IMPORTANT NOTICE

This student handbook is designed to provide basic information of the Department of Real
Estate and Construction and the Master of Science degree programmes in Construction
Project Management and Real Estate. Although every effort has been made to ensure the
information contained in this handbook is correct at the time of printing (July 2010),
students should note that the contents are subject to change any time during the
academic year.

This handbook is provided for information and guidance only and does not form
part of a contract between students and the University.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Programme and Award 1

2. Modes of Study and Dates of Semesters 4

3. Contents of the Programmes 5

4. Assessment 8

5. Referencing Guidelines 10

6. Examination Arrangements and Regulations 11

7. Criteria for passing 11

8. Programme Administration & Contacts 13

9. Frequently Asked Questions 14

Appendix I : Regulations and Syllabuses 17

Appendix II : Supplementary Information for QS and GPS majors 35

1. Programme and Award

Master of Science (MSc) in Construction Project Management and

Master of Science (MSc) in Real Estate

Our MSc programmes are modular programmes that comprise of prescribed modules and
elective modules. Successful completion of all prescribed modules and elective modules
plus the dissertation module (or 2 other elective modules) will qualify a candidate for the
award of MSc in Construction Project Management (CPM) or MSc in Real Estate (RE).
(See Figures 1 and 2 and Appendix I of this Handbook.)

Alternatively, if a candidate wishes to pursue one of the majors in each of the MSc
programmes, the relevant prescribed group of elective modules must be selected. The
MSc (CPM) majors are Construction Business Administration, Construction Law and
Dispute Resolution, and Project Finance. The MSc (RE) majors are Facility Management,
Planning and Development, and Real Estate Investment and Finance. Subject to satisfying
certain pre-requisites, graduates of the MSc (CPM) and MSc (RE) programmes will have
direct entry to the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) of the Royal Institution
of Chartered Surveyors in the UK. Students are reminded that their offer of the majors is
subject to the availability of modules and the discretion of the Department.

The MSc (CPM) major in Quantity Surveying, MSc (RE) major in General Practice
Surveying, MSc (RE) major in General Practice Surveying and Planning and
Development, and MSc (RE) major in General Practice Surveying and Facility
Management carry professional accreditation from the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors
and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. They include additional components
comprising three further specialist modules. (See Appendix II of this Handbook.)

Selection of electives is subject to availability of the module and the approval of the
Committee for Postgraduate Modular Programmes. Please note that as a general rule,
modules will not run in a given year if student numbers are not viable. Please check with
the programme administrators for the status and availability of electives.

1
 For Illustrative Purpose Only MSc in Construction Project Management
Economics for professionals (RECO6003)
Management theory and construction projects (RECO6006)
Law for the real estate and construction industry (RECO6042)
Research methods (RECO6047)

Project workshop (CPM) (RECO6058)

Contract strategies and project management techniques (RECO6005)

Any 4 elective modules in the CPM syllabus

Modern developments in the law of construction
Construction economics (RECO6004)
Business process engineering (RECO6027)
Any 4 elective modules in the CPM
Procurement systems (RECO6028)
syllabus
PLUS
1 elective module
PLUS
contracts (RECO6018) Construction economics (RECO6004)
3 STUDIO modules:
Alternative dispute resolution (RECO6031) Real estate investment (RECO6069)
Development case studies (QS) (RECO6060)
Law and practice of arbitration (RECO6032) Real estate finance (RECO6070)
Workshop report (QS) (RECO6062)
PLUS Project finance (RECO6017)
Professional report (QS) (RECO6064)
1 elective module

PLUS either Dissertation (RECO6020) or 2 other elective modules

MSc (CPM) majoring in MSc (CPM) majoring in MSc (CPM) majoring in MSc (CPM) majoring in
MSc (CPM)
Construction Business Administration Construction Law and Dispute Resolution Project Finance Quantity Surveying #

Professional Institution Accredited Curriculum

RICS MSc in Construction Project Management and all majoring options # Students with a non-construction-technology background will be required to enroll on
and exam in the pre-course programme: Construction Technology. The pre-course
HKIS MSc in Construction Project Management majoring in Quantity Surveying programme is a self-learning package with tutorial support and exam will commence in
advance of the main programmes.

Figure 1. Roadmap of MSc (CPM) Programme

2
 MSc in Real Estate
For Illustrative Purpose Only

Figure 2. Roadmap of MSc (RE) Programme

3
2. Modes of Study and Dates of Semesters

The MSc programmes in Construction Project Management and Real Estate are offered in
both full time and part time modes of study. Normally, the duration of full time study is
one year, whilst for part time study the duration is two years. (Please refer to Appendix II
of this Handbook for additional information on the majors in Quantity Surveying and
General Practice Surveying.) The maximum period of study is five years. Students not
able to complete the programme within the maximum period will be recommended for
discontinuation.

There are two semesters per year and each semester is of approximately 12 weeks
duration. Examination will normally be held after the end of each semester. Most of the
taught modules are delivered during evenings and/or weekends for both full-time and part-
time students. There are a number of daytime modules for full-time students.

Dates of semesters in the 2010-11 academic year are listed below for your reference:

1st semester
Teaching period: 1 Sep to 30 Nov 2010
Examination period: 8 to 21 Dec 2010

2nd semester
Teaching period: 10 Jan to 21 Apr 2011
Examination period: 3 to 21 May 2011

There will be NO reading week for MSc programme in the 2010-11 academic year.

Dates of semesters are subject to change. Students are advised to check the latest
information in the student area in the Departmental web site at
http://rec.hku.hk/MSc/studentarea/.

4
3. Contents of the Programmes

Details of the taught modules (including syllabus, course content, learning outcomes,
reading lists, etc.) can be accessed at http://rec.hku.hk/MSc/studentarea/. Combinations of
particular modules have been determined to be core plus other modules required for
‘majors’ to ensure that suitable and coherent themes of study are undertaken,
commensurate with the resulting award. This philosophy is extended into the project
workshop, the selection of elective modules and the determination of topics of study for
the dissertation. Students not pursuing the generic MSc in Real Estate or Construction
Project Management could select any “major” field of study.

5
The maximum number of modules, including prescribed modules, can be taken per
semester is:
Full-time students: 7 modules Part-time students: 4 modules
Minimum: 1 module
Students not enrolled in any module must provide reason in writing to the
department. Otherwise, a voluntary withdrawal will be assumed.
(Modules offered in 2010-11 are subject to approval)

6
Research Method and Dissertation

Competence in research skills is one of the essential learning outcomes of our MSc
programmes. To ensure that our graduates have acquired the fundamental research skills
and techniques, Research methods (RECO6047) is designed as a prescribed core module
for all students. Students who have achieved grade C+ or above in Research methods are
allowed to enroll in the Dissertation (RECO6020) module. Despite an elective module,
Dissertation is an important part of the programme. It constitutes a major, individual,
research-oriented piece of work and, as such, provides a unique opportunity for
programme participants to use and to demonstrate their skills and abilities in
systematically investigating a topic in depth.

Dissertation shall be on an approved topic relevant to the curriculum. Candidates are

required to complete a dissertation, with a minimum number of words specified in the
academic year, on the approved topics. The title of the dissertation shall be submitted for
approval not later than one month before the start of the final academic semester of study
viz. 10 December 2010 for full time students or four months before the start of the final
academic semester of study viz. mid-September 2011 for part-time students.

The dissertation shall be presented not later than twelve months after the start of the final
academic semester of study. The candidate shall submit a statement that the dissertation
represents his own work undertaken after registration as a candidate for the degree.

7
4. Assessment

Programme participants are requested to refer to the latest edition of the Regulations of the
University. Reference should be made to the General Regulations as well as those for the
MSc in Construction Project Management and MSc in Real Estate.

In keeping with the philosophy and scope of the programme, assessment takes a variety of
forms. Most commonly, taught modules are assessed by a combination of coursework and
examination. However, modules may be assessed exclusively by either examination or
coursework as determined by the examiners. Coursework may take a variety of forms and
formats, including essays, reports, case studies and oral presentations; coursework may be
undertaken by individuals or in groups, at the discretion of the examiners.

Allocation of the form of assessment for each module and the assessment weighting shall be
determined by the examiners. The assessment and weighting for each module as well as
cover-page of all coursework submissions will be posted in student area in the Departmental
website http://rec.hku.hk/MSc/studentarea/.

The submission deadline for each item of course work will be stated in the coursework
handout. Coursework assignments must be submitted either by hand, or by registered post to
the General Office of the Department, or any other means specified by the module teacher, on
or before the relevant submission date and time.

Location of assignment drop-in box (next to room 501, General Office, Department of Real
Estate and Construction, Knowles Building, HKU)

8
Any student who fails to present himself/herself for an oral presentation of coursework/oral
examination will be awarded a zero mark for that assessment/component.

The non-submission of a task constitutes automatic failure of that task.

Late submission without prior approval from the Programme Director will have the mark on
that task reduced on a sliding scale:
Submitted within 2 weeks after deadline – 20% deduction
Submitted after 2 weeks within 4 weeks – 30% deduction
Submitted after 4 weeks – 50% deduction

However, an extension of up to a maximum of 2 weeks may be approved by the Programme

Director on written application to the Programme Administrator by a student at least 5
working days before the submission deadline for the relevant task. Grounds for an
Extension of Time (EOT) request together with substantiation (e.g. employer’s letter, medical
certificate) where possible must be included with the written application.

In cases where students, due to various personal reasons, find it difficult to meet most of the
submission deadlines and to attend the programme itself, they are strongly advised to talk to
the Programme Director in order to determine whether a Leave of Absence should be
granted.

Applications for leave of absence without strong reasons will not be considered.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is defined by the University’s Regulations Governing Conduct at Examination

(Regulation 6) as: “… the unacknowledged use, as one’s own, of work or another person,
whether or not such work has been published.” In simple terms, plagiarism is about copying.
It does not matter whether the work that has been copied has been published or not. The
important points are that work was copied from someone else and that no acknowledgement
was made of this fact. All written submissions (including coursework and the Dissertation,
and for QS and GPS majors, studio tasks and the Professional Report) must be fully and
correctly referenced.

Any student who is adjudged to have plagiarised work (i.e. intentionally passed-off the work
of another person as the work of the student in question) will have a zero mark awarded for
that piece of work. Further disciplinary action may be taken as the examiners and the
University authorities deem appropriate. Please refer to the HKU booklet “What is
Plagiarism?” and visit http://www.hku.hk/plagiarism for more information.

9
5. Referencing Guidelines

Quotations, paraphrasing and similar use of the published work of other people (from a
source, such as a book, periodical or journal article) must be properly referenced to show
where the information has come from. Enough detail must be given to enable other people to
identify the reference without having to re-do the search; this information is given both in the
text of the submission and as a list of references at the end of the text. (If the sources are
used as ‘background’ information only – i.e. no direct quotations or paraphrasing has been
used the list is a bibliography.) Much frustration can be avoided by making sure that
literature references are always clear and accurate. It is good practice to record the full details
of the reference at the time of using it. Colin (2007) provides very good guidelines in
referencing.

Colin, N. (2007), The complete guide to referencing and avoiding plagiarism, Open
University Press, Maidenhead.

Referencing Style
Whichever style of referencing is adopted, it is essential to be consistent!

There are a number of internationally recognised referencing styles – Harvard, APA and
Numeric. The Harvard system is the preferred style for submission to the Department of Real
Estate and Construction. To manage your references and citation in appropriate style, the
bibliographical management software called EndNote is recommended which available at
http://lib.hku.hk/endnote/.

Harvard Style of Referencing

Within the text, refer to references by family name of the ‘lead author’ (without initials) and
year as illustrated in the following passage:
“Although first prepared by Benedikt (1879) its structure was not confirmed
until much later (Osborn and Jay, 1955). Fox, et al. (1973) have recently
shown that it is a good chlorinating agent.”
Whenever a paper written by two authors is cited, give both authors’ names. Where there are
more than two, give the first name only followed by "et al.". It is very helpful to refer to
specific pages in a work by putting the page numbers after the year, e.g. Martindale (1972:57-
85). If the author is not named, give the corporate author, e.g. Monopolies Commission, or
title, instead. Avoid using footnotes.

List references in alphabetical order at the end of the text under the headings References or
Bibliography (as appropriate). Include only those works cited in the text as references. When
referring to more than one paper by the same named author in the same year add a, b, c, etc.
after the year, e.g. 1976a, 1976b.

More examples showing how to quote references in the list of references or bibliography at
the end of text can be accessed at http://rec.hku.hk/MSc/studentarea/.

10
6. Examination Arrangements and Regulations

Students will be notified the dates, times and venues of examinations at appropriate times in
advance of the examination. Students may also visit the web site of Examinations Unit
http://www.hku.hk/exam/ to check examination time-tables and any latest amendments.

Besides, students are strongly advised to familiarize themselves with Regulations Governing
Conduct at the Examinations (document 107/909 amended) and other information available
from the above website.

As a general reminder, any candidate who is unable because of illness to be present for any
paper in the examination or who believes that his state of health either immediately before or
during the examination significantly affected his performance should:

(a) write to the Examinations Secretary immediately setting out his case; and

(b) arrange to submit a Form of Medical Certificate (40/1008 re-amended available from
Examination Unit website). He should complete Part I and then give or send this form to his
doctor with a request that it be completed within 2 days of the date of the examination
concerned and sent by the doctor directly to the Director, University Health Service. The
completed form must reach the Director of the University Health Service not later than 14
days after the examination.

7. Criteria for Passing

Normally, a programme participant must achieve a minimum of 40% in each module to

achieve a pass in that module.

Any candidate who completes the programme and consistently achieves the highest grades in
all modules and an average overall mark in the highest grade may be considered by the
examiners for the award of MSc (Construction Project Management) or MSc (Real Estate)
with Distinction or Credit.

Grades are awarded as follows (Subject to Approval):

Grade Range of Marks

(to be recorded in transcripts)

A- / A / A+ 75 and above

B- / B / B+ 60-74

C- / C / C+ 48-59

D / D+ 40-47

F below 40

11
As a general rule, standards-referenced assessment is employed. The assessment criteria and
expected levels of student performance follow the SOLO (Structure of Observed Learning
Outcomes) taxonomy developed by Biggs and Collis (1982) 1 and Biggs (1992) 2 .

Grade A-/A/A+ - Excellent (75% - 100%)

“The coherent whole is conceptualized at a higher level of abstraction and is

applied to new and broader domains.”

Grade B-/B/B+ - Good (60% - 74%)

“Understanding in the sense of relations between the whole and its parts. An
approach that integrates a collection of data. Applying concepts to a familiar
set of data or problem.”

Grade C-/C/C+ - Satisfactory (48% - 59%)

“Presentation of adequate information but not structured to convey

comprehension of the topics as a coherent whole.”

Grade D/D+ - Pass (40% - 47%)

“Outcomes at the lowest acceptable level of understanding: naming, dealing

with terminology, focusing on single issues with little relationship of facts or
ideas”

F – Fail (39% and below)

Unsatisfactory work. The evidence is irrelevant, inaccurate or misjudged.

1
Biggs, J.B., & Collis, K.F. (1982), Evaluating the quality of learning: The SOLO taxonomy, Academic
Press: New York.
2
Biggs, J.B. (1992), “A qualitative approach to grading students”, HERDSA News, vol. 14(3), p.p. 3-6.

12
8. Programme Administration and Contacts

The programmes are administered by the Department of Real Estate and Construction.

Acting Head of Prof. K. W. Chau

Department: Tel: 2859 2146
Email: hrrbckw@hku.hk

Programme Director : Dr. F.F. Ng Dr. S. W. Poon

Tel : 2857 8628 Tel : 2857 8628
Email : Ng.Fung.Fai@hku.hk Email : swpoon@hku.hk

Programme Miss Catherine Cheng

Administrators : Tel : 2857 8628
Email : catherinehlc@hkucc.hku.hk

Department of Real Estate and Construction

Faculty of Architecture, The University of Hong Kong
5/F, Knowles Building
Pokfulam Road
Hong Kong
Fax : 2559 9457

Students should contact the Faculty of Architecture regarding enrollment issues, application
for Leave of Absence, Extension of Time etc. The application forms can be downloaded from
http://rec.hku.hk/MSc/studentarea/.

MSc Programme Administrator Miss Claren Chan

The Faculty of Architecture Tel : 2219 4409
4/F, Knowles Building Fax: 2857 2852
The University of Hong Kong Email: claren@hkucc.hku.hk
Pokfulam Road
Hong Kong

Office Hours:

Monday : 0900 - 1300 and 1400 - 1800

Tuesday to Friday : 0900 - 1300 and 1400 – 1745

13
9. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I take a longer period to complete my study?

In normal situation, a full-time student should complete our programme in one year (without
dissertation) or one and a half year (with dissertation). A part-time student should complete
our programme in two years (without dissertation) and three years (with dissertation).
However, students are allowed to take fewer modules with respect to their workload and
spread their study over a longer period of time. The maximum period of study is five years
for both full-time and part-time students. Students not able to complete the programme within
five years will be recommended for discontinuation.

How many modules could I enroll in each semester?

Normally, a full-time student should enroll 6 modules per semester while a part-time student
should enroll 3 modules per semester. However, we allow full-time students to enroll 1 to 7
modules per semester and part-time students to enroll 1 to 4 modules per semester. Hence,
students could manage their study load and work load with respect to their own situations. If
a student does not enroll any module then the student must submit a written explanation to
the department. Otherwise, a volunteer withdrawal from the programme will be assumed.

How to apply for Leave of Absence?

As students have the flexibility to balance their study load and workload by enrolling
appropriate number of modules per semester, application for Leave of Absence is not
necessary and will not be granted without special reasons. If a student does not enroll any
module then the student must submit a written explanation to the department. Otherwise, a
volunteer withdrawal from the programme will be assumed.

How much should I pay to complete the programme?

The total composition fee of the programme in any academic year is for reference only. The
actual final composition fee varies according to the period of study and the number of
modules enrolled. Students should pay the tuition fee on a semester basis according to the
number of modules enrolled and the current tuition fee of modules in that academic year. As
tuition fee will be revised annually, the final sum of tuition fee varies according to the length
of study and number of modules enrolled in each academic year as illustrated in the following
hypothetical example:
Student A Student B Student C
6 modules: 3 modules: 3 modules:
Semester 1
Academic $6,600 per $39,600 $19,800 $19,800
Year 20x1 module 6 modules: 3 modules: 2 modules:
Semester 2
$39,600 $19,800 $13,200
3 modules: 3 modules:
Semester 1
Academic $7,000 per $21,000 $21,000
Year 20x2 module 3 modules: 0 modules:
Semester 2
$21,000 $0
2 modules:
Semester 1
Academic $7,500 per $15,000
Year 20x3 module 2 modules:
Semester 2
$15,000
Total Tuition Fee for 12 modules: $79,200 $81,600 $84,000

14
What will happen if I fail a module?
If the failed module is a core module, then the student is required to re-take the module again
in another semester (i.e. enroll and pay the tuition fee of that module again in another
semester). If a student has failed a core modules 3 times then the student will be
recommended for discontinuation.
If the failed module is an elective module, then the student could either re-take the module
again in another semester (i.e. enroll and pay the tuition fee of that module again in another
semester) or select another elective module. If a student has failed an elective module 3 times
then the student will be recommended for discontinuation.

Can I enroll in modules offered by the other programme?

Students enrolled in a specific programme are allowed to enroll in any modules offered in
that programme. If a student wants to enroll in a module offered by another programme, then
written application must be submitted to the department for approval by the module leader
and programme director.

Can I change my mode of study, say from full-time to part-time?

The entry requirements of full-time and part-time students are different, as there is an
additional requirement of 2 years working experience for part-time students. Therefore, it
should not be a problem for changing the mode of study from part-time to full-time. There
may be a problem in changing from full-time mode to part-time mode of study. In any case,
written application has to be submitted to the department for consideration and approval.

How can I switch from one major to another major during my study?
When a student is admitted to our MSc programme, the major is an indication of interest
which is not part of the contract. The major obtained will be determined according to the
modules successfully completed when the student graduates. Hence, students have the
flexibility to select any modules to obtain the desired major according to their own interests.

How can I get a double major?

Starting in 2009 academic year, students are able to obtain double major by completing
additional prescribed modules. No triple major or other multiple major will be considered or
granted. The general rule to obtain a double major is to complete 12 modules for one major
plus the additional prescribed modules of the second major, and each module should only be
counted once towards the requirements of the major. Examples in the following table show
the possible scenarios:

15
 Student A Student B Student C Student D
RE Core Modules 5 Core modules 5 Core modules 5 Core modules 5 Core modules
for all RE for all RE for all RE for all RE
students students students students
Prescribed Real estate Real estate Real estate Real estate
modules for first investment investment investment investment
major in Real (RECO6069); (RECO6069); (RECO6069); (RECO6069);
Estate Investment Real estate Real estate Real estate Real estate
and Finance finance finance finance finance
(RECO6070); (RECO6070); (RECO6070); (RECO6070);
Real estate Real estate Real estate Real estate
investment and investment and investment and investment and
the capital market the capital market the capital market the capital market
(RECO6015); (RECO6015); (RECO6015); (RECO6015);
Land economics Land economics Land economics Land economics
(RECO6016); (RECO6016); (RECO6016); (RECO6016);
Project finance Project finance Project finance Project finance
(RECO6017) (RECO6017) (RECO6017) (RECO6017)
Elective modules Hong Kong land Hong Kong land Facility Hong Kong land
for first major administration administration management administration
(RECO6037); (RECO6037); practice (RECO6037);
Facility Facility (RECO6033); Facility
management management Facility management
practice practice maintenance practice
(RECO6033); (RECO6033); management (RECO6033);
Information Information (RECO6034); Information
management in management in Advanced facility Management in
construction construction technology Construction
(RECO6027) (RECO6027) (RECO6035) (RECO6027)
Prescribed Nil Development case Planning and
modules for studies (GPS) markets
second major (RECO6061); (RECO6044);
Workshop report Planning and
(GPS) building
(RECO6063); development
Professional (RECO6039);
report (GPS) Development
(RECO6065) projects
(RECO6041)
Completed
12 15 12 15
modules:
Major achieved: Real Estate Double major in Student has an Double major in
Investment and Real Estate option to select Real Estate
Finance Investment and either majoring in Investment and
Finance and Real Estate Finance and
General Practice Investment and Planning and
Surveying Finance or Development
majoring in
Facility
Management

16
 Appendix I

Regulations and Syllabuses for

MSc (Construction Project Management)

and

MSc (Real Estate)

17
REGULATIONS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE
IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT (MSc[ConstProjectMan])

(See also General Regulations)

Any publication based on work approved for a higher degree should contain a reference to the effect
that the work was submitted to the University of Hong Kong for the award of the degree.

Admission requirements

Ar201 To be eligible for admission to the curriculum for the degree of Master of Science in
Construction Project Management a candidate
(a) shall comply with the General Regulations;
(b) shall hold
(i) a degree or other qualification of equivalent standard awarded by this University
or by another university or comparable institution accepted for this purpose; or
(ii) a professional qualification and membership of an appropriate professional body
accepted for this purpose; and
(c) shall satisfy the examiners in a qualifying examination if required.

Qualifying examination

Ar202

(a) A qualifying examination may be set to test a candidate's formal academic ability or his
ability to follow the courses of study prescribed: such an examination shall consist of one
or more written papers or their equivalent and may include a project report.
(b) A candidate who is required to satisfy the examiners in a qualifying examination shall not
be permitted to register until he has satisfied the examiners in the examination.

Award of Master degree

Ar203 To be eligible for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Construction Project
Management a candidate
(a) shall comply with the General Regulations; and
(b) shall complete the curriculum and satisfy the examiners in accordance with the regulations
set out below.

Length of Curriculum

Ar204

(a) The curriculum of the Master of Science in Construction Project Management shall extend
over not less than one academic year of full-time study or two academic years of part-time
study and shall include all examinations administered in accordance with the regulations
and syllabuses set out below. The maximum period of study is five years.

18
 (b) To complete the curriculum a candidate
(i) shall follow courses of instruction and complete satisfactorily all prescribed
written work and practical work where appropriate;
(ii) shall satisfy the examiners in all prescribed modules in any prescribed form of
examination;
(iii) shall satisfy the examiners in the manner specified in these regulations and
syllabuses in either
(1) 72 credits including prescribed and elective modules; or
(2) 72 credits including prescribed and elective modules plus 18 credits of
specialist modules for majors that carry professional accreditation where
required.

The examiners may at their discretion prescribe an oral examination in any module or on the dissertation.
Selection of modules shall be subject to the approval of the Committee for Postgraduate Modular Programmes.

Dissertation

Ar205 The title of the dissertation shall be submitted for approval not later than one month before
the start of the final academic semester of study for full time students or four months before the start
of the final academic semester of study for part-time students, and the dissertation shall be presented
not later than twelve months after the start of the final academic semester of study. The candidate
shall submit a statement that the dissertation represents his own work undertaken after registration as
a candidate for the degree.

Examinations

Ar206

(a) A candidate shall be recommended for discontinuation of studies under the provisions of General
Regulation G12 if he / she has:
(i) failed to satisfy the examiners in three modules or more in any semester or
(ii) failed to satisfy examiners of any one module at the third attempt during the period of his /
her studies or
(iii) failed to complete the curriculum by the end of the maximum period of studies.

(b) A candidate who has failed to satisfy the examiners in less than three modules in any semester:
(i) must repeat the module if it is a prescribed module; and
(ii) may either repeat the elective modules of failure or take other elective modules to satisfy
the examiners in accordance with the regulations.
(iii) may be permitted to present himself for re-examination subject to the approval of the
programme director.

Ar207 A candidate who has presented an unsatisfactory dissertation, but has satisfied the examiners
at the written examination or re-examination, shall be permitted to revise the dissertation and to re-
present it within a specified period to be determined by the Board of Examiners; and should he/she
fail to satisfy the examiners at the re-examination, he/she shall be recommended for discontinuation
of studies under the provisions of General Regulation G12.

19
Examination results

Ar208 At the conclusion of the examination, a pass list shall be published. Candidates who have
shown exceptional merit at the whole examination may be awarded a mark of distinction or credit,
and this mark shall be recorded in the candidates’ degree diploma.

Advanced Standing

Ar209 A candidate may be given advanced standing for up to 3 modules or 18 credits on the ground
that equivalent modules or courses or subjects have been passed at another university or comparable
institution accepted by the faculty for this purpose: provided that no candidate shall be eligible for the
award of the degree set out in these regulations without having completed at least 54 credits in this
programme.

20
REGULATIONS FOR THE DEGREE OF MASTER OF SCIENCE
IN REAL ESTATE (MSc[RealEst])

(See also General Regulations)

Any publication based on work approved for a higher degree should contain a reference to the effect
that the work was submitted to the University of Hong Kong for the award of the degree.

Admission requirements

Ar221 To be eligible for admission to the curriculum for the degree of Master of Science in Real
Estate a candidate
(a) shall comply with the General Regulations;
(b) shall hold
(i) a degree or other qualification of equivalent standard awarded by this University
or by another university or comparable institution accepted for this purpose; or
(ii) a professional qualification and membership of an appropriate professional body
accepted for this purpose; and
(c) shall satisfy the examiners in a qualifying examination if required.

Qualifying examination

Ar222

(a) A qualifying examination may be set to test a candidate's formal academic ability or his
ability to follow the courses of study prescribed: such an examination shall consist of one
or more written papers or their equivalent and may include a project report.
(b) A candidate who is required to satisfy the examiners in a qualifying examination shall not
be permitted to register until he has satisfied the examiners in the examination.

Award of Master degree

Ar223 To be eligible for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Real Estate a candidate
(a) shall comply with the General Regulations; and
(b) shall complete the curriculum and satisfy the examiners in accordance with the regulations
set out below.

Length of Curriculum

Ar224

(a) The curriculum of the Master of Science in Real Estate shall extend over not less than one
academic year of full-time study or two academic years of part-time study and shall
include all examinations administered in accordance with the regulations and syllabuses
set out below. The maximum period of studies is five years.

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 (b) To complete the curriculum a candidate
(i) shall follow courses of instruction and complete satisfactorily all prescribed
written work and practical work where appropriate;
(ii) shall satisfy the examiners in all prescribed modules in any prescribed form of
examination;
(iii) shall satisfy the examiners in the manner specified in these regulations and
syllabuses in either
(1) 72 credits including prescribed and elective modules; or
(2) 72 credits including prescribed and elective modules plus 18 credits of
specialist modules for majors that carry professional accreditation where
required.

The examiners may at their discretion prescribe an oral examination in any module or on the dissertation.
Selection of modules shall be subject to the approval of the Committee for Postgraduate Modular Programmes.

Dissertation

Ar225 The title of the dissertation shall be submitted for approval not later than one month before
the start of the final academic semester of study for full time students or four months before the start
of the final academic semester of study for part-time students, and the dissertation shall be presented
not later than twelve months after the start of the final academic semester of study. The candidate
shall submit a statement that the dissertation represents his own work undertaken after registration as
a candidate for the degree.

Examinations

Ar226

(a) A candidate shall be recommended for discontinuation of studies under the provisions of General
Regulation G12 if he / she has:
(i) failed to satisfy the examiners in three modules or more in any semester or
(ii) failed to satisfy examiners of any one module at the third attempt during the period of his
/ her studies or
(iii) failed to complete the curriculum by the end of the maximum period of studies.

(b) A candidate who has failed to satisfy the examiners in less than three modules in any semester:
(i) must repeat the module if it is a prescribed module; and
(ii) may either repeat the elective modules of failure or take other elective modules to satisfy
the examiners in accordance with the regulations; and
(iii) may be permitted to present himself for re-examination subject to the approval of the
programme director.

Ar227 A candidate who has presented an unsatisfactory dissertation, but has satisfied the examiners
at the written examination or re-examination, shall be permitted to revise the dissertation and to re-
present it within a specified period to be determined by the Board of Examiners; and should he/she
fail to satisfy the examiners at the re-examination, he/she shall be recommended for discontinuation
of studies under the provisions of General Regulation G12.

22
Examination results

Ar228 At the conclusion of the examination, a pass list shall be published. Candidates who have
shown exceptional merit at the whole examination may be awarded a mark of distinction or credit,
and this mark shall be recorded in the candidates’ degree diploma.

Advanced Standing

Ar229 A candidate may be given advanced standing for up to 3 modules or 18 credits on the ground
that equivalent modules or courses or subjects have been passed at another university or comparable
institution accepted by the faculty for this purpose: provided that no candidate shall be eligible for the
award of the degree set out in these regulations without having completed at least 54 credits in this
programme.

23
SYLLABUSES FOR THE MODULAR MASTERS DEGREES PROGRAMMES
IN CONSTRUCTION PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND REAL ESTATE

Programme Structure

The aim of the Modular Programmes, on a faculty-wide basis, is to provide advanced tuition in all
aspects of the project and land development processes, allowing students maximum flexibility in
module selection within their chosen disciplines. Where appropriate the programmes will be related
to developments not only in Hong Kong but also the Peoples' Republic of China and the Southeast
Asian region. Some of the modules listed below may not be offered every year.

To receive the award of Master of Science in Construction Project Management or Master of Science
in Real Estate, a candidate must complete either
(1) 72 credits including prescribed modules and elective modules; or
(2) 72 credits including prescribed modules and elective modules plus 18 credits of specialist
modules for majors that carry professional accreditation where required.

The prescribed modules for Master of Science in Construction Project Management are:
RECO6003 Economics for professionals;
RECO6005 Contract strategies and project management techniques;
RECO6006 Management theory and construction projects;
RECO6042 Law for the real estate and construction industry;
RECO6047 Research methods; and
RECO6058 Project workshop (CPM).

The prescribed modules for Master of Science in Real Estate are:

RECO6003 Economics for professionals;
RECO6006 Management theory and construction projects;
RECO6042 Law for the real estate and construction industry;
RECO6047 Research methods; and
RECO6059 Project workshop (RE).

Selection of elective modules shall be subject to the approval of the Committee for Postgraduate
Modular Programmes.

RECO6001. Urban planning: theory and practice (6 credits)

This module examines the evolution of Urban Planning and Urban Planning Theory both in developed
regions including Hong Kong and in developing parts of the world. It looks at contemporary planning
issues and the challenges faced at the local as well as the strategic planning levels.

RECO6003. Economics for professionals (6 credits)

This module examines the nature of economic inquiry, a demand and supply model for real estate
markets, monopoly of durable goods, pricing under demand uncertainty, search theory, asymmetric
information on quality, agency theory, property rights, theory of price control, external effects, public
goods, and Coasian critique of Neo-classical firm.

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RECO6004. Construction economics (6 credits)

This module examines the following aspects in construction economics: Building cost control, life
cycle costing, design economics, introduction to modelling, cost modelling - techniques, problems
and recent developments, the Hong Kong construction industry, cost, price, value and competition.

RECO6005. Contract strategies and project management techniques (6 credits)

This module examines risk management, contract strategies, organization form, relational contracting,
planning techniques, value management, quality management, operations research, sustainable
construction.

RECO6006. Management theory and construction projects (6 credits)

This module examines the fundamental knowledge in management theory and its application in
construction procurement: the project organization, management, schools of thought, the project life
cycle, organization structure, team roles, case studies of projects, project management tools.

RECO6007. Real estate and construction management practice (6 credits)

This module provides a framework for analyzing management practice in the real estate and
construction industry: people in organizations, orgainizational culture & climate, leadership,
motivation, commitment, cooperation & collaboration, decision aiding technologies, decision making,
negotiation, meetings, presentation techniques, conflict management.

RECO6014. Real estate management (6 credits)

This module approaches real estate management from a total asset management viewpoint. It covers
the real estate asset management environment, strategic decision-making in real estate, property asset
management, and real estate portfolio management from corporate and institutional perspectives. It
also deals with real estate agency and marketing principles.

RECO6015. Real estate investment and the capital markets (6 credits)

This module provides a framework for analyzing real estate investment within a capital markets
theoretical framework. It deals with real estate investment and modern portfolio theory, the capital
asset pricing model and portfolio performance measurement, and real estate market efficiency. The
module highlights comparative problems in the application of modern investment theory to real estate
investments and real estate markets.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance
Co-requisite: RECO6017. Project finance

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RECO6016. Land economics (6 credits)

This module covers the fundamental determinants of location of economic activities: the concept of
rent, marginal productivity and land rent, bid rent analysis and the formation of a land market,
economic regions and retail locations, industrial locations, land use control, property rights and
zoning, social cost and pollution problems, development timing and problems of urban
redevelopment.

RECO6017. Project finance (6 credits)

This module deals with project finance from an international financial markets perspective, and
includes real estate project financing. It covers international project finance and principles of
financial risk management. The module contains a substantial self-study component, and candidates
are required to present a detailed case study as part of module requirements.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance

RECO6018. Modern developments in the law of construction contracts (6 credits)

This module examines the modern development in the laws of contract and torts: interpretation,
comparison and application of various standard forms of building and civil engineering contracts and
sub-contracts: programmes, interim certification, set-off of payments, pay when paid clause, variation
and architect’s instruction, delay and extension of time, liquidated damages; preparation, evaluation
and presentation of claims; contractual, non-contractual and ex-gratia claims; global claims; advanced
claims techniques; contractual and common law remedies; bankruptcy and insurance in the context of
the construction industry.

RECO6020. Dissertation (12 credits)

This module requires candidates to conduct a research and present the findings as a dissertation. The
dissertation shall be on an approved topic relevant to the curriculum.

Pre-requisite: RECO6047. Research methods

RECO6027. Business process engineering (6 credits)

This module covers the concepts of business process engineering and reengineering. It introduces the
principles of business models, business processes analysis and design, workflow management,
techniques and supporting tools.

RECO6028. Procurement systems (6 credits)

This module examines the strategic and emergent issues in construction procurement: a definition of
procurement systems; organising the project procurement process; organisational design;
organisational learning as a vehicle for improved building procurement; culture; conventionally
orientated to developmentally orientated procurement systems; use of world wide web technologies

26
and procurement process implications; applying multiple project procurement methods to a portfolio
of infrastructure projects; multiple performance criteria for evaluating construction contractors;
applying partnering in the supply chain; selection criteria.

RECO6029. Information management in construction (6 credits)

This module covers the concepts of information management, business information systems and
computerization in the construction industry. It introduces the principles and applications of systems
analysis and design. It also focuses on special IT applications in construction including computer-
aided design and multimedia systems.

RECO6030. Knowledge management in construction (6 credits)

This module covers the concepts and development of knowledge management in the construction
industry: strategic information systems, object technology, coordinated project information exchange,
principles and applications of knowledge-based systems.

Co-requisite: RECO6029 Information management in construction

RECO6031. Alternative dispute resolution (6 credits)

This module examines the theory and practice of dispute resolution: negotiation; mediation; litigation;
arbitration and adjudication; practice and procedure; application in the real estate and construction
industry

RECO6032. Law and practice of arbitration (6 credits)

This module examines the process of arbitration in Hong Kong and China: common law and statute;
procedure and proof; the role of expert witnesses; domestic and international arbitrations; arbitration
institutions; application in the real estate and construction industry

RECO6033. Facility management practice (6 credits)

This module explores topical issues in facilities management, such as strategic corporate facility
planning, benchmarking, post-occupancy evaluation, outsourcing, space planning and management,
office safety and security, contingency planning.

RECO6034. Facility maintenance management (6 credits)

This module examines the principles and types of maintenance, the building life cycle and
obsolescence: Maintenance policies, strategies and statutory requirements. Planned maintenance,
preventive maintenance, contracts and standards for maintenance work. Building refurbishment,
alterations and conservation.

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RECO6035. Advanced facility technology (6 credits)

This module examines the options and installation of state-of-the-art services for communication,
power and data transmission technology, virtual office/workplace, data center, advanced monitoring
and automation for CAFM and BMS.

Pre-requisite: Pre-course – Construction technology

Pre-requisite: RECO6033. Facility management practice

RECO6036. Land administration systems (6 credits)

This module examines comparative land administration systems: freehold and leasehold tenure;
socialist land systems; communal land systems; their characteristics and impact on government
revenue, urban & rural development and resource conservation; land adjustments and reforms; urban
renewal.

RECO6037. Hong Kong land administration (6 credits)

This module examines the Hong Kong land administration system: its history and functions; how it
operates under administrative law; land exchanges and lease modifications; lease interpretation and
salient features of land administration in the New Territories.

RECO6038. Administrative law in land development in Hong Kong (6 credits)

This module covers the following aspects: the Basic Law; the HKSAR Government; judicial reviews
with the focus on lease control, planning, building and environmental protection; remedies;
interpretation of lease and town plans; lease enforcement; planning enforcement and building control
with the focus on development potential and liabilities of owners and occupiers.

Pre-requisite: RECO6039. Planning and building development

RECO6039. Planning and building development (6 credits)

This module deals with building development by examining the nature and procedures of plan
preparation, planning application and building applications; inter-relationship between lease, planning
and building control; planning appeals and building appeals.

Co-requisite: RECO6001. Urban planning: theory and practice

RECO6040. Construction safety management (6 credits)

This module covers introduction to construction site organisation; Occupational Safety and Health
regulations; Workers compensation and civil claims; Accident reporting systems; Safety management
systems; Site safety audits; Site safety initiatives; occupational health on site; Ergonomics and manual
handling; dangerous substances on site; Codes of practice and standards; Design and construction
considerations; Temporary works; Plant, tools and machinery; Personal protective Equipment; Unions
and subcontractors; Workers and dangerous trades

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RECO6041. Development projects (6 credits)

This module examines actual problem associated with planning and development projects in Hong
Kong and selectively, other cities around the region. It is case-based, highly interactive and
encourages students to explore different ways of finding solutions inherent to the land conversion
process.

RECO6042. Law for the real estate and construction industry (6 credits)

This module provides a study of the law relating to the real estate development and construction
processes: Acquisition, ownership, management and disposal of land and real estate; town planning;
finance of development; building contracts (standard forms, comparative studies); revenue law and
the real estate market; agency law; alternative dispute resolution movement.

RECO6043. Construction business management (6 credits)

This module examines the management of construction business which covers Hong Kong’s
economy, case studies, strategic management, marketing, financial performance, recruitment and
human resources management, safety management systems, environmental management systems,
ethics.

RECO6044. Planning and markets (6 credits)

This module examines alternative institutional means of coordinating specialized land uses from a
transaction cost perspective. The approaches of Pigou, Coase and Hayek are compared. The idea of
planning by contract is contrasted to that by edict and command.

RECO6045. Sustainable development and property rights (6 credits)

This module examines the idea of sustainable development from a Coasian and Schumpetarian
perspective and explores alternative systems of institutional arrangements that promote the idea.
Topics covered include theorization on the tragedy of the commons; rent dissipation; Coase Theorem
and theories of innovation.

RECO6046. Research seminar (6 credits)

This module aims to familiarize students with the rigors of producing a research proposal. Main
issues include the development of aims and objectives of the proposed research, determination and
justification of a suitable methodology to test hypotheses (if any), and deciding on a practical
programme for the execution of the research project. Students are required to give research seminar
presentations of their work as they progress.

Co-requisite: RECO6047 Research methods

29
RECO6047. Research methods (6 credits)

This module aims to develop the student’s abilities in the formulation of an appropriate research
framework. Main issues include: literature search, qualitative and quantitative research approaches,
experiment design, model building, data analysis and dissemination of results.

RECO6048. An introduction to sustainability and its relevance to the construction sector (6

credits)

This module is designed to give students a broad introduction to the theoretical concepts of
sustainability as well as the practical implications that it has for the construction industry in HK and
China and especially to the building design team. The module covers the following aspects :
Introduction to the concept of sustainability - historical context; Sustainable development;
Environmental impacts; The construction industry in Hong Kong and its response to sustainable
development; The construction industry in Chongqing and its response to sustainable development;
Life Cycle Assessment and its significance; and The measurement of social impacts - the final Life
Cycle Assessment frontier.

RECO6051. Land management in China (6 credits)

History of land management in China; transitional reforms in land markets; urban land reform in
China; rural land and urban villages in china; housing reform in China. Study trip to Real Estate
College at the Beijing Normal University, Zhu Hai campus. Bureaucratic and organizational structure
in land management in China; current legislations in land management in China; urban and rural land
management practice in China.

RECO6052. Financial services regulations for real estate professionals (6 credits)

Introduction to the HKSAR's legal system relating to banking, finance and real estate; Legal methods;
HKSAR’s corporate legislation; shareholders' rights and duties; The governance of listed companies
and the roles of real estate professionals; Financial markets – stock exchanges and stakeholders;
Securities and capital structure; Real estate professionals and market misconducts. Banking law of the
HKSAR; Structure of banking and deposit-taking institutions; financial requirements and real estate
lending; Supervision of banking institutions; Policy rationale of international trade; the WTO
Agreements - Financial Services Agreement.

RECO6053. Real options analysis in real estate and infrastructure development (6 credits)

This module extends conventional capital budgeting methodology and introduces the principles and
practice of Real Options Analysis and its role in the modern Extended Net Present Value model. The
value of managerial flexibility is considered within the context of the built environment, including
real estate and infrastructure projects and assets. Pricing models to value particular managerial
choices including the option to delay or defer projects, abandon projects, create flexible project
capacity, and switch project inputs are covered.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance

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RECO6054. Real estate derivatives (6 credits)

This module introduces new developments in real estate finance, and concentrates on real estate
derivatives. The nature of derivatives, pricing basics and indexes are introduced, concentrating on
real estate applications. The nature of financial risk in real estate investment and development is
considered, together with the use of real estate derivatives as risk management instruments.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance

RECO6055. Business valuation – theory (6 credits)

This module introduces and develops the principles of valuing business enterprises. It introduces and
develops the framework of the enterprise valuation model based on standard discounted cash flow
analysis using company data. It further covers the nature of industry and extended rivalry analysis and
the enterprise’s economic environment and the importance of strategic managerial actions for the
value of a business, following the concept of incorporating a business’s real options and growth
opportunities into business valuation.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance

RECO6056. Business valuation – practice (6 credits)

The module covers the practice of business valuation through case studies in Hong Kong and other
place. Practical considerations includes professional ethics and legal liability, relevant codes of
practices, accounting practices, valuation standards, data reliability and availability, relevant rules and
regulations and analysis of soft information and macro trends. The module further includes a critical
review of the limitations of current practices.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance
Co-requisites: RECO6055. Business valuation – theory

RECO6057. Theory and practice of valuation of fixed assets (6 credits)

This module introduces valuation of fixed assets for different purposes; relevant rules & regulations,
code of practices and valuation standards; site inspection of other legal documents; qualitative
assessment; data reliability and availability and analysis of soft information and macro trends;
advanced valuation techniques. The module further includes a critical review of the advantages and
disadvantages of different valuation techniques.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance

RECO6058. Project workshop (CPM) (6 credits)

This module is comprised of project workshop designed for construction project management. The
project workshop reflects the inter-disciplinary nature of the curriculum and aims to synthesize and
31
apply the theory taught in the lecture courses to a problem which in practice would engage the
combined skills of a number of the professions which constitute the property and construction
industries. Through this students will experience the demands and importance of teamwork under the
exigencies of actual commerce, and will appreciate the significance of their role and that of others in
the context of the environment, planning, the property and construction industry and accountancy.

RECO6059. Project workshop (RE) (6 credits)

This module is comprised of project workshop designed for real estate. The project workshop reflects
the inter-disciplinary nature of the curriculum and aims to synthesize and apply the theory taught in the
lecture courses to a problem which in practice would engage the combined skills of a number of the
professions which constitute the property and construction industries. Through this students will
experience the demands and importance of teamwork under the exigencies of actual commerce, and
will appreciate the significance of their role and that of others in the context of the environment,
planning, the property and construction industry and accountancy.

RECO6060. Development case studies (QS) (6 credits)

This module is comprised of development case studies designed for the professional discipline of
Quantity Surveying. It examines in detail the interaction of the various components within the
development process. It utilizes a series of case studies of actual projects of varying scale and
complexity which will allow for an analysis of the essential inputs to the process and the effects these
may have on outputs and the final product.

Co-requisites: RECO6062. Workshop report (QS)

RECO6064. Professional report (QS)

RECO6061. Development case studies (GPS) (6 credits)

This module is comprised of development case studies designed for the professional discipline of
General Practice Surveying. It examines in detail the interaction of the various components within the
development process. It utilizes a series of case studies of actual projects of varying scale and
complexity which will allow for an analysis of the essential inputs to the process and the effects these
may have on outputs and the final product.

Co-requisites: RECO6063. Workshop report (GPS)

RECO6065. Professional report (GPS)

RECO6062. Workshop report (QS) (6 credits)

The Workshop report comprises a number of task specific exercises relevant to the Quantity
Surveying discipline which can be independently developed and tested. There will be emphasis on
professional/practice skill through practice based case histories and/or assignments.

Co-requisites: RECO6060. Development case studies (QS)

RECO6064. Professional report (QS)

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RECO6063. Workshop report (GPS) (6 credits)

The Workshop report comprises a number of task specific exercises relevant to the General Practice
Surveying discipline which can be independently developed and tested. There will be emphasis on
professional/practice skill through practice based case histories and/or assignments.

Co-requisites: RECO6061. Development case studies (GPS)

RECO6065. Professional report (GPS)

RECO6064. Professional report (QS) (6 credits)

The Professional report represents an individual piece of work that emphasizes one of the specialist
elements within the professional discipline of Quantity Surveying.

Co-requisites: RECO6060. Development case studies (QS)

RECO6062. Workshop report (QS)

RECO6065. Professional report (GPS) (6 credits)

The Professional report represents an individual piece of work that emphasizes one of the specialist
elements within the professional discipline of General Practice Surveying.

Co-requisites: RECO6061. Development case studies (GPS)

RECO6063. Workshop report (GPS)

RECO6066. Real estate development and land policies (6 credits)

This module deals with the economics and structure of the real estate industry with special reference
to Hong Kong. It introduces the real estate sector as consisting of three interrelated subsectors,
namely the market for real estate services, the market for real estate assets, and the real estate
development market. The module also introduces principles of real estate market analysis and real
estate project evaluation.

RECO6067. Public sector project evaluation (6 credits)

This module approaches public sector project evaluation from a modern public sector management
perspective. It introduces public sector finance and the economics and finance frameworks within
which public sector projects are proposed, evaluated and chosen. It includes practical instruction in
the principal decision-making methodology, cost-benefit analysis, and developments in the field of
public sector cost of capital. It also introduces the influence of sustainability concerns and public
sector project evaluation.

Pre-requisites: RECO6069. Real estate investment

RECO6070. Real estate finance

33
RECO6068. Construction practice in Mainland China (6 credits)

This module examines the practical knowledge for conducting construction and building business in
Mainland China. It covers Analysis of China's construction market, Administrative and institutional
structure of the industry, Construction procedure including urban planning, feasibility, project
financing, architecture design, bidding and tendering, construction, and its major players. It will also
deliver knowledge about cultural dimensions, building and real estate practices, and
internationalization of the industry.

RECO6069. Real estate investment (6 credits)

This module introduces real estate investments as part of the universe of investment opportunities. It
introduces real estate investment analysis and decision-making, and modern capital market theory and
its application to real estate as an investment class.

RECO6070. Real estate finance (6 credits)

This module introduces corporate finance principles and their application within the context of the
real estate industry. It deals with standard corporate capital budgeting techniques and its application
to the real estate industry and projects. It further deals with cost of capital theory, and the principal
sources of real estate finance.

MHMP7001. Practices of housing management (6 credits)

This module covers the major concepts and practices of housing management in Hong Kong. It is
designed to deepen students’ knowledge of and interest in housing management in both the public and
private sector. It examines the concepts, development, legal context, major tasks, and current issues of
housing management. The management of other types of properties will also be introduced.

It is expected that students who are already working in the housing field would make use of their
working experience to critically evaluate the management issues discussed in the module. The current
trend of privatization and corporatization taking place in the public sector will also be canvassed.

A workshop on communication skills in housing management is included in this module. The skills
will facilitate the handling of residents and concern groups, the holding of meetings and interviews,
handling of crisis situations, and etc. The workshop is non-examinable but attendance is compulsory
as experiential learning methods are used.

URBP6904. Housing, planning and sustainability (6 credits)

This module aims to provide an integrative and in-depth understanding of Hong Kong's housing
system and its relationships with urban planning and the concepts of sustainable development. It
discusses the theoretical and practical aspects of housing, making special reference to their
relationships with urban planning and sustainable development. Major topics include the housing
system concepts, the political economy of housing policies, land use planning and housing
affordability, principals of residential planning, housing policy analyses, housing market analyses, and
the application of the sustainable development perspective to housing analyses.
25032010/re

34
 Appendix II

Supplementary Information

for

MSc(Construction Project Management)

Majoring in Quantity Surveying

MSc(Real Estate)
Majoring in General Practice Surveying

35
A1. Introduction

This Appendix, which is supplementary to the “Student Handbook for MSc’s in

Construction Project Management and Real Estate”, provides information and guidance
for programme participants of the MSc(CPM) majoring in Quantity Surveying and
MSc(RE) majoring in General Practice Surveying.

A2. Exemptions

These programmes are specifically designed as postgraduate conversion pathways which

provide a fully exempting award from the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) and
the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). They allow graduates from the QS
and GPS majors to enter directly to the relevant Assessment of Professional Competence
(APC), a prerequisite for professional recognition of the respective professional bodies.

A3. Programme Structure and Progression

These programmes are largely the same as the MSc programmes offered by the
Department of Real Estate and Construction (details of which are set out in the “Student
Handbook for MSc in CPM and RE”) but with an additional element of focused
professional studio work. The studio component consists of a Development Case
Studies (DCS) module, a Workshop Report (WR) module and a Professional Report.

Both prescribed and elective modules provide the essential academic underpinning of the
relevant surveying disciplines. The Studio components provide the environment/context
whereby the academic modules, which tend to be developed discretely, are integrated
and where the necessary professional skills relevant to the selected discipline in the
context of Hong Kong and the PRC can be more fully developed.

The Development Case Studies and Workshop Report modules, each of which comprise
a number of different tasks, place in particular a strong focus on developing the relevant
skills base. The Professional Report is designed to allow each student to undertake a
substantial independent piece of work on a topic of professional relevance (of the
student’s choice) and produce a report of his/her work. The report allows the student to
demonstrate his/her knowledge and application of professional skills/techniques and the
ability to carry out investigation and to critically analyse a problem or set of issues
related to the student’s chosen professional discipline.

The overall structure of the QS and GPS majors is shown below. For students
undertaking these pathways, opportunity will be given for them to pursue a “double
major” within the relevant portfolio. (Students with a non construction-technology
background will be required to enroll on and examine in the pre-course programme:
Construction Technology. The pre-course programme is a self-learning package with
tutorial support and will commence in advance of the main programmes.)

A4. Approximate Overall Teaching and Learning Workload

Each taught module represents 150 study hours from students. Study hours include
teaching and learning in terms of lectures, seminars, tutorials, case studies,
presentations, group discussion, online learning, site visit and self study etc. There is no
36
 prescribed format for the taught component. It is left to the discretion of each module
leader to decide how best to use the time available depending on the nature of the
material and the size of class. Naturally a great deal of reading will be required of
students to support the basic modules. The weight of a module is not deemed to be
simply the time that students spend in a classroom receiving conventional teaching.

Assessing total work-load on students is problematic as self study / reading and

coursework preparation time varies from student to student. A reasonable summary,
therefore, may be:

Study Hours
Prescribed and elective modules 10 x 150 1,500

Dissertation (or 2 elective modules) 2 x 150 300

Sub-total: 1,800

Development case studies 180 180

Workshop report 180 180
Professional report 180 180
Total = 2,340

A5. Assessment of Studio Modules

Development Case Studies and Workshop Report tasks are 100% coursework
assessment. The assessment criteria generally follows the SOLO (Structure of Observed
Learning Outcomes) taxonomy developed by Biggs and Collis (1982) 3 and Biggs
(1992) 4 .

F – Fail (39% and below)

Unsatisfactory work. The evidence is irrelevant, inaccurate or misjudged.

Grade D/D+ - Pass (40% - 47%)

“Outcomes at the lowest acceptable level of understanding: naming, dealing

with terminology, focusing on single issues with little relationship of facts or
ideas”

The student’s work is relevant but addresses only a few aspects of the task
topic; demonstration of understanding in a minimally acceptable way; poor
coverage, no originality; inclination to repeat mainly course/reading materials.

3
Biggs, J.B., & Collis, K.F. (1982), Evaluating the quality of learning: The SOLO taxonomy, Academic
Press: New York.
4
Biggs, J.B. (1992), “A qualitative approach to grading students”, HERDSA News, vol. 14(3), p.p. 3-6.
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 Grade C-/C/C+ - Satisfactory (48% - 59%)

“Presentation of adequate information but not structured to convey

comprehension of the topics as a coherent whole.”

The student’s work shows good understanding of several key aspects of the
topic but little evidence of an overall view. Good coverage but little
integration or application.

Grade B-/B/B+ - Good (60% - 74%)

“Understanding in the sense of relations between the whole and its parts. An
approach that integrates a collection of data. Applying concepts to a familiar
set of data or problem.”

The student’s work demonstrates a sound understanding of the various sub-

parts and how they are integrated to form a coherent view of the main thrust of
the topic.

Grade A-/A/A+ - Excellent (75% - 100%)

“The coherent whole is conceptualized at a higher level of abstraction and is

applied to new and broader domains.”

As for Grade B-/B/B+, but demonstrating deeper understanding and awareness

of issues / concepts (e.g. in the context of applications beyond those referred
to in the topic materials).

For the Development Case Studies and Workshop Report modules students are required
to pass all tasks in each module. Failure in more than three tasks in a module (or failure
in a re-submission of a task) will constitute failure of that module and necessitate a
repeat of the whole module (i.e. all tasks). The non-submission/late submission of a
task constitutes automatic failure of that task.

A candidate who has presented an unsatisfactory Professional Report may be permitted

to revise the Professional Report and to re-present it within a specified period of not
more than four months after receipt of a notice that it is unsatisfactory. A candidate
who has presented an unsatisfactory Professional Report for a second time shall be
recommended for discontinuation of the majoring option or discontinuation of studies
under the provisions of General Regulations G12.

A6. Submission Guidelines for Development Case Studies and Workshop Report Tasks

The submission deadline for each DCS and WR task will be stated in the handout for
each task. Task assignments must be submitted either by hand or by registered post, on
or before the relevant submission date and time, to the Taught Postgraduate
Programmes Administration Office

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The non-submission/late submission of a task constitutes automatic failure of that task.

However, an extension of up to a maximum of 2 weeks may be approved by the

Programme Director on written application to the Programme Administrator by a
student at least 5 working days before the submission deadline for the relevant task.
Grounds for the Extension of Time (EOT) request together with substantiation (e.g.
employer’s letter, medical certificate) where possible must be included with the written
application.

The cover-page of all DCS and WR task submissions should use the proforma sheet
which can be accessed at http://rec.hku.hk/MSc/studentarea/.

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