Challenging Employment and Salary Prospects for Social Science Graduates in Hong Kong

In a recent report released by the Education Bureau, it was revealed that social science graduates in Hong Kong face persistent challenges in terms of employment rates and salaries. Despite their contributions to society, these graduates have not received special support from the government.

According to data from the University Grants Committee (UGC) for the 2019/20 academic year, the employment rates for social science graduates from the eight major universities in Hong Kong ranged from 19% to 86%. The program with the highest employment rate was the Bachelor of Education and Social Sciences offered jointly by the Faculty of Education and the Faculty of Social Sciences at the University of Hong Kong. This program provides graduates with teaching qualifications, resulting in a relatively high employment rate. However, the employment rates for other social science programs typically fall between 50% and 70%, lower compared to graduates from other professional disciplines.

Furthermore, updated statistics from the UGC for the 2017/18 academic year revealed significant disparities in average annual salaries among different disciplines. Graduates in medical, dental, and nursing programs earned the highest average salary at HK$462,000, followed by education graduates at HK$290,000. However, social science graduates only earned an average salary of HK$227,000.

In a separate study conducted by the Hong Kong Institute of Human Resource Management and the School of Business at Hong Kong Baptist University, it was found that regardless of educational background, the information technology and engineering industries offered higher starting salaries compared to other sectors. These findings highlight the perception in society that social science is a "career-less" or "beggar's" subject.

The challenges faced by social science graduates in terms of employment rates and salaries raise concerns about the value and prospects of social science education in Hong Kong. Efforts should be made to bridge this gap and provide more support to social science graduates in terms of career development opportunities, job placement, and salary progression. Recognizing the vital role that social science plays in understanding society and shaping public policies, it is essential to address the existing biases and promote the value of social science education in Hong Kong. By investing in the future of social science graduates, Hong Kong can ensure a well-rounded and inclusive workforce that can tackle the complex social challenges of the future.