The Hong Kong Institute of Education (HKIEd) has introduced a master of social science education degree in global ethnicity and intercultural citizenship to train students to contribute to a multicultural society in their respective professions.

Dr Simon Shen Xu-hei, the programme leader, says the course is a response to the increasing importance of cultural, political and social issues related to ethnic minorities.

"Students will acquire knowledge and direct application of theories related to education, cultural pluralism, ethnicity and citizenship," he says. "With this knowledge, students are able to critically examine ethnic issues in Hong Kong, the mainland and East Asia."

The programme is a dual-degree collaboration between HKIEd and the University of Illinois. Graduates are awarded the master of social science education (MSSE) in global ethnicity and intercultural citizenship provided by HKIEd, and the master of arts in globalisation, multiculturalism and education offered by the University of Illinois.

Classes offered by the American university are delivered via an "online classroom", allowing students and teachers to interact online in real time. The course is ideal for teachers and social workers working in a multi-ethnic environment, and liberal studies instructors.

Students can complete the course in 18 months to three years full-time, or 30 months to five years part-time. Classes are held on weekday evenings and Saturdays.

Applicants should be holders of honours degrees in arts, humanities, social sciences, humanities education, and liberal and environmental studies.