Innovating for Survival and Growth during Uncertain Time

Open Programmes are designed for executives and experienced managers across various industries who need to step away from day-to-day responsibilities to refresh their skills. It focuses on high-level peer interaction and gaining a global business perspective to navigate fast-changing environments. Examples include short seminars and leadership or management executive courses.

Open Programmes stand apart from Professional Certificate Programmes primarily in their academic credit structure, flexibility, and ultimate learning goals. Open Programmes are non-credit, short-term courses designed for active executives and senior managers who need rapid, practical insights to navigate changing business landscapes. They focus heavily on high-level networking, peer interaction, and immediate strategic refreshment without the pressure of formal assessments.

When compared to traditional degree programmes, such as a full Master’s or MBA, both Open and Professional Certificate options are significantly more bite-sized and agile. Traditional programmes demand a long-term, multi-year academic commitment to cover a broad, foundational curriculum, whereas Open Programmes offer immediate executive updates and Professional Certificates provide targeted, stackable skill sets designed for rapid career advancement.

Types of Open Programmes Available:

• Face-to-Face Programme:
  • Executive Short Courses & Seminars: Rapid, highly interactive sessions (such as the Fintech Seminar Series)
  • Mini-MBA / Comprehensive Executive Tracks: Broad-scope management courses (like the Mini-MBA) that compress essential leadership and business elements into a short, non-credit format.
• Online Programmes: Flexible, digital alternatives designed to provide the same global business perspectives remotely.

Topics Covered:

Leadership & Decision Making, Financial Management, Sustainability & ESG, Innovation & Strategy, Marketing & Customer Experience

Yes, you can absolutely apply! In fact, Open Programmes are specifically designed to welcome professionals who do not have a formal background in the subject matter.

The primary criteria for these programs is usually your level of professional experience rather than your academic history, as the learning relies heavily on senior-level peer discussions and sharing real-world business challenges.

The schedules and formats for Open Programmes are intentionally flexible to accommodate the demanding lives of senior professionals. Because these are standalone, short-term courses, there is no single “one-size-fits-all” schedule.

Most programs are short, 1- or 2-day modular courses delivered in person on campus.

Cantonese, English or Putonghua.

Fees for Open Programmes vary significantly depending on the depth, duration, and specific topic of the course.

We provide an Early Bird offer, a ‘Learn Together’ offer, and an Alumni rate (for CUHK, CUSCS, and APIB alumni).

The application process for Open Programmes is streamlined and completed entirely online. Applicants start by navigating to their desired course page and filling out a digital registration form detailing their professional background and current job title. During submission, candidates arrange payment and indicate any eligible savings—such as Early Bird, Alumni, or “Learn Together” discounts—before the admissions committee conducts a quick profile review to ensure a strong mix of executive peers. Because enrolment operates on a rolling basis, spots are secured upon payment confirmation, making early application ideal before registration closes a couple of weeks prior to the course start date.

For any programme enquiries, please contact:

Tel: (852) 3943 4413 / 3943 7438
Email: apib@cuhk.edu.hk