26
HKUST 2011-2012 Annual Report
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE
Capturing the 334
challenge
Final preparations have been undertaken
for the launch of a new School-based
undergraduate curriculum for the four-
year cohort. It offers students greater
flexibility in the choice of major, and
includes new thematic programs which
address various important and interesting
areas in science. Among the new
programs include the first School-based
Bachelor in Environmental Science, with
a special focus on critical thinking of
current environmental problems and
solutions. The newly formed division, the
Division of Life Science has also developed
three new majors — Biochemistry and
Cell Biology, Biological Sciences, and
Biotechnology.
In line with the spirit of the university’s Common Core Program theme, the School piloted three School-
sponsored courses, namely “
Great Ideas in Science
”, “
Chemistry and Life
”, and “
Space, Time and Motion
”.
These courses enable students from different disciplines to appreciate the nature and impact of science, which
will broaden their horizons beyond their major areas of study.
To ensure a smooth orientation for students, the School has established the Office of Academic Advising and
Support to provide advice on course and major selection, as well as information on university life and co-curricular
activities. Faculty members are heavily engaged in this endeavor with many assuming the role of pre-major
academic advisors. In addition, the School has launched a peer mentoring program known as MAGNET to engage
senior student volunteers in student advising and support programs.
Broadening the postgraduate experience
This year the School has pioneered the development of professional development programs to broaden and
enhance the learning experience of its research postgraduate students. Apart from a tailor-made language course
for science students which aims to strengthen students’ skills in research management and communication, a
Professional Development in Science
course is also in development. The course covers a wide range of topics
including teaching skills, research publication, professional conduct, presentation skills, and career development.
The School of Science strives to provide a balanced undergraduate education, an exceptional
postgraduate education, and strong research programs. This is evident as HKUST was ranked 9th
in Natural Science and 14th in the World’s Top 100 Asian Universities in Life Science and Medicine
in the 2012
QS Asian University Rankings
. The Chemistry Department was also ranked the top 11
in the 2012
QS World University Rankings for Chemistry
.
