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Q.1 Why study ESSC?
If you are fascinated by how the Earth functions as an integrated and interactive system to shape our geosphere, climate, oceans and ecosystems as observed in the past and present, and desire to understand and help address the most pressing global environmental issues including climate change, pollution, threats from natural disasters as well as the scarcity of natural and energy resources, ESSC is for you!
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Q.2 What will I acquire from ESSC?
You will acquire the fundamental scientific knowledge in physics, chemistry and biology to understand what shape our planet and our living environments, as well as the quantitative and technical skills required for a career in, but not limited to, education and research in Earth and atmospheric sciences, climate change mitigation, geotechnical and weather services, environmental consulting and risk management.
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Q.3 What’s the academic background suggested if I wish to take ESSC?
Undergraduate students enjoy the flexibility to fully explore and choose their major programs in their first two years at CUHK, when any background required for ESSC can be acquired via careful planning of courses. That said, some background in physics, chemistry or mathematics at the most basic level shall be useful.
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Q.4 What is the difference between ESSC & Geography subject?
As part of the Faculty of Science, ESSC has a strong emphasis on scientific and mathematical knowledge, as well as on quantitative skills.
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Q.5 What is the difference between ESSC and other Earth Science Programme in HK?
With an emphasis on the Earth as an integrated system, more emphasis is laid on the interactions between different components of the Earth system. Thus, in addition to geology and geophysics, the core areas encompassed by ESSC would also include atmospheric and oceanic sciences, as well as hydrology and ecology.
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Q.6 Is there any suggestion for course selection in Year 1?
First-year students are recommended to take the physics, chemistry and mathematics courses required by the faculty package, as well as ESSC2010 Solid Earth Dynamics. ESSC2020 Climate System Dynamics is also recommended in their first year should the students already have some background in basic physics and mathematics.
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Q.7 After I have completed the ESSC Programme am I eligible to apply for MPhil-PhD programme?
Yes, most certainly, as long as you meet the minimum admission requirements set by different schools. CUHK is now offering a graduate programme on Earth & Atmospheric Sciences (EASC) at both M.Phil. and Ph.D. levels, in parallel with its successful launching of the undergraduate programme in Earth System Science (ESSC) in 2012.
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Q.8 Are internships available to students?
Yes, our students are eligible for a good range of internship opportunities including at the Hong Kong Observatory as well as other geotechnical companies and environmental organizations.