STEM-knowledge driven businesses dominate today’s economies. As Hong Kong’s role as a premier innovation hub in Asia becomes increasingly important, the demand for patent practitioners and legal professionals in the technology transfer industry soars. In its recent policy address, the HKSAR government has actively promoted technological transfer and entrepreneurship via the Innovation and Technology Bureau. Coupled with the rapid development of the Greater Bay Area, the need for talents with both science and legal training becomes even greater.
When the Faculty of Science and the Faculty of Law at The University of Hong Kong (HKU) launched the new double degree programme 6858 Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Laws (BSc&LLB) in the 2022-23 academic year, China ranked third in the world for patents granted. Reflecting the rapid growth of innovation and technology, China’s patent grants soared to 920,797 in 2023, ranking top in the world. Additionally, in 2023, China had the highest number of patents in force globally at 5 million, followed by the US with 3.5 million and Japan with 2.1 million. This surge in patent activity underscores a growing need for professionals who possess both scientific knowledge and legal expertise to navigate complex issues in intellectual property, technology regulation, and innovation management.
In view of these trends, the BSc&LLB programme—the first of its kind in Hong Kong—offers students the opportunity to develop multidisciplinary skills to meet the evolving demands of the sector.
Introduction of 6858 Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Laws
Student Sharing
Matthew CHOI
Year 4 student
Debby WONG
Year 4 student
Programme Leaflet