligible in registering as an Optometrist in Hong Kong, after successful completion of the professional examination set by the College of Optometrists (UK) and a year of work placement.

During their studies, students will learn to perform eye examinations, acquire knowledge of ocular diseases and pathology. In Year 3, students will spend up to 6 hours per week gaining hands-on experience in the open-to-public University Eye Clinic, performing eye examinations and dispensing patients with appropriate spectacles when required.

Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts (CSVPA) is the art school under Cambridge Education Group, with exceptional track records of student progression and graduate prospect. Many students choose CSVPA because of its success in preparing students for top art schools such as Central St Martins. As artists and designers themselves, the Head and teachers at Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts (CSVPA) understand an art student’s need of dedicated and personal attention and guidance and have taken these into account when they designed the curriculum. Courses in Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts (CSVPA) thus provide as many as 25 hours of contact hours per week with class size controlled at a maximum of 15 students. Every student enjoys dedicated working space and an iMac computer of their own, which opens 7 days a week, allowing students to work on their pieces whenever their inspiration arrives. What’s more? Students are guaranteed the chance to participate in the annual End-of-Year shows in Cambridge and London, which have in the past received material sponsors from world-famous fashion brands such as Jean Paul Gaultier, Vivienne Westwood, Valentino, Burberry and more!

Foundation Diploma in Art & Design
Options of 1-Year and 2-Year Programmes

No matter you’re a British or an international student, if you’d like to study in a creative art & design degree in the UK, it’s likely that you need a year of foundation training before you obtain the high level of art skills that art & design degrees in the UK require.

The art foundation at Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts (CSVPA) is officially accredited by the University of the Arts London Awarding Body and is a specially designed programme aiming to prepare students for top art schools. With as many as 25 hours of art & design modules and 10 subject specialism to choose from, students will be able to find the right combination of modules that can match their interest. These specialism include:

Years after years Cambridge School of Visual and Performing Arts (CSVPA) has produced some very impression records of student progression. In the past seven cohorts (2012-2018), 178 graduates made it to University of the Arts London (UAL) including Central St Martins, one of its most famous colleges, while others went on to study at other famous art schools in the UK and Europe such as Glasgow School of Art, Goldsmiths, Kingston and Istituto Marangoni.

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Year One) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

Swansea University (30)

With hugely improved student satisfaction and graduate prospect, Swansea University in 2019 broke into the Top 30 for the first time in UK university ranking. Traditionally the School of Engineering is the most celebrated school in Swansea University. In the latest research assessment exercise (REF 2014), 94% of researches in engineering were rated as “World Leading” and “Internationally Excellent” – a result comparable to that of traditional engineering schools such as UCL and Bristol. In subject rankings, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering are all ranked within top 15 in the UK – reflecting outstanding performance in both teaching and scientific researches.

University of Leicester (38)

Ranked the 167^th globally (THE 2019) and the 38^th in the UK, the University of Leicester provides the flexibility with Major/Minor degree options, which enables students to concentrate on a subject area as the major subject, while broadening knowledge with a Minor subject. Leicester has put great efforts into science and technology over time. It’s home to the largest space research centre among all European universities. The Department of Physics and Astronomy has participated in the PanCam research project under European Space Agency (ESA)’s ExoMars programme. DNA Fingerprinting technology was also discovered by one of the professors in Leicester!

University of Portsmouth (51)

As its name suggests, University of Portsmouth is located in the port city of Portsmouth in the South of England. It’s one of the polytechnics that were granted university status because of the 1992 Education Act. As one of the best performing Post-1992 universities, University of Portsmouth is now ranked the 51^st in the UK. The University has good reputation in medical-related subjects, educating over 600 medical professionals every year (including pharmacist, medical technologists and radiographers). The £14-million brand new home of the Faculty of Creative & Cultural Industries provides state-of-the-art technology and teaching space for students interested in art, design and new media, which include new Motion Capture facilities as well as Virtual Reality devices such as the Oculus Rift.

University of Herfordshire (90)

Based in Hatfield, the historic centre of British aviation manufacturing, the Faculty of Engineering provides a wide range of options in the area which include aerospace engineering, aerospace technology, etc. Some of these incorporate Pilot studies programmes that offer as many as 400 hours of flying practices, enabling students to qualify for the National Private Pilot’s License when they graduate. Alumni of University of Hertfordshire are widely employed by leading manufacturers in the field such as BAE Systems (one of the world’s largest defense and aerospace manufacturer), Rolls-Royce (the world’s second largest airplance engine manufacturer) and include Frank Ogilvie the deputy chief designer of the Airbus A380.

In Creative Arts, University of Hertfordshire was named the 12^th best in the world for VFX, Animation and Games by the Rookies (an international award for new creative talents). In the two years that follow (2016 & 2017), the Rookies awards also rated the University within Top 5 in a number of specialisms in new media arts including Game Design & Development, Photography, Film Making, VFX & Animation, and, in 2016, number 1 in the world for Next-Gen Gaming!

Students of the School of Creative Arts are offered a wide range of options that include Animation, Digital Media Arts, Special Effects, Music Technology, as well as other more common options such as Fashion Design, Graphic Design, Photography and more!

Robert Gordon University (96)

Located in Aberdeen, Robert Gordon University follows the Scottish education system, providing 4-year undergraduate programmes. The University is one of the polytechnics that were granted university status after the Further and Higher Education Act 1992 and is ranked within top 30 in a wide range of disciplines, which include Building & Surveying, Architecture, as well as medical-related subjects such as Radiography and Physiotherapy. The majority of undergraduate programmes in Robert Gordon University offer a placement. In some cases, these may be year-long paid placement.

The third oldest school of architecture in the UK, the Scott Sutherland School of Architecture & Built Environment is ranked the 28^th for architecture in the UK. Its excellent record of graduate employment shows that 95% of students were in employment within six months after graduation. Students will have the opportunities to go onto overseas field trips, which have in the past covered destinations such as Amsterdam, Venice, Paris, Barcelona and more!

University of Northampton (99)

University of Northampton is a university in the Midlands, which was granted full university status in 2005 but with a history that can be traced back to the 13^th century. The University is well recognized for its efforts in supporting social enterprises and was one of Ashoka’s global network of “Changemaker Campus”. The number of social enterprises that the University works with is so large that it allows every of its 14,000 students an opportunity to work in a social enterprise during their courses. In terms of other academic areas, University of Northampton is strong in teacher training and health subjects, and is the region’s largest providers of teachers and healthcare professionals.

University of Northampton is home to the one and only Leather Technology programme in the UK, which teaches the technology behind the manufacturing and materials of high-end leather products. If you’re interested in a career working with high-end manufacturers and designers of luxurious shoes, handbags, clothes, furniture and sport scars, it’s likely to be the right course for you! In the past five years, the course has achieved a 100% graduate employment rate, reflecting the recognition by the industry.

University of Northampton also offers foundation programmes that can lead to a degree in Podiatry, which suits students who are interested in medical related disciplines!

Anglia Ruskin University (122)

Accredited by the General Optical Council (GOC), the BOptom (Hons) Optometry in Anglia Ruskin University is recognized by the Optometrists Board of Hong Kong. Students therefore will be eligible in registering as an Optometrist in Hong Kong, after successful completion of the professional examination set by the College of Optometrists (UK) and a year of work placement.

During their studies, students will learn to perform eye examinations, acquire knowledge of ocular diseases and pathology. In Year 3, students will spend up to 6 hours per week gaining hands-on experience in the open-to-public University Eye Clinic, performing eye examinations and dispensing patients with appropriate spectacles when required.

Pathway programmes provided by ONCampus can lead to undergraduate degrees in colleges of University of London as well as modern universities such as Coventry! University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Year One) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

These programmes are suitable for HKDSE graduates, while some of them also accept applications from F.5 students.

In the academic year of 2013/14, ONCampus London first introduced the University of London International Foundation Programme in their designated study centre in Birkbeck, University of London. The Programme provides a more challenging curriculum that comes with more diverse progression routes for students aspiring to top universities. With specially written study materials by University of London, students will study four academic subjects (normally students study three subjects in a foundation programme) alongside English language and personal development programmes – a total of 28 teaching hours per week. Upon completion, students will be eligible to apply to a range of UK universities, including top universities such as London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE), Bristol, Durham, Manchester, Nottingham and more!

University of Reading (40)

University of Reading is ranked the 195^th globally (QS 2019) and the 40^th in the UK. Its business school (Hanley Business School) comes 32^nd in the European Business School Ranking (FT 2018). The University offers collaborative Accounting degrees with PwC – one of the Big 4 accounting firms in the world. Entry requirement is high, but students from the programmes will enjoy guaranteed work placements with PwC, and if they achieve a 2:1 and impress on their work placements they will be likely to be offered a permanent job with PwC – which is a very valuable option for students who aspire to become an accountant, especially those who want to pursue a career in the UK after graduation! In addition to applying directly for year one, students can now progress onto the degree via a university foundation.

Building & Surveying, Film Studies, Design and Meteorology are also among the university’s most reputable disciplines. Not only is University of Reading the first UK university to offer Typography and Film Studies, its master’s programmes in Typography are considered one of the best in the world. Many contemporary font designs of our age are created by graduates from University of Reading – these include Calibri (created by Luc(as) de Groot), Comic Sans (created by Vincent Connare) and many more!

Coventry University (46)

Coventry University has been named “Modern University of the Year” by Times in three consecutive years (2014-2016). With high student satisfaction rating and employment rate, Coventry has become one of the most remarkable post-1992 universities, with significant improvements in major university league tables. Communication & Media, Art & Design and Physiotherapy are the most popular areas of study. With over 160 years of history, the Coventry School of Art & Design offers specialist programmes in diverse areas such as Automotive and Transport Design, Interior Design, Product Design.

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) (105)

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is one of the largest universities in the UK that provides a wide range of subject options. In 2014/15, the University started its medicine programme (MBBS), after the success in establishing its dentistry programme. The MBBS programme is tailored for international students and provides placement opportunities in the NHS as well as private clinics. UCLan is known for its outstanding support to its students and a top player in nurturing graduate start-ups. With the good support from the University, over 70% of these graduate start-ups were able to survive the first two difficult years of operation.

Kings Education is an independent sixth form college with campuses in London, Bournemouth, Brighton and Oxford. Kings specializes in educating senior form students (from F.4 on), providing options such as GCSE (1-Year & 2-Year programmes), GCE A-levels (1-Year & 2-Year programmes) and university foundation (1-Year & 2-Year programmes).

With over 50 years of experience, each campus of Kings Education now teaches about 300 students. The personalized approach to education is delivered through small class teaching, with an average of 4-10 per class in GCE A-levels. As such, the University Foundation programmes in Kings also come in two tiers with different curriculums and progression routes. These include the Advanced Level Foundation that offers “guaranteed progression” to year one of an undergraduate degree in University of Bristol or Aston University, upon achieving the specified grades in internal assessment.

GCE A-levels & Advanced Level Foundation: Receive a Conditional Offer from University of Bristol or University of Aston before the Start of Course

Students studying GCE A-levels and the Advanced Level Foundation at Kings Education will receive a conditional offer from University of Bristol or University of Aston before the start of their courses. This means that progression to year one of an undergraduate degree in University of Bristol or Aston University is guaranteed, if students get enough grades in GCE A-levels or internal assessment of the Advanced Level Foundation.

Results & Destinations (2018)

In the GCE A-level class, A*-A rates in GCE A-levels were at 42% while A*-B rates were at 65%. Up to 86% of students have received conditional offers from one of top 20 universities in the UK. In the Advanced Level Foundation, about 25% were able to get AAA – grades good enough to progress onto Medicine in Aston University ^{progression to Medicine is subject to meeting additional interview and other requirements}.

Summer Study Tours

In addition to full-time academic programmes, Kings Education also offers a range of short-term English and holiday courses for school and college students, as well as adult learners! Shortlisted below are options in summer, which are based in traditional British boarding schools and Kings Education’s sixth form colleges, suitable for students aged 3 to 17:

• Summer Medical Programme at Kings Oxford
• Summer Course in Boarding School (Brighton College Prep School, Cheltenham College, Downside School)
• Parent & Child Programme

CATS College is an independent sixth form college with campuses in Cambridge, Canterbury and London. It provides GCSE, GCE A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB) and Britain’s first university foundation in the private sector, as well as specialist programmes for high achievers such as Medic Programme and Oxbridge Preparation Programme. Starting from 2017/18, CATS College London offers the NCUK International Year One, which enables students to progress onto year 2 of a degree in NCUK’s diverse network of 16 universities, including University of Leeds, Manchester, Sheffield and more. Quality of teaching and learning is ensured by a team of professional teachers. In 2018, about 62% of students were able to achieve A*-A grades in GCE A-levels, with 85% of them continuing their education in Russell Group universities.

University Foundation: Britain’s First and a Very Successful One!

CATS College was the first in the private sector to run an University Foundation, which was first taught more than 60 years ago. In 2010, the qualification was officially recognized by LSE and UCL, meaning that students can now apply to these two universities after completing their University Foundation in CATS College. Every year CATS College sees graduates getting into top universities, such as Durham, Warwick , Lancaster , Bath and the like. In the past three years (2014-2016), there are 24 graduates who successfully progressed to Durham University!

Student Case Sharing:
From Below Pass Grades to Durham University

In 2014, BU student Michael Luk completed a one-year University Foundation in CATS College, made astonishing progress in his academic work and was admitted by Durham University Business School.

Michael was not top in class back in his school in Hong Kong. Like many teenagers he sometimes cares more about his hobbies than school work and his grades once worried his parents. These improved a lot when Michael was transferred to CATS College after F.5 where he was encouraged to develop his hobbies alongside school work.

This year (2017) Michael will be graduating from Durham University. CATS College went to visit him at Durham and asked him to share his thoughts about the past four years he spent studying in the UK.

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Diploma) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

Lancaster University (6)

Lancaster University is now the 131^st in World University Ranking (QS 2019) and has been a popular option among Hong Kong students in the past few years. Lancaster is ranked Top 10 in Communication & Media, Social Work, Accounting & Finance, Business Studies, Biological Science, Sociology and more. As is located in the North West of England, Lancaster provides a very different experience from other city-based universities. Students would find the University a good destination of living and study with Lancaster’s award-wining accommodation, which has been named the Best University Halls for 5 consecutive years.

Durham University (7)

A member of the Russel Group, Durham University is now ranked the 74^th globally (QS 2019) and the 7^th in the UK. In REF 2014, 83% of its research was assessed as being of “world-leading” or “internationally excellent”. The University teaches a wide range of academic disciplines, in which 16 disciplines are within Top 5 in the UK. Like many traditional universities, Durham is strongest in Law, the humanities (such as Anthropology, Education, etc) and sciences (such as Physics and Chemistry) while Business Studies and Accounting & Finance are ranked the 15^th. Durham University is also one of the ten most targeted UK universities by leading recruiters in 2017/18. Notable alumni included Steve Easterbrook (CEO of McDonald’s), Cecil Chao (Hong Kong Billionaire) and Richard Adams (Founder of fairtrade organization Thraidcraft).

University of Surrey (23)

Ranked the 248^th globally (QS 2019), the University of Surrey is a leading educator in Hospitality & Tourism and Animal Science with a new veterinary school opened in the 2014/15 academic year. Most of its undergraduate programmes involve a year-long placement. With improving student satisfaction level, Surrey was named the 2016 University of the Year by the Times in praise of the good balance between research and teaching quality!

University of Sheffield (25)

Ranked the 75^th globally (QS 2019), the University of Sheffield excels in a wide range of academic disciplines. Architecture, Communication & Media, Town Planning & Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Biological Sciences are among Top 10 in the UK. Sheffield’s reputable engineering school now educates more than 4000 students and is a leading institution in systems engineering and smart materials globally. Notable alumni include five Nobel laureates, as well as Chung Sze-Yuen (Senior Unofficial Member of Legislative Council of Hong Kong) and Douglas Young (founder of lifestyle design and retail brand G.O.D.).

University of Sussex (41)

Ranked the 161^th globally (THE 2019), the University of Sussex excels in social sciences and the humanities. Anthropology, Philosophy, Accounting & Finance and Psychology are all within Top 20 in the UK. University of Sussex is special in terms of its diverse offerings of interdisciplinary programmes (such as Law & Politics, Psychology & Sociology), which is suitable for students with diverse interest. It’s also one of the few universities that offer both University Foundation and International Diploma for International Relations, as well as Communication & Media. Notable alumni include former president of South Africa and a number of Nobel laureates.

University of Strathclyde (44)

University of Strathclyde is ranked the 268^th globally (QS 2019) and offers one of the best Accounting and Finance programme in the UK. Its business school comes 39^th in the European Business School Ranking (FT 2018), and is one of the few business schools that is triple accredited by AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.

Strathclyde follows the Scottish education system, in which undergraduate qualifications are obtained in 4 years. The Business School and the Law School do offer 3-year intensive options! Students from the 3-Year LLB English Law will have study exchange opportunities, through which they can study one semester at City University of Hong Kong, in order to enjoy two extra subject exemptions in the PCLL Conversion Exams.

In addition to Business, University of Strathclyde is also a good choice for Architecture, Hospitality & Tourism as well as Engineering. Strathclyde’s School of Architecture is named one of Europe’s Top 50 architecture schools for 3 consecutive years by Domus, an Italian architecture and design magazine. The School of Enginnering, on the other hand, educates 4000 students coming from all around the world with as many as 40 choices of programmes, which include niche areas such as Aerospace and Naval Engineering.

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Diploma) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

University of Birmingham (14)

University of Birmingham is a historical and research-intensive university, which is now ranked the 79^th globally (QS 2019) and the 14^th in the UK. Birmingham enjoys very good reputation in the academia globally and is a founding member of the Russell Group, which symbolizes the highest standard of research and teaching in the UK. The University of Birmingham is ranked within Top 10 in the UK for 25 academic disciplines, in which many are within top 5 (including Hospitality & Tourism, Sports Science, Town Planning, Music, Philosophy, Chemical Engineering and more). Its alumni and staff include 11 Nobel laureates, as well as Geoffrey Ma, the Hong Kong Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal.

University of Nottingham (16)

University of Nottingham is ranked the 82^nd globally (QS 2019) and a member of the Russel Group. It has been cited twice in the last three years as “The Best University for Finding Graduate Recruits” by UK’s top employers. 51 academic disciplines are offered. 23 of them are ranked among top 10 in the UK, while Pharmacy, Social Work, Physiotherapy, Chemical Engineering, Physics & Astronomy and Animal Science are all ranked among top 5. The university also offers a 5-year MPharm programme, so that students do not have to worry about visa issues during their Pre-Registration Training for Pharmacists.

University of Glasgow (17)

Ranked the 69^th globally (QS 2019), University of Glasgow is one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world with over 560 years of history. As a member of the Russell Group, the university offers a wide range of academic disciplines and research, in which as many as 27 are ranked with Top 10 in the UK. Civil Engineering, Education, Law, Sociology, Accounting & Finance, Electrical & Electronic Engineering are some of its strongest areas. Notable alumni include economist Adam Smith, two former British Prime Ministers, a number of Nobel laureates and Regina Ip (former Secretary for Security of Hong Kong).

University of York (22)

University of York enjoys worldwide recognitions and is now ranked the 134^th globally (QS 2019) and the 22^nd in the UK. With strong focus on the humanities and sciences, York is a research-intensive university and a member of the Russell Group, which symbolises the highest research and academic standard in the UK. Overall research quality was ranked within top 15 in the UK by the latest research assessment exercise (REF 2014). Its Communication & Media, English, Psychology, Criminology, Biological Sciences and Chemistry are ranked among UK’s top 10.

In slightly over 50 years’ time since its establishment, alumni of University of York has became active players in British politics and include many notable people in areas such as literature, history, music, etc. Notable alumni from Asia include Yeung Sum (former LegCo member of Hong Kong) as well as Han Seung Soo (former Prime Minister of South Korea).

University of Essex (29)

As one of the best in Social Sciences, University of Essex is ranked the 29^th in the UK. Researches in Economics, Psychology, Politics and Philosophy are all highly rated by REF (2014). Respectively 93%, 90%, 87% and 85% of researches in these disciplines were rated World Leading and Internationally Excellent – a very impressive achievement for a university with only 50 years of history. A number of professors in the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Hong Kong are graduates of University of Essex. Other notable alumni include LegCo members LEUNG Yiu-chung and British film director Mike Leigh.

University of the West of England, Bristol (58)

Set in the creative city of Bristol, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) was formerly a polytechnic and was granted full university status in 1992. Employability remains at the heart of UWE Bristol’s education. The already tight relationships with employers continue to foster, which now include formal links with the BBC, Airbus, etc. Career support services of UWE Bristol were voted the best in the UK in 2014 while graduate employability comes as the 8^th in the UK with over 95% of graduates in employment within six months after graduation. UWE Bristol provides academic programmes in as many as 36 disciplines, among which Building & Surveying, Architecture, Town Planning and Art & Design are the strongest. UWE’s Bristol School of Animation enjoys a worldwide reputation. Chris Ford, creative director of PIXAR, is also one of UWE Bristol’s graduates!

Bournemouth University (78)

Set in the coastal resort town of Bournemouth, on the south coast of England, Bournemouth University is one of the polytechnics that were granted university status in 1992. The University is most famous for Computer Animation and Tourism & Hospitality Management.

Bournemouth University is a successful advocate of work placement, who is able to offer placement opportunities all honours degree students, and nearly 90% of its students have taken up the offer of placement in the past – one of the highest participation rate among UK universities. These have resulted in much improved employability. The retail management degree, for example, has achieved an impressive 100% employment rate for eight consecutive years!

National Centre for Computer Animation (NCCA), the animation school of Bournemouth University, is named the 13^th best animation school in the world by Animation Career Review. Aimed at training tomorrow’s technical directors in the animation field, the BA (Hons) Computer Animation Technical Arts involves a 50/50 mix of creative and technical training. Graduates of Bournemouth University have worked in films such as The Martian, Avator, Star Wars: The Force Awakens and more. More than 50 alumni have participated in the production of Oscar’s Best Visual Effect winner, Gravity.

University of Westminster (114)

University of Westminster is located in the heart of London and is formerly the Royal Polytechnic Institution, which was founded in 1838 and was Britain’s first polytechnic institution. The University was officially granted university status in 1992. Today it remains the choice of many in London for continuing education.

Journalism, Architecture and Art & Design are among its strongest subjects. It was ranked by the QS University Guide 2018 as the 6^th in the UK and the 40^th globally for Communication & Media Studies. The School of Architecture was also voted the 2^nd best by practising architects in Architects’ Journal. With its long history of teaching, alumni of University of Westminster is spread across different sectors, especially the architecture, art & design as well as the media – many of them are people awarded the Order of the British Empire for their contribution to their professions.

University of Brighton (123)

The seaside resort Brighton in the South of England is now more than a famous tourist destination, but also an important cluster of the creative industries near London. The University of Brighton has long enjoyed a reputation in Art and Design and is well-known for its Fashion Design, Architecture and Graphic Design. It has been constantly regarded as one of the top 50 fashion schools in the world by popular fashion website “Fashionista”. In recent years, other disciplines such as Sports Science and Hospitality & Tourism are enjoying a growing reputation. University of Brighton also offers foundation programmes that can lead to a degree in Podiatry, which suits students who are interested in medical related disciplines!

A member of the Russel Group, Durham University is now ranked the 74^th globally (QS 2019) and the 7^th in the UK. In REF 2014, 83% of its research was assessed as being of “world-leading” or “internationally excellent”. The University teaches a wide range of academic disciplines, in which 16 disciplines are within Top 5 in the UK. Like many traditional universities, Durham University is strongest in Law, the humanities (such as Anthropology, Education, etc) and sciences (such as Physics and Chemistry) while Business Studies and Accounting & Finance are ranked the 15^th. Durham University is also one of the ten most targeted UK universities by leading recruiters in 2017/18. Notable alumni included Steve Easterbrook (CEO of McDonald’s), Cecil Chao (Hong Kong Billionaire) and Richard Adams (Founder of fairtrade organization Thraidcraft).

Subjects of Strength (Subject Ranking)

Geography & Environmental Sciences (1), Music (1), Classics & Ancient History (2), English (2), Theology & Religious Studies (2), Education (3), History (3), Middle Eastern & African Studies (3), Russian & East European Languages (3), Archaeology & Forensic Science (4), Chemistry (4), East & South Asian Studies (4), Iberian Languages (4), Italian (4), Physics & Astronomy (4), Mathematics (5), French (6), Geology (7), German (7), Law (7), Computer Science (8), Sports Science (8), General Engineering (9), Philosophy (10), Criminology (11), Anthropology (12), Biological Sciences (13), Economics (14), Sociology (14), Accounting & Finance (15), Business Studies (15), Psychology (15), Politics (17)

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Year One) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

University of Dundee (27)

Globally ranked the 272^nd (QS 2019) and the 27^th in the UK, University of Dundee is ranked among the Top 20 in many academic disciplines, including Architecture, Art & Design, Civil Engineering, Education, Town Planning and many more!

While undergraduate degrees are usually four years in duration under the Scottish education system, many programmes in University of Dundee allow advanced entry into Year 2, if students get good enough grades. In addition to that, University of Dundee also offers a 3-year LLB law degree and a 5-year master’s in Architecture (ie. combining a 3-year undergraduate and a 2-year postgraduate degree in Architecture).

In Biomedical Science, University of Dundee runs an undergraduate degree in collaboration with National University of Singapore (NUS), in which students can spend up to 18 months studying in NUS – which is itself one of Asia’s finest universities!

Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD), University of Dundee is a century-old art school in Scotland. Ranked the 10^th in Art & Design, the College is one of the finest art schools in the UK, reputable for its excellence in teaching and academic research. DJCAD offers programmes in animation, fine art, graphics design and films, as well as some less common programmes such as interactive media and jewellery design. Alumni include Turner Prize winner Susan Philipsz who took home a Turner Prize in 2010.

De Montfort University (65)

Situated in the city centre of the midlands city Leicester, De Montfort University has a strong reputation in Art & Design as well as Architecture. Its School of Design offers a range of finely defined undergraduate programmes in footwear, fashion buying, furniture design, in addition to other niche programmes such as Arts & Festivals Management and some dance and performing arts programmes. De Montfort University is very successful in supporting graduate start-ups and is one of the 20 most successful universities in that aspect. The University was attributed by the Economist as a crucial factor for the city’s impressive growth in business, which is now the fastest growing one in the UK, together with London. Notable alumni include many British designers, artists and musicians, as well as world-famous architect Ken Shuttleworth, who penned the design of Hong Kong Chek Lap Kok Airport and the HSBC Tower.

Aspire Mentorship is a specialist mentorship programme set up by two UK-registered medical doctors with the aim to help students succeed in their medical and dental school applications.

Founders of Aspire Mentorship, Dr Alex Man and Dr Billy Leung, are both graduates from the medical school of Queen Mary, University of London and classmates of the same class. Dr Alex first graduated with a Biochemistry degree with first class honour in Queen Mary, University of London and subsequently applied to the MBBS as a graduate applicant. Dr Billy, on the other hand, started his MBBS in undergraduate. After which he took on dental and a few other medical specialist qualifications. He now works in John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford.

Students joining the two-year mentorship programme will be supported by Dr Alex and Dr Billy individually throughout their sixth form years. Each mentorship programme will be drawn up for each students, depending on their education background and their strength and weakness. So each of them will look a little bit different, but will cover the five essential steps of a medical school application, including university selection, work experience and observership placement, entrance exam preparation (ie. UKCAT, BMAT, etc), personal statement coaching, and interview skills.

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Diploma) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

Lancaster University (6)

Lancaster University is now the 131^st in World University Ranking (QS 2019) and has been a popular option among Hong Kong students in the past few years. Lancaster is ranked Top 10 in Communication & Media, Social Work, Accounting & Finance, Business Studies, Biological Science, Sociology and more. As is located in the North West of England, Lancaster provides a very different experience from other city-based universities. Students would find the University a good destination of living and study with Lancaster’s award-wining accommodation, which has been named the Best University Halls for 5 consecutive years.

Durham University (7)

A member of the Russel Group, Durham University is now ranked the 74^th globally (QS 2019) and the 7^th in the UK. In REF 2014, 83% of its research was assessed as being of “world-leading” or “internationally excellent”. The University teaches a wide range of academic disciplines, in which 16 disciplines are within Top 5 in the UK. Like many traditional universities, Durham is strongest in Law, the humanities (such as Anthropology, Education, etc) and sciences (such as Physics and Chemistry) while Business Studies and Accounting & Finance are ranked the 15^th. Durham University is also one of the ten most targeted UK universities by leading recruiters in 2017/18. Notable alumni included Steve Easterbrook (CEO of McDonald’s), Cecil Chao (Hong Kong Billionaire) and Richard Adams (Founder of fairtrade organization Thraidcraft).

University of Surrey (23)

Ranked the 248^th globally (QS 2019), the University of Surrey is a leading educator in Hospitality & Tourism and Animal Science with a new veterinary school opened in the 2014/15 academic year. Most of its undergraduate programmes involve a year-long placement. With improving student satisfaction level, Surrey was named the 2016 University of the Year by the Times in praise of the good balance between research and teaching quality!

University of Sheffield (25)

Ranked the 75^th globally (QS 2019), the University of Sheffield excels in a wide range of academic disciplines. Architecture, Communication & Media, Town Planning & Landscape Architecture, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering and Biological Sciences are among Top 10 in the UK. Sheffield’s reputable engineering school now educates more than 4000 students and is a leading institution in systems engineering and smart materials globally. Notable alumni include five Nobel laureates, as well as Chung Sze-Yuen (Senior Unofficial Member of Legislative Council of Hong Kong) and Douglas Young (founder of lifestyle design and retail brand G.O.D.).

University of Sussex (41)

Ranked the 161^th globally (THE 2019), the University of Sussex excels in social sciences and the humanities. Anthropology, Philosophy, Accounting & Finance and Psychology are all within Top 20 in the UK. University of Sussex is special in terms of its diverse offerings of interdisciplinary programmes (such as Law & Politics, Psychology & Sociology), which is suitable for students with diverse interest. It’s also one of the few universities that offer both University Foundation and International Diploma for International Relations, as well as Communication & Media. Notable alumni include former president of South Africa and a number of Nobel laureates.

University of Strathclyde (44)

University of Strathclyde is ranked the 268^th globally (QS 2019) and offers one of the best Accounting and Finance programme in the UK. Its business school comes 39^th in the European Business School Ranking (FT 2018), and is one of the few business schools that is triple accredited by AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.

Strathclyde follows the Scottish education system, in which undergraduate qualifications are obtained in 4 years. The Business School and the Law School do offer 3-year intensive options! Students from the 3-Year LLB English Law will have study exchange opportunities, through which they can study one semester at City University of Hong Kong, in order to enjoy two extra subject exemptions in the PCLL Conversion Exams.

In addition to Business, University of Strathclyde is also a good choice for Architecture, Hospitality & Tourism as well as Engineering. Strathclyde’s School of Architecture is named one of Europe’s Top 50 architecture schools for 3 consecutive years by Domus, an Italian architecture and design magazine. The School of Enginnering, on the other hand, educates 4000 students coming from all around the world with as many as 40 choices of programmes, which include niche areas such as Aerospace and Naval Engineering.

Pathway programmes provided by ONCampus can lead to undergraduate degrees in colleges of University of London as well as modern universities such as Coventry! University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Year One) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

These programmes are suitable for HKDSE graduates, while some of them also accept applications from F.5 students.

In the academic year of 2013/14, ONCampus London first introduced the University of London International Foundation Programme in their designated study centre in Birkbeck, University of London. The Programme provides a more challenging curriculum that comes with more diverse progression routes for students aspiring to top universities. With specially written study materials by University of London, students will study four academic subjects (normally students study three subjects in a foundation programme) alongside English language and personal development programmes – a total of 28 teaching hours per week. Upon completion, students will be eligible to apply to a range of UK universities, including top universities such as London School of Economics & Political Science (LSE), Bristol, Durham, Manchester, Nottingham and more!

University of Reading (40)

University of Reading is ranked the 195^th globally (QS 2019) and the 40^th in the UK. Its business school (Hanley Business School) comes 32^nd in the European Business School Ranking (FT 2018). The University offers collaborative Accounting degrees with PwC – one of the Big 4 accounting firms in the world. Entry requirement is high, but students from the programmes will enjoy guaranteed work placements with PwC, and if they achieve a 2:1 and impress on their work placements they will be likely to be offered a permanent job with PwC – which is a very valuable option for students who aspire to become an accountant, especially those who want to pursue a career in the UK after graduation! In addition to applying directly for year one, students can now progress onto the degree via a university foundation.

Building & Surveying, Film Studies, Design and Meteorology are also among the university’s most reputable disciplines. Not only is University of Reading the first UK university to offer Typography and Film Studies, its master’s programmes in Typography are considered one of the best in the world. Many contemporary font designs of our age are created by graduates from University of Reading – these include Calibri (created by Luc(as) de Groot), Comic Sans (created by Vincent Connare) and many more!

Coventry University (46)

Coventry University has been named “Modern University of the Year” by Times in three consecutive years (2014-2016). With high student satisfaction rating and employment rate, Coventry has become one of the most remarkable post-1992 universities, with significant improvements in major university league tables. Communication & Media, Art & Design and Physiotherapy are the most popular areas of study. With over 160 years of history, the Coventry School of Art & Design offers specialist programmes in diverse areas such as Automotive and Transport Design, Interior Design, Product Design.

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) (105)

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is one of the largest universities in the UK that provides a wide range of subject options. In 2014/15, the University started its medicine programme (MBBS), after the success in establishing its dentistry programme. The MBBS programme is tailored for international students and provides placement opportunities in the NHS as well as private clinics. UCLan is known for its outstanding support to its students and a top player in nurturing graduate start-ups. With the good support from the University, over 70% of these graduate start-ups were able to survive the first two difficult years of operation.

University Pathway Programmes (Foundation & International Diploma) are one-year programmes that allow students to progress onto year 1 and year 2 of an undergraduate programme in the UK. Many of these programmes are taught in dedicated teaching centres within university campuses and provide “guaranteed progression” to an undergraduate degree upon achieving the required grades in internal exams and coursework assessment.

University of Birmingham (14)

University of Birmingham is a historical and research-intensive university, which is now ranked the 79^th globally (QS 2019) and the 14^th in the UK. Birmingham enjoys very good reputation in the academia globally and is a founding member of the Russell Group, which symbolizes the highest standard of research and teaching in the UK. The University of Birmingham is ranked within Top 10 in the UK for 25 academic disciplines, in which many are within top 5 (including Hospitality & Tourism, Sports Science, Town Planning, Music, Philosophy, Chemical Engineering and more). Its alumni and staff include 11 Nobel laureates, as well as Geoffrey Ma, the Hong Kong Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal.

University of Nottingham (16)

University of Nottingham is ranked the 82^nd globally (QS 2019) and a member of the Russel Group. It has been cited twice in the last three years as “The Best University for Finding Graduate Recruits” by UK’s top employers. 51 academic disciplines are offered. 23 of them are ranked among top 10 in the UK, while Pharmacy, Social Work, Physiotherapy, Chemical Engineering, Physics & Astronomy and Animal Science are all ranked among top 5. The university also offers a 5-year MPharm programme, so that students do not have to worry about visa issues during their Pre-Registration Training for Pharmacists.

University of Glasgow (17)

Ranked the 69^th globally (QS 2019), University of Glasgow is one of the oldest universities in the English-speaking world with over 560 years of history. As a member of the Russell Group, the university offers a wide range of academic disciplines and research, in which as many as 27 are ranked with Top 10 in the UK. Civil Engineering, Education, Law, Sociology, Accounting & Finance, Electrical & Electronic Engineering are some of its strongest areas. Notable alumni include economist Adam Smith, two former British Prime Ministers, a number of Nobel laureates and Regina Ip (former Secretary for Security of Hong Kong).

University of York (22)

University of York enjoys worldwide recognitions and is now ranked the 134^th globally (QS 2019) and the 22^nd in the UK. With strong focus on the humanities and sciences, York is a research-intensive university and a member of the Russell Group, which symbolises the highest research and academic standard in the UK. Overall research quality was ranked within top 15 in the UK by the latest research assessment exercise (REF 2014). Its Communication & Media, English, Psychology, Criminology, Biological Sciences and Chemistry are ranked among UK’s top 10.

In slightly over 50 years’ time since its establishment, alumni of University of York has became active players in British politics and include many notable people in areas such as literature, history, music, etc. Notable alumni from Asia include Yeung Sum (former LegCo member of Hong Kong) as well as Han Seung Soo (former Prime Minister of South Korea).

University of Essex (29)

As one of the best in Social Sciences, University of Essex is ranked the 29^th in the UK. Researches in Economics, Psychology, Politics and Philosophy are all highly rated by REF (2014). Respectively 93%, 90%, 87% and 85% of researches in these disciplines were rated World Leading and Internationally Excellent – a very impressive achievement for a university with only 50 years of history. A number of professors in the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Hong Kong are graduates of University of Essex. Other notable alumni include LegCo members LEUNG Yiu-chung and British film director Mike Leigh.

University of the West of England, Bristol (58)

Set in the creative city of Bristol, University of the West of England (UWE Bristol) was formerly a polytechnic and was granted full university status in 1992. Employability remains at the heart of UWE Bristol’s education. The already tight relationships with employers continue to foster, which now include formal links with the BBC, Airbus, etc. Career support services of UWE Bristol were voted the best in the UK in 2014 while graduate employability comes as the 8^th in the UK with over 95% of graduates in employment within six months after graduation. UWE Bristol provides academic programmes in as many as 36 disciplines, among which Building & Surveying, Architecture, Town Planning and Art & Design are the strongest. UWE’s Bristol School of Animation enjoys a worldwide reputation. Chris Ford, creative director of PIXAR, is also one of UWE Bristol’s graduates!

Bournemouth University (78)

Set in the coastal resort town of Bournemouth, on the south coast of England, Bournemouth University is one of the polytechnics that were granted university status in 1992. The University is most famous for Computer Animation and Tourism & Hospitality Management.

Bournemouth University is a successful advocate of work placement, who is able to offer placement opportunities all honours degree students, and nearly 90% of its students have taken up the offer of placement in the past – one of the highest participation rate among UK universities. These have resulted in much improved employability. The retail management degree, for example, has achieved an impressive 100% employment rate for eight consecutive years!

National Centre for Computer Animation (NCCA), the animation school of Bournemouth University, is named the 13^th best animation school in the world by Animation Career Review. Aimed at training tomorrow’s technical directors in the animation field, the BA (Hons) Computer Animation Technical Arts involves a 50/50 mix of creative and technical training. Graduates of Bournemouth University have worked in films such as The Martian, Avator, Star Wars: The Force Awakens and more. More than 50 alumni have participated in the production of Oscar’s Best Visual Effect winner, Gravity.

University of Westminster (114)

University of Westminster is located in the heart of London and is formerly the Royal Polytechnic Institution, which was founded in 1838 and was Britain’s first polytechnic institution. The University was officially granted university status in 1992. Today it remains the choice of many in London for continuing education.

Journalism, Architecture and Art & Design are among its strongest subjects. It was ranked by the QS University Guide 2018 as the 6^th in the UK and the 40^th globally for Communication & Media Studies. The School of Architecture was also voted the 2^nd best by practising architects in Architects’ Journal. With its long history of teaching, alumni of University of Westminster is spread across different sectors, especially the architecture, art & design as well as the media – many of them are people awarded the Order of the British Empire for their contribution to their professions.

University of Brighton (123)

The seaside resort Brighton in the South of England is now more than a famous tourist destination, but also an important cluster of the creative industries near London. The University of Brighton has long enjoyed a reputation in Art and Design and is well-known for its Fashion Design, Architecture and Graphic Design. It has been constantly regarded as one of the top 50 fashion schools in the world by popular fashion website “Fashionista”. In recent years, other disciplines such as Sports Science and Hospitality & Tourism are enjoying a growing reputation. University of Brighton also offers foundation programmes that can lead to a degree in Podiatry, which suits students who are interested in medical related disciplines!

A member of the Russel Group, Durham University is now ranked the 74^th globally (QS 2019) and the 7^th in the UK. In REF 2014, 83% of its research was assessed as being of “world-leading” or “internationally excellent”. The University teaches a wide range of academic disciplines, in which 16 disciplines are within Top 5 in the UK. Like many traditional universities, Durham University is strongest in Law, the humanities (such as Anthropology, Education, etc) and sciences (such as Physics and Chemistry) while Business Studies and Accounting & Finance are ranked the 15^th. Durham University is also one of the ten most targeted UK universities by leading recruiters in 2017/18. Notable alumni included Steve Easterbrook (CEO of McDonald’s), Cecil Chao (Hong Kong Billionaire) and Richard Adams (Founder of fairtrade organization Thraidcraft).

Subjects of Strength (Subject Ranking)

Geography & Environmental Sciences (1), Music (1), Classics & Ancient History (2), English (2), Theology & Religious Studies (2), Education (3), History (3), Middle Eastern & African Studies (3), Russian & East European Languages (3), Archaeology & Forensic Science (4), Chemistry (4), East & South Asian Studies (4), Iberian Languages (4), Italian (4), Physics & Astronomy (4), Mathematics (5), French (6), Geology (7), German (7), Law (7), Computer Science (8), Sports Science (8), General Engineering (9), Philosophy (10), Criminology (11), Anthropology (12), Biological Sciences (13), Economics (14), Sociology (14), Accounting & Finance (15), Business Studies (15), Psychology (15), Politics (17)

University for Creative Arts (UCA) is a specialist art university in the UK, which teaches in diverse areas of visual arts (such as Animation, Architecture, Fashion Design, Film Production, Interior Design, Photography and more), with new ventures into new media such as Computer Games Design, Creative Coding & Technology.

University for Creative Arts (UCA) has five campuses located in hugely secure cities in the south of England. With London within reach of a 30- to 60-minute train ride, students enjoy the great exposure to exhibitions and galleries in London, without the burden of London’s cost of living.

Granted full university status in 2008, University for Creative Arts (UCA) was formed with a merger between five historical art schools with over 160 years of teaching experience. Over the years UCA graduates have worked in different sectors of the creative industries and have achieved international acclaim. They include a number of Oscar-winning animators, film director Gareth Edwards, illustrator Martin Handford, animation artist Mark Baker, jewellery designer Stephen Webster, as well as fashion designer Karen Millen.

Art & Design Foundation (Suitable for F.5 and HKDSE Graduates)

The Art & Design Foundation programmes in University for Creative Arts (UCA) offer a one-year and a two-year option, which is suitable for HKDSE and F.5 graduates respectively. With its diverse provision in visual arts, the Art & Design Foundation in University for Creative Arts (UCA) can provide the flexibility best for students, who have a strong interest in visual arts, but not 100% sure which specialism they’d like to focus on!

Areas of Strength (Subject Ranking)

Architecture (30), Art & Design (34), Drama, Dance & Cinematics (52), Communication & Media Studies (64)

Brighton College is a large-scale and highly reputable boarding school in the south of England. The College has continued to perform exceptionally well in public exams in many years, with more than 93% of A-levels students getting A*-B since 2008. In 2018, Brighton College is ranked the 8^th for performance in GCE A-levels examinations among other independent schools.

The Independent Schools Inspectorate (ISI) gave the College a perfect score in every single category and awarded the College a rare ‘Exceptional’ accolade for Achievements and Learning. It is highly competitive among both local and Hong Kong elite students that applications must be submitted at least one year earlier.

Application & Exam Arrangement

Students who are interested in enrolling in the September 2020 intake must submit a school report to Brighton College for preliminary assessment. Eligible students will be informed for further assessments and are required to complete the registration on or before the deadline (6/9, Friday).

What’s so good about studying in the UK? In addition to small class-size, excellent provision of facilities and more flexible teaching methods, what makes the As in UK student’s report cards? What options do students from the new 334 education system have, to continue their studies in the UK? What makes up the best preparation for progression to the finest universities? How does British boarding school experience benefit students when they apply to universities in Hong Kong? In the seminar, our education consultants will answer all these questions by sharing their own experience in the UK. The seminar is suitable for parents of primary and secondary school students and students themselves, who are interested in studying in the UK.

Content Highlights

• The Education Systems: In what circumstances can Hong Kong students progress to the next year group in the UK? In which year groups does it offer more school options?
• The Boarding School Life: What time is lights out time? What weekend activities are available for boarders? What are these unique school holidays in boarding schools?
• The Public Exams: How do GCSE and A-levels subject choices affect your options in university? What subject combination may bring extra advantages to Hong Kong students?
• GCSE & A-levels Reform: What were being reformed and when? Are the two exams more difficult now than before?
• A brief analysis of Non-Jupas admission data
• The Application Procedures: What should you consider when selecting a boarding school? What criteria are used when boarding schools select students?
• Is it necessary to sit boarding school entrance exams (such as BUSSATs & UKiSet) in advance?
  

Students attending the seminar can take home a free copy of The Metropolis UK Boarding School Guide by giving a Facebook Like to our Facebook page.

Located in the Scottish coastal town of Musselburgh (just 6 minutes from Edinburgh by train), Queen Margaret University follows the Scottish education system, providing 4-year undergraduate programmes. With a history that can be traced back to 1875, the University was officially granted university status in 2007 and is particularly strong in performing arts and medical related subjects. Provision in the area in the broadest among Scottish universities, which includes Dietetics, Podiatry, Radiography, Physiotherapy, Art Therapy, Music Therapy and more!

Areas of Strength (Subject Ranking)

Drama, Dance & Cinematics (11), Nursing (12), Radiography (15), Physiotherapy (28), Food Science (30), Hospitality, Leisure & Tourism (33), Anatomy & Physiology (39), Pharmacology & Pharmacy (39), Sociology (39), Communication & Media Studies (51), Business Studies (59)

Ranked the 158^th globally (QS 2019) and the 13^th in the UK, the University of Bath has earned excellent reputation in slightly over 50 years since it establishment. In the 26 different academic disciplines that the University teaches, 15 of them are ranked among top 10 in the UK. University of Bath is not only home to Britain’s number one Architecture and Sports Science degrees, its Psychology, Sociology, Social Policy, Business Studies, Accounting & Finance, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering degrees are all among top 5 in the UK!

The BSc (Hons) Architecture is a 4-year programme with two half-year placements, which is especially beneficial to international students as their placement arrangement won’t be limited by visa issues, making the programme a very good choice for students who aim to gain professional experience in the UK!

In Social Science, the University of Bath runs a broad-learning BSc (Hons) Social Sciences alongside more traditional stand-alone degrees in Sociology, Criminology and Social Policy. BSc (Hons) Social Sciences allow students to mix and match over half of its teaching modules from a wide range of electives across different disciplines in social sciences. Students will therefore to be able to tailor a degree according to their academic interest, as they gain deeper knowledge in the discipline!

Subjects of Strength (Subject Ranking)

Architecture (1), Sports Science (1), Psychology (2), Sociology (2), Business Studies (3), Social Policy (3), Accounting and Finance (4), Chemical Engineering (4), Civil Engineering (4), Mechanical Engineering (5), Economics (7), Social Work (7), Aeronautical and Manufacturing (9), Computer Science (9), Pharmacy & Pharmacology (10), Electrical and Electronic Engineering (12), Physics and Astronomy (12), Italian (14), Politics (14), Russian (16), Chemistry (17), Biological Sciences (18), Mathematics (20), German (22), Iberian Languages (22), French (23)

Globally ranked the 272^nd (QS 2019) and the 27^th in the UK, University of Dundee is ranked among the Top 20 in many academic disciplines, including Architecture, Art & Design, Civil Engineering, Education, Town Planning and many more!

While undergraduate degrees are usually four years in duration under the Scottish education system, many programmes in University of Dundee allow advanced entry into Year 2, if students get good enough grades. In addition to that, University of Dundee also offers a 3-year LLB law degree and a 5-year master’s in Architecture (ie. combining a 3-year undergraduate and a 2-year postgraduate degree in Architecture).

In Biomedical Science, University of Dundee runs an undergraduate degree in collaboration with National University of Singapore (NUS), in which students can spend up to 18 months studying in NUS – which is itself one of Asia’s finest universities!

Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD)

Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design (DJCAD), University of Dundee is a century-old art school in Scotland. Ranked the 10^th in Art & Design, the College is one of the finest art schools in the UK, reputable for its excellence in teaching and academic research. DJCAD offers programmes in animation, fine art, graphics design and films, as well as some less common programmes such as interactive media and jewellery design. Alumni include Turner Prize winner Susan Philipsz who took home a Turner Prize in 2010.

Subjects of strength (Subject Ranking)

Archaeology & Forensic Science (2), Dentistry (3), Biological Sciences (4), Anatomy & Physiology (5), Social Work (6), Education (8), Law (8), Art & Design (10), Medical Related (10), Medicine (10), Town & Country Planning & Landscape Architecture (16), Architecture (17), Pharmacology & Pharmacy (18), Civil Engineering (20), Computer Science (20), Mathematics (22), English (23), History (23), Geography & Environmental Sciences (25), Mechanical Engineering (29), Nursing (32), Politics (33), Accounting & Finance (36)

Located in central Norwich, East of England, Norwich University of the Arts was granted university status in 2012 and is now one of UK’s seven specialist art universities. While traditionally known for Fine Art, the University is also running forward-looking digital media programmes on VFX, User Experience Design, Games Art and Design:

Employability is at the heart of teaching in Norwich University of the Arts, and they are recognized by industry for providing exceptional training for work-ready graduates. Starting from Year 2 of an undergraduate degree, students will have the opportunities for work placement and work on industry live briefs. They are also encouraged to submit their work to open competitions.

In the past Norwich University of the Arts wasn’t as active in international recruitment as other UK universities. The majority of its students are British and only 10% come from overseas. Notable alumni include Stuart Craig (Production Designer on Harry Potter film series), Brian Bolland (Graphic Novel Artist on Batman comics) and Keith Chapman (Creator of Bob the Builder).

What’s so good about studying in the UK? In addition to small class-size, excellent provision of facilities and more flexible teaching methods, what makes the As in UK student’s report cards? What options do students from the new 334 education system have, to continue their studies in the UK? What makes up the best preparation for progression to the finest universities? How does British boarding school experience benefit students when they apply to universities in Hong Kong? In the seminar, our education consultants will answer all these questions by sharing their own experience in the UK. The seminar is suitable for parents of primary and secondary school students and students themselves, who are interested in studying in the UK.

Content Highlights

• The Education Systems: In what circumstances can Hong Kong students progress to the next year group in the UK? In which year groups does it offer more school options?
• The Boarding School Life: What time is lights out time? What weekend activities are available for boarders? What are these unique school holidays in boarding schools?
• The Public Exams: How do GCSE and A-levels subject choices affect your options in university? What subject combination may bring extra advantages to Hong Kong students?
• GCSE & A-levels Reform: What were being reformed and when? Are the two exams more difficult now than before?
• A brief analysis of Non-Jupas admission data
• The Application Procedures: What should you consider when selecting a boarding school? What criteria are used when boarding schools select students?
• Is it necessary to sit boarding school entrance exams (such as BUSSATs & UKiSet) in advance?
  

Students attending the seminar can take home a free copy of The Metropolis UK Boarding School Guide by giving a Facebook Like to our Facebook page.

Cheltenham College is an all-through boarding school in the South West of England, reputable for its excellent academic results. The College is very popular among local families in the region. Of the 650 students in the senior school, over 80% come from local families in the area and one third of them progressed from Cheltenham College prep school. The College is highly rated in the latest inspection report (ISI) and is awarded the highest “Excellent” rating in all nine areas of inspections, including quality of teaching, boarding provision and administration. Public exam results have been consistently outstanding, with A*-B rates in GCE A-levels from 74% to 81% in the past seven years (2012-2018). 6 pupils of the 2017 class continued their education in Oxbridge.

Details of Event

In the Seminar, admissions representative from University of Law will introduce their postgraduate courses in law, in order to help students and parents understand how students can qualify as a lawyer in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom, and explain how different courses may be better for students in different career stages.

• An overview of postgraduate courses in Law:

  Admission representative from University of Law will provide details about the following postgraduate courses, covering areas such as course structure, entry requirements, tuition fees, study locations and the steps it takes after the course to qualify as a lawyer.

• Yes – it’s possible for a non-law degree graduate to become a lawyer! Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and Master of Arts in Law (MA Law)
  Tailored for graduates with a non-law degree, the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) covers essential core modules in law, enabling non-law graduates to pursue professional qualifications to qualify as a lawyer. After the GDL, graduates can follow the British training route and progress onto a Legal Practice Course (LPC) or a Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), and register as a UK lawyer after completing a training contract with a law firm; if they’d like to follow Hong Kong’s training route, graduates can do so as they will be eligible to apply to the PCLL after passing PCLL Conversion Exams.
• Are you a law degree graduate, looking to train as a lawyer in the UK? Legal Practice Course (LPC) and Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC)

  The UK’s equivalent to the PCLL in Hong Kong, LPC and BPTC are the essential postgraduate training courses for UK’s solicitors and barristers respectively. After the LPC and BPTC, graduates have to complete a training contract with a law firm, before they can register as a UK lawyer. How can students increase their chances in securing a training contract? Can students undertake their training contract in Hong Kong? Admissions representative from University of Law will answer these and other frequently asked questions in the talk!

• Coming back to Hong Kong to practise: Can a UK lawyer practise law in Hong Kong?
  After a long and demanding journey to qualify as a UK lawyer, will students be able to practise as a lawyer in Hong Kong? What does it take to become a Hong Kong lawyer? Will the status as a UK lawyer offer advantages in a legal career in Hong Kong?
• How does a Distance Learning course work? How much time per week does it usually require, for a working adult taking a part-time distance learning course?
  The GDL, LPC and LLB in University of Law all offer a distance learning mode of study (available as a full-time and part-time course). How does the arrangement work in practice, in terms of class delivery, learning resources, exams and assessment? How much time should a working adult taking a part-time course expect to devote to the their studies? Is there any extra support from the University for distance learning students?
• Student story sharing: Becoming a lawyer is only one of many career outcomes!
  In the past, many students doing a postgraduate course with University of Law (especially part-time students doing a distance learning course) aren’t really looking for a career change into the legal profession. Instead many find that good knowledge in law helps advance their career in other industries! In this section, admissions representative from University of Law will share some of these student stories, to show that becoming a lawyer is only one of many career outcomes!

University Profile: University of Law

Founded in 1876, University of Law has an excellent and unique reputation in professional legal training in the UK. In its early years, it was the lawyer training school of the Law Society of England and Wales, and later became the first private university that was granted degree-awarding power by the UK government! Today, University of Law is one of the most established law schools in the UK and an education partner of the leading global law firm Linklaters, providing a bespoke master’s degree for Linklaters.

Major Law Qualifications in University of Law ^{Mode of Study: Campus-based in the UK, or Distance Learning}

• POSTGRADUATE – for Graduates with a Non-Law Degree: Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) ^{a full-time course lasts 1 year, also available as a part-time distance learning course}
• POSTGRADUATE – for Graduates with a Non-Law Degree: Master of Arts in Law (MA Law) ^{a full-time course lasts 1 year, also available as a part-time distance learning course}
• POSTGRADUATE – for Graduates with a Law Degree to train as a Solicitor: Legal Practice Course (LPC) ^{a full-time course lasts 1 year, also available as a part-time distance learning course}
• POSTGRADUATE – for Graduates with a Law Degree to train as a Barrister: Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) ^{a full-time course lasts 1 year}
• UNDERGRADUATE: Bachelor in Laws (LLB) ^{a full-time course lasts 2-3 years, also available as a part-time distance learning course}

A Global Alumni Network: The Postgraduate Training Choice of Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London

After obtaining their bachelor’s degrees in Law from a traditional university, many students would continue their postgraduate training in University of Law. The alumni network of University of Law now comprises over 64,000 graduates from around the world, including many from Asian regions such as Hong Kong and Malaysia. In the UK, they include Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, who completed his LPC in University of Law before embarking on his journey as a human rights lawyer and later a successful career in politics.

Campus-based Study Locations

University of Law has campuses in major cities in the UK, such as London, Birmingham, Bristol, Leeds and Manchester. In recent years, University of Law has also formed partnership with University of Reading, University of Exeter and University of Liverpool, to deliver its GDL and LPC on-campus, so that students can enjoy the the range of campus facilities and campus life in a traditional university campus.

Undergraduate Year One in Top 30 UK universities normally require 544 to 555 in HKDSE, with subject-specific requirement depending on your choices of programmes. If students fall short of such requirement, they can progress through International Year One or University Foundation Courses. These programmes accept entry at 433 to 322 in HKDSE and enable qualified students to progress onto Year 2 and Year 1 of an undergraduate programme in Top 30 UK universities respectively. Students aiming for top universities and highly-competitive subjects such as medicine and actuarial sciences, however, will benefit from the 1-Year A-levels which also allows them to apply to universities in Hong Kong through the Non-Jupas route.

In the seminar, our education consultants will introduce these four options for HKDSE students. Content includes university options, subject options, entry requirements, plus the procedures and important dates of UCAS.

Click to see our university network: Students can apply to over 125 universities and specialist institutions in our university network.

Content Highlights

• How does UCAS work? What are the important dates?
• How to make best use of the five application quotas in your UCAS application?
• Is it possible to have the sixth and the seventh quota?
• Tips on writing a winning personal statement.
• Options of university and academic disciplines in pathway programmes.
• University Foundation Courses that accept applications from F.5 students.
• The option of One-Year A-levels and a brief analysis of Non-Jupas admission data.

Caterham School is well known for its well mannered and disciplined students as well as its outstanding academic results. For years it has been one of the top options of students coming from top schools in Hong Kong. In 2018, Caterham School is ranked the 70^th for performance in GCE A-levels examinations. With its advantageous, suburban location in South London, it is only 40 minutes away from Heathrow Airport. A*-B rates in GCE A-levels have been over 85% for 10 consecutive years since 2009, with four years at 90% or above. The majority of teachers live within the school campus and in neighbouring communities, making it possible to provide immediate assistance to any case of emergency.

Application & Exam Arrangement

Students who are interested in enrolling in the September 2020 intake must submit their applications before the closing dates in accordance to their year groups. Eligible applicants will be invited to an admission interview after passing the entrance exams.

• Year 9 & Year 10: Applications close on 11/10 (Friday)
• Year 12: Applications close on 1/11 (Friday)

City of London Freemen’s School is a boarding school run by the City of London Corporation. With excellent track records of academic results, the School is a popular choice among local families. In the past ten years (2009-2018), City of London Freemen’s School saw over 83% of its students getting A*-B grades in GCE A-levels. In 2018, ten graduates were successful with their application to University of Oxford and University of Cambridge. Notable alumni include British actor Andrew Garfield (known for his role playing Spider-Man) and Joe Strummer (front-man of the British band the Clash). Currently over 90% of students in City of London Freemen’s School are local day students and boarding places for international students are very limited. Students are therefore recommended to apply one year in advance.

Application & Exam Arrangement

Students who are interested in enrolling in the September 2020 intake must submit their applications before the deadline (15/10, Tuesday). Eligible applicants will be invited to an admission interview after passing the entrance exams.

Caterham School is well known for its well mannered and disciplined students as well as its outstanding academic results. For years it has been one of the top options of students coming from top schools in Hong Kong. In 2018, Caterham School is ranked the 70^th for performance in GCE A-levels examinations. With its advantageous, suburban location in South London, it is only 40 minutes away from Heathrow Airport. A*-B rates in GCE A-levels have been over 85% for 10 consecutive years since 2009, with four years at 90% or above. The majority of teachers live within the school campus and in neighbouring communities, making it possible to provide immediate assistance to any case of emergency.

Application & Exam Arrangement

Students who are interested in enrolling in the September 2020 intake must submit their applications before the closing dates in accordance to their year groups. Eligible applicants will be invited to an admission interview after passing the entrance exams.

• Year 9 & Year 10: Applications close on 11/10 (Friday)
• Year 12: Applications close on 1/11 (Friday)