The School of Public Policy at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen (SPP), officially announced its establishment in 2024. As a postgraduate school, SPP enrols master’s and doctoral students with the objective of developing modern public policy professionals equipped with a deep understanding of public administration principles as well as proficiency in advanced public policy tools. SPP aims to construct an inclusive and context-based knowledge system for Asian public policy and administration, and promote the development of applied social sciences. We aspire to become a world-class public policy school that embodies the public administration ethos of Asia and of China in particular. 

SPP's four key characteristics are:

• Inclusive and Context-Based Knowledge System: SPP leverages best practices in public policy and administration in Asia, with a particular emphasis on China, to develop an inclusive and context-based knowledge system. This practical and systemic approach supports the design and development of a curriculum that aligns with international standards while addressing regional and national needs.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: SPP introduces interdisciplinary programs specifically tailored to national strategies and regional development requirements. These programmes emphasize the integration of humanities and social sciences, engineering, agriculture, and medical disciplines.
• Focus on the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA): By conducting policy research on real issues in the GBA, SPP aims to nurture modern public policy talent in support of the region's sustainable economic and social development.

• International education exchange: SPP aims to cultivate policy research talent for China and other countries, initially focusing on East Asia, particularly the ASEAN nations, and gradually expanding to Europe and the Americas.

   

SPP offers the following master’s and doctoral programmes:

• The Master of Arts in Public Policy programme is designed to develop academic talents capable of tackling complex public policy challenges. It is open to students from diverse academic backgrounds who are passionate about public policy. Rooted in foundational disciplines such as policy science, public administration, political science, economics, management and sociology, the curriculum equips students with the essential knowledge and conceptual frameworks of public policy. It fosters a professional understanding of current public governance issues and enhances competencies in identifying and resolving policy problems. With a practice-oriented approach, the programme integrates in-depth global case studies with China’s governance experience, preparing graduates to tackle critical public policy challenges and supporting their future academic pursuits or diverse career pathways.
• The Master of Social Sciences in Urban Studies programme seeks to nurture scholars with solid research capabilities, a diverse academic background, and a broad, global outlook. Through interdisciplinary courses, it explores the complexity of urban development and urbanization theory, encompassing disciplines including policy science, geography, urban planning, economics, sociology, and anthropology. The programme introduces cutting-edge theories and methods, laying a strong foundation in analytical skills and research literacy for students aspiring to engage in urban affairs or pursue further academic study. (A part-time Master’s programme in Urban Studies is currently available.)
• The Master of Philosophy in Public Policy programme is tailored for students committed to policy research or planning to pursue a doctoral degree. It serves as a core platform for academic advancement and practical empowerment. Featuring a dual-track training model of “academics + practice,” the programme strengthens theoretical foundations through systematic coursework and rigorous academic training. It also leverages the school’s think-tank network to provide hands-on opportunities for policy investigation and analysis, thereby enhancing real-world problem-solving capabilities.
• The Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy programme is designed for master’s graduates who wish to devote themselves to academic and policy research in public policy. Anchored in China’s independent knowledge system, the programme offers coursework and research training aligned with international academic frontiers. It emphasizes cultivating critical theoretical thinking grounded in China’s practical experience, empowering students to become core contributors and innovators in the development of China’s autonomous public policy knowledge system.

To address the most pressing public policy and management challenges facing the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area and the nation, SPP plans to establish several specialized concentrations within these programs, including but not limited to: 

• Public Policy: AI and Governance, Law and Policy, Health Policy and Management 
• Urban Studies: Urban Policy and Governance, Urban Environment and Resource Management