Programme Objectives
This Social Service Management programme aims to cultivate social service managers with a broad vision and professional capabilities. The programme will integrate knowledge of social science theories with management practices, enabling students to learn how to systematically plan, organise, lead and monitor social service organisations. The goal is for graduates to be able to efficiently and responsibly utilise public and non-profit resources, thereby enhancing social welfare and driving the sustainable development and social impact of social services.
The part-time Master of Social Sciences (Social Service Management) programme is dedicated to developing students' diverse and advanced management skills. The programme will teach students how to analyse social policies, assess service needs, and formulate long-term organisational development strategies; how to develop resources, effectively lead service teams, and establish human resources systems; and how to establish mechanisms for quality assurance and outcome evaluation. Through this systematic training, graduates will be equipped with the leadership skills to lead social service organisations in fulfilling their professional mission, responding to challenges, and pursuing sustainable development in complex social environments.
Programme Features
A unique focus on social science theories and practice knowledge
(a) Critical understanding of mainstream social science theories
(b) A focus on practice and practice knowledge
(c) Situated learning tied to the context
(d) Holistic understanding of professional practice
Flexible learning path with multiple exit points
English supplemented with Chinese as the Medium of Instruction
Prepare for future study and employment
Special offer of multiple scholarships
Learning outcome evaluation
Featured Modules
Electives
#Common core modules for Master of Social Sciences.
Graduation Path
Master of Social Sciences graduates could pursue further study in Master of Social Work (MSW) programmes in local and overseas universities for professional social worker registration or Doctor of Philosophy (PhD).
Career Path
Master of Social Sciences graduates could apply for non-social work managerial posts in NGOs, such as the newly set up District Services & Community Care Teams, or social work managerial posts (if the graduate has already obtained a social work degree) in NGOs or managerial posts in the organizations providing social services in the private sectors.
Part Time
Face to face
September 2026
Year 1
2 Years

Year 1: $60,000 Year 2: $60,000
Tel: 2265 6993
Email: mss@ctihe.edu.hk
What are the benefits of mastering social service management knowledge?
The benefit lies in effectively integrating resources and improving service quality and efficiency. Through functions such as planning, organizing, leading, and controlling, it systematically solves social problems and meets the needs of service users. Simultaneously, it cultivates professionals' strategic thinking, resource utilization, and problem-solving abilities, ultimately achieving the goal of promoting social well-being.
What are the admission requirements for this programme?
Applicants must hold a Bachelor's degree in any discipline from a recognized university (generally requiring at least Second Class Honours). If the applicant's Bachelor's degree was not taught in English, an IELTS score of 6.5 or other equivalent public English examination results are required; applicants must also pass an admission interview.
Is a background in social work mandatory to study the Social Service Management programme?
Not necessarily. Although many students are registered social workers hoping to transition into management through further study, these types of programmes usually welcome applicants without a social work background.
What study modes are available? What if I cannot complete the Master's degree all at once?
The programme offers flexible learning pathways. Students can choose between Full-time (1 year) or Part-time (2 years) modes. Additionally, the programme features multiple exit points; depending on their personal learning needs or work commitments, students may apply to graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate (upon completing 4 Common Core courses), a Postgraduate Diploma (upon completing 4 Common Core courses + 3 Elective courses), or the Master's Degree (upon completing all designated courses).
Is this programme suitable for working professionals? How long is the study period?
It is very suitable. This is a part-time programme with a study period of 2 years, specifically designed to cater to the continuing education needs of colleagues working in the social service sector. The programme features multiple exit points depending on their personal learning needs or work commitments. Students may apply to graduate with a Postgraduate Certificate (upon completing 4 Common Core courses), a Postgraduate Diploma (upon completing 4 Common Core courses + 3 Elective courses), or the Master's Degree (upon completing all designated courses).