The accreditation and quality assurance of sub-degree/degree qualifications in the establishment of a Hong Kong qualifications framework: local, regional and transnational implications

Abstract

Issues relating to the introduction of accreditation and a regulatory framework in Hong Kong for sub-degree and vocational courses, which encompasses both public and private funded institutions, are examined. This is a milestone development that seeks to introduce comprehensive quality assurance and consistency in standard and nomenclature for sub-degree and vocational education. The development also entails issues of the articulation of sub-degree and degree qualifications and the transfer between academic and vocational or professional qualifications. On a broader perspective, the paper discusses the implications of two types of quality assurance initiatives: the government-directed and the voluntary initiatives, which co-exist in the current development in Hong Kong. Finally, on the regional and international perspective, the paper examines the implications for foreign qualifications including qualifications awarded through offshore delivery in Hong Kong.