1
THE CHINESE UNIVERSITY OF HONG KONG
Handbook on the Implementation of
the Academic Advisory System
Introduction
After a review of the academic advisory system for students, a proposal on an
enhanced advisory system for undergraduate and postgraduate students was approved by
the Senate in December 2011. This handbook seeks to provide the essential information
for the reference of the advisors and other relevant parties.
An Enhanced Academic Advisory System
It is affirmed that the University’s philosophy and mission are to develop all-rounded
students with a solid disciplinary understanding and whole-person development in order to
meet their long-term needs and prepare them for future challenges. The Programme/
Department-level advisory system, which primarily focuses on academic advising, is
essential in supporting students’ academic development and in overcoming academic
problems. At the same time, the support has become part of the whole student support and
pastoral care system. Advisors, apart from giving advice on academic matters, have
become resource persons and provide information on other whole-person development
opportunities to the students.
The student support services and available resources are outlined in Annex 1 and Annex
2. The general implementation schedules for undergraduate students and postgraduate
students are outlined in Annex 3 and Annex 4 respectively.
Inputs in the Academic Advisory System
Under the implementation plan approved by Senate, every student (both
undergraduate and postgraduate) is assigned an academic advisor (Level I Advisor) by the
Major department. Departments are requested to nominate designated academic advisors
(Level II Advisor) for students who need further support. Departments/ Programmes have
the flexibility to decide on the details of the appointment of Levels I and II Advisors, such
as whether Levels I and II Advisors are the same person for a particular student, and the
number of academic advisors for the Department, etc. so as to suit the different needs of
Departments/ Programmes.
The roles and responsibilities of the Advisors and other relevant parties are
summarized in Annex 5, and the operational procedures for meeting with students are
summarized in Annex 6.
Moreover, faculty-based Committees on Academic Advising are set up in faculties,
chaired by the Associate/ Assistant Deans concerned, for monitoring the implementation
of the advisory system in the faculties. The Terms of Reference of the Faculty Committee
on Academic Advising is in Annex 7.
