Programmes - HKU SPACE Community College
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Mathematics & Science Mathematics & Science

Associate of Science

Earth and Environmental Sciences

Programme Code: AD 118 3416 6338 2305 5315 asc@hkuspace.hku.hk
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QF Level: 4
QR Registration No.: 12/000596/4
Registration Validity Period:  27/04/2012 to ongoing
 

Application Code 報名編號 : AD118

Every aspect of our life is touched, and sometimes radically changed, by developments in Sciences. Scientists are continually searching for ways to make advancements in technology to improve life. Living in an ever-changing world, there is always a need for new technologies to be developed by scientists working collaboratively in Life Sciences, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Physics and Statistics. In this post genome-decoding world, there is always a need for new technologies. This programme is offered in collaboration with The University of Hong Kong to provide students a systematic way of training and a firm foundation in sciences.

Programme Aims & Features

This programme will provide students with a solid foundation in different aspects of sciences, and prepare them for entrance into a degree-granting programme at university, and provide them with a sound base for a future career. This programme consists of SIX main areas of study Biological Science, Chemistry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Environmental Management, Physics and Statistics. The first year aims at strengthening students’ background in foundation sciences. The second year is a university Year 2 (of a 4-year curriculum) programme, runs in collaboration with the Science Faculty of the University of Hong Kong, and covers much of the core syllabus taken by the second-year undergraduates at HKU and other universities. Majority of the Year 2 specialism courses are co-offered with HKU and most laboratory sessions are conducted at HKU.

Students doing the Statistics Theme, after completion, can apply for accreditation from the Hong Kong Statistical Society. For details, please visit: http://www.hkss.org.hk.

 

Opportunities for Further Studies

2023 Overall Progression Rate: 84%
UGC-funded Bachelor’s Degree Programmes: 88%

Some of our graduates/students are admitted to UGC-funded degree programmes every year. The list below shows the programmes that our graduates/students of recent years have articulated to*:

The University of Hong Kong
BA
BEd and BSc (Double Degree)
BEng
BNurs
BSc
BSc Astronomy
BSc Biochemistry
BSc Biological Sciences
BSc Chemistry
BSc Decision Analytics
BSc Earth System Science
BSc Ecology and Biodiversity
BSc Environmental Science
BSc Food and Nutritional Science
BSc Geology
BSc Mathematics
BSc Molecular Biology and Biotechnology
BSc Physics
BSc Risk Management
BSc Statistics


The Chinese University of Hong Kong
BEng
BEng Biomedical Engineering
BEng Information Engineering
BNurs
BSc
BSc Community Health Practice
BSc Earth System Science
BSc Natural Sciences
BSc Public Health
Bsc Risk Management Science
BSocSc Geography and Resource Management

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
BEng
BEng Chemical & Environmental Engineering
BEng Chemical Engineering
BEng Civil Engineering
BSc
BSc Biochemistry & Cell Biology
BSc Biological Science
BSc Biotechnology
BSc Chemistry
BSc Environmental Management & Technology
BSc Environmental Science
BSc Mathematics
BSc Physics

City University of Hong Kong
BEng Bioengineering
BEng Biology & Chemistry
BEng Data & Systems Analytics
BEng Energy Science & Engineering
BEng Environmental Science & Engineering
BEng Mechanical & Biomedical Engineering
BEng Materials Engineering
BEng Nuclear and Risk Engineering
BEng Total Quality Engineering
BSc
BSc Applied Chemistry
BSc Applied Physics
BSc Biological Sciences
BSc Biomedical Sciences
BSc Chemistry
BSc Computing Mathematics
BSc Data Science
BSc Environmental Science & Management
BSc Physics
BSocSc Environmental Policy
BSocSc Public Policy & Politics

Hong Kong Polytechnic University
BA (Hons) Language & Speech Sciences
BEng (Hons) Environmental Engineering & Sustainable Development
BEng (Hons) Industrial & Systems Engineering
BEng (Hons) Product Engineering with Marketing
BEng (Hons) Scheme in Mechanical Engineering
BEng (Hons) Transportation Systems Engineering
Broad Discipline of Construction & Environment
Broad Discipline of Engineering
BSc (Hons) Analytical Sciences for Testing & Certification
BSc (Hons) Applied Biology with Biotechnology
BSc (Hons) Biomedical Engineering
BSc (Hons) Chemical Technology
BSc (Hons) Data Science & Analytics
BSc (Hons) Engineering Physics (Optoelectronics)
BSc (Hons) Engineering Physics / Articulation Programme with a specialism in Optoelectronics
BSc (Hons) Food Safety & Technology
BSc (Hons) Geomatics
BSc (Hons) Investment Science
BSc (Hons) Medical Laboratory Science
BSc (Hons) Mental Health Nursing
BSc (Hons) Nursing

Hong Kong Baptist University
BSc (Hons)
BSc (Hons) Analytical & Testing Sciences
BSc (Hons) Applied & Computational Mathematics
BSc (Hons) Applied Biology - Biotechnology
BSc (Hons) Applied Biology - Environmental Science
BSc (Hons) Chemistry
BSc (Hons) Green Energy Science
BSc (Hons) Mathematics & Statistics
BSc (Hons) Mathematical Science
BSc (Hons) Statistics & Operations Research
BSocSc (Hons) Geography
 
Lingnan University
BSc (Hons) Data Science

The Education University of Hong Kong
BA (Hons) Creative Arts & Culture - Music
BEd (Hons) (Primary) English Language
BEd (Hons) (Primary) General Studies / Mathematics
BEd (Hons) (Secondary) Mathematics Major
BEd (Hons) (Secondary) Information & Communication Technology
BEd (Hons) Chinese Language
BEd (Hons) Geography
BEd (Hons) Science
BSocSc (Hons) Global & Environmental Studies
BSocSc (Hons) Psychology
 

HKU SPACE International College

Graduates are eligible to apply for admission to various degree programmes offered by the HKU SPACE International College .

Career Prospects

Persons with a scientific training are in short supply in Hong Kong. There is always a great need for people who have qualities such as logical thinking and analytical ability. There are therefore, many job opportunities for those who have an Associate Degree in Science. This programme is an ideal starting point for related professions in the Sciences or related fields and for other careers in Commerce, Law, Finance and Education as well as a career in the Civil Service. Students will also be well prepared for professions that place a strong emphasis on analytical skills, such as the legal and banking professions.

 

Special Entrance Requirement

Applicants are also required to have obtained Level 2 or above in one of the following HKDSE subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics (Extended Module I / II), or Level 3 or above in HKDSE Combined Science; or equivalent.

 

*The above list is not exhaustive and only shows some of the examples.

GENERIC SKILLS
  • Introduction to Academic English
  • English for Academic Purposes I & II
  • Linear Algebra / Quantitative Analysis I
  • Calculus / Quantitative Analysis II / Information Technology Fundamentals
  • English for Science and Technology
  • Advanced Chinese Language

​​Experiential Learning (Choose one course from the following)

  • Intra- and Interpersonal Competencies
  • Science Laboratory Studies​
  • Science Field Studies
  • Science Project
SPECIALISM

Core

Year 1

(Choose 4 subjects from at most two areas)

Chemistry Area

  • Introduction to General Chemistry
  • Introductory Organic Chemistry
  • Introductory Analytical and Inorganic Chemistry
  • Chemistry for Life Science

Physics Area

(Students who intend to do Physics Theme must take Linear Algebra &  Calculus above)
  • Foundations of Physics
  • Fundamentals of Classical Mechanics
  • Fundamentals of Thermodynamics, Waves and Electromagnetism

Biological Science Area

  • Introductory Basic Biology
  • Molecular Biology and Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology and Physiology
  • Biodiversity and Genetics
  • Food and Nutrition Basics

Statistics Area

(Students who intend to do Statistics Theme must take Linear Algebra &  Calculus above)
  • Quantitative Analysis I
  • Quantitative Analysis II

Environmental and Earth Science Area

  • Biogeography
  • Environmental and Earth Science
  • Elements of Geology

Year 2

(Choose one theme from the following)

(The specialism core subjects under each theme or area is subject to change)

Biological Science Theme 

Biochemistry Area

  • General Chemistry I / General Chemistry II
  • Basic Biochemistry / Principles of Biochemistry
  • From Molecules to Cells
  • Organic Chemistry I

Molecular Biology / Biotechnology / Biological Sciences / Food and Nutritional Science Area

  • From Molecules to Cells
  • Biostatistics / Food Science and Nutrition
  • Basic Biochemistry / Principles of Biochemistry
  • Biological Sciences Laboratory Course

Chemistry Theme 

  • Organic Chemistry I
  • Inorganic Chemistry I
  • Analytical Chemistry I
  • General Chemistry II

Physics Theme

  • Introductory Electricity and Magnetism
  • Problem Solving in Physics
  • Introductory Heat and Thermodynamics
  • Introductory Mechanics

Statistics Theme

  • Statistics: Ideas and Concepts
  • Probability and Statistics I
  • Multivariable Calculus and Linear Algebra
  • University Mathematics II

Earth and Environmental Sciences Theme

Earth System Science Area

  • Blue Planet
  • Introduction to the Earth-life System
  • Fluid / Solid Interactions in Earth Processes
  • Introduction to Atmosphere and Hydrosphere

Environmental Science Area

  • General Chemistry I / Introduction to Climate Science
  • Introduction to Environmental Science
  • Environmental Life Science
  • Blue Planet

Environmental Management Theme 

  • Introduction to Thermal-fluid Science
  • Climate Change and Global Strategies
  • Contamination Management
  • Environment and Resource Management
Core Curriculum Courses
  • Critical Analysis and Reasoning in Discipline-based Studies
  • One Core Curriculum Course from the Area of Scientific and Technological Literacy 
  • One Core Curriculum Course from the Area of Culture, Media and Society 
  • One Core Curriculum Course from the Area of Perspectives in Arts and Humanities

Courses offered in each semester are subject to student enrolment, timetabling and resources available. 

Leung Ka Long
Leung Ka Long
  • 2022-23 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc Science, HKU (Year 1 entry)
  • Offer received: BSc Science, HKUST (Year 1 entry)

In the past year, HKU SPACE CC offered me sufficient learning opportunities. The library and computer centre let me learn more efficiently. Even though I was not an active learner, my lecturers still encouraged me to study. My classmates assisted me in solving academic issues because we all had a mutual target university admission. The failure in HKDSE was just a part of the learning progress. The associate degree gives you another chance for compensation.

Lam Ka Ling
Lam Ka Ling
  • 2022-23 Associate of Science (Physics Theme) (Year 2)
  • Offer received: BSc Physics, HKU (Senior entry)
  • Offer received: BSc Physics, HKUST (Senior entry)
  • Offer received: BSc Ocean Science and Technology, HKUST (Senior entry)
  • Offer received: BSc Physics, CityU (Advanced standing 1)

The teachers in HKU SPACE CC and HKU are friendly. They were willing to answer my questions patiently. Also, the summer bridging course is very helpful for my study. I appreciate it!

About the tips in studying, it is crucial to make friends and form study groups. Friends will give you emotional support. During the pandemic year, all courses were taught through Zoom. I felt afraid and lost at that moment. Luckily, my friend encouraged me and studied with me every day. Eventually, my friend and I got high GPA that semester!

Pong Chak Fung
Pong Chak Fung
  • 2021-22 Associate of Science (Earth and Environmental Science Theme) (Year 2)
  • Offer received: BSc Earth System, HKU (Year 3 entry)
  • Offer received: BEng Energy and Environmental Engineering, HKUST (Year 3 entry)

In HKU SPACE CC, I sought help form lecturers whenever I didn’t understand the concepts taught, both face to face after lesson time or through email. So, don’t be shy when you have questions. I kept doing revision on the lecture materials after every lesson and therefore it didn’t take me much time to study before the exam. Good luck and hope you have a pleasant experience in HKU SPACE CC.

Chan Ho Chun
Chan Ho Chun
  • 2020-21 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BEng, HKU (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKUST (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BEng, HKUST (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, CUHK (Year 1)

During my study at HKU SPACE CC, I met many friends of different backgrounds . At first, I was nervous at learning new subjects, I overcame the difficulties with the help from my friends and college lecturers. The key of success was studying hard, putting more effort on doing homework and past papers.

Inoceno, Denise Nicolete Ilustrisimo
Inoceno, Denise Nicolete Ilustrisimo
  • 2017-19 Associate of Science
  • 2019 BSc Environmental Science (Year 3), The University Hong Kong

Studying at HKU SPACE CC has allowed me to look at my academic life in a more holistic view and allowed me to explore what I would really like to study.

Tam Man Ying
Tam Man Ying
  • 2017-19 Associate of Science
  • 2019 BSc (Year 3), The University of Hong Kong

Lecturers in HKU SPACE CC are definitely caring and patient. With the guidance and support from the teachers, I have built up a better foundation and have prepared well for my future study.

Luk Pak Hei Jason
Luk Pak Hei Jason
  • 2017-18 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKU (Year 1)

Choosing to study in HKU SPACE CC is a decision that I have never thought of before. I received an offer from JUPAS but I determined to study in HKU SPACE CC. It was obviously the toughest decision that I have made in my life, and the most significant one at the same time.

The lecturers in HKU SPACE CC have top academic qualifications. They don’t simply provide us with knowledge, they also care about our future pathway and learning progress. In ASc programme, we were exposed to extensive hands-on practical experiences which strengthened our knowledge. Apart from the specialism courses, the generic courses have shaped myself into an all-rounded person. More importantly, acquiring knowledge in CC is not only about memorizing answers but understanding the important concepts. CC is a place for you to search for your goals and future pathway, which all of you can achieve what you want by your own way.

Wan Kin Fu
Wan Kin Fu
  • 2017-18 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, CUHK (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc Computing Maths, CityU (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKU (Year 1)

當初選擇HKU SPACE CC的原因是希望能升上三大,而SPACE CC亦是最多人能升上三大。我只是因為中文未及格而升不上八大。雖然我只有一年經驗,但當中也學到不少,印象最深刻的是chemistry和statistics課堂,想不到chemistry也能夠那麼有趣,而statistics亦令我對數學更感興趣。祝大家早早從太空升上八大。

Fong Cheuk Pan
Fong Cheuk Pan
  • 2017-18 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKU (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKUST (Year 1)

After I received my DSE results, I was so disappointed because I could not pursue my dream anymore as I couldn’t identify a school which provided the science subject I wanted. One day, when I searched for that kind of school, I found HKU SPACE CC. I chose to study in HKU SPACE CC because it provided a chance for me to learn science and they had high articulation rate to universities. On the first school day, I was very shy and worried about whether teachers were willing to answer my questions. Surprisingly, during the class, my teachers encouraged us to ask questions and did practices. Through reading the recommended reference books and raising questions, I understood more about the subject I studied. I also made some friends who worked hard. We studied together and helped each other. HKU SPACE CC is like a family. I hope that you can enjoy your life here and get into a university.

Siu Yiu
Siu Yiu
  • 2017-18 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKU (Year 1)

I wanted to learn from the best and that's why I chose HKU SPACE CC to prepare myself for university studies. I tried my best in every subject because I had to fight for my future. People may worry that science subjects are difficult but I think the most important factor is enthusiasm. Your ardor will encourage you to overcome the challenges. Lecturers in HKU SPACE CC are kind and caring. They will always be there when you need support. Remember, DSE is just a part of life, which is not the end but a new beginning.

Tang Tze Tung
Tang Tze Tung
  • 2017-18 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKU (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, CUHK (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKUST (Year 1)

Trust me. You would be grateful to study here before studying a degree. Here, you will study courses that are similar to the ones you will study in a bachelor’s degree. Teachers in HKU SPACE CC will ensure you really understand the things taught in class. After class, you may email lecturers for any problems. They are so nice and patient. You will build up better foundation and be well prepared before studying a degree (competition is really keen in degree studies). I'm sure you will all do a great job here. Wish you all the best!

Wong Kwan Yuen, Jaden
Wong Kwan Yuen, Jaden
  • 2017-18 Associate of Science (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKU (Year 1)
  • Offer received: BSc, HKUST (Year 1)

太空就好像一個大家庭,同學之間互相扶持,老師亦會給予很多支持。老師耐心的教 學與中學的是完全沒得比,我上堂經常問很多問題,他們都不厭其煩地解答。這裏 給了我很多鼓勵,提供了一個機會,讓我挽回在中學裡犯過最大的錯誤。現在我能夠 再上征途,全因為太空讓我重拾信心。還記得上年暑假,我完全沒想過自己能走到今 日,如果你願意,或許下一個就會是你。

Chan Yuk Chuen
Chan Yuk Chuen
  • 2016-17 Associate of Science (Environmental Science) (Year 2)
  • Offer received: BSc Environmental Science, HKU (Year 3)
  • Offer received: BEng Chemical and Environmental Engineering, HKUST (Year 2)
  • Offer received: BSc Environmental and Occupational Safety and Health, PolyU (Year 1)

The Associate of Science programme provided by HKU SPACE CC is definitely a good choice for students who are eager to study science.

One special reason that I chose HKU SPACE CC is that students can choose a specific science major to study in their second year of the programme, and there are many available options for them to choose as well. Therefore, it means that they can select their own study path based on their interests. Besides, students studying this programme are eligible to apply for many UGC-funded degree programmes in different universities. They are also very competitive in striving for a place at university because CC provides a lot of trainings to students to enhance their chance to get an offer from university.

Gloria Lau
Gloria Lau
  • 2017 Graduate of Associate of Science (Earth and Environmental Sciences)
  • Offer received: BSc Environmental Science, HKU
  • Offer received: BSc in Natural Science (Environmental Studies), CUHK
  • Offer received: BSc in Community Health Practice, CUHK

My efforts on the studies in CC have been paid off. Studying at University is no longer an unreachable goal. Thanks CC for giving me meaningful and brilliant student life. The two years of study here is absolutely worthwhile.

Li Yuen Yi Winnie
Li Yuen Yi, Winnie
  • 2014-15 Associate of Science, Year 2 (Earth and Environmental Sciences)
  • Offer received: HKU BSc Earth System Science Yr 3
  • Offer received: CUHK Natural Sciences Yr 1
  • Offer received: PolyU BSc in Environmental & Occupational Safety & Health Yr 1

Through out these two years, I have not only learned how to study well, but also have developed precious relationship with group mates. I have worked very hard in these two years to achieve my goals in studying in HKU. I cherished the time studying in HKU SPACE because I finally realized that I am very interested in Science especially Earth System Science. In HKU SPACE CC, I met true friends and caring teachers and the most important was that I found my goals ! Always work hard with a positive and relaxed attitude, you will finally make a success.

Chan Oi Ling
Chan Oi Ling
  • 2015-16 Associate of Science (Earth and Environmental Sciences) (Year 2)
  • Offer received: BSc Environmental Life Science, HKU (Year 3)
  • Offer received: BSc Applied Biology, HKBU
  • Offer received: BEd Science, Education University
  • Offer received: BEd Geography, Education University

Studying at CC was a tough but rewarding experience. I had to adopt to the change of using English as the medium of instruction and also took many courses which were not directly related to Science. However, after studying these subjects, my interest to other academic fields were developed, including Philosophy, Psychology and Visual Art. It is a surprising result! I found my dream in Year 2 - Earth Science. This realisation had triggered my thirsty of knowledge about our Earth. I didn’t mind spending extra time outside class time to research and read books as well as asking lecturers questions, as I believe there is no shortcut to success, except hard work. CC is memorable for me because there are lots of passionate and helpful lecturers and I am thankful to them. All I can do is to keep learning and work hard to reward them for their teaching and time.

Lam Man Kit
Lam Man Kit
  • 2013-14年度理學副學士二年級
  • 現於香港大學修讀理學士(化學)三年級

在最後一屆高考放榜時,由於成績未達入大學的基本要求,感覺很失望。那時,不少中學同學和老師都稱讚港大附屬學院的課程設計,自己又喜歡科學,所以就決定入讀理學副學士。初入學時,不少的課程都較中學的程度深,需要付出大量時間溫習和練習,幸好我認識了一班好朋友一起努力。 學院有很多優秀的講師,每當我遇到困難,他們都樂於幫助及耐心教導,令我的成績飛躍進步。學院為我提供了一個學習的機會,增長知識,培養興趣,豐富我的人生。多謝港大附屬學院和各位講師。