Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hung Hom, Hong Kong
Overview
Location
Academics
Living in Hong Kong
Important Dates
Eligibility Requirements
Program Contact
Additional Resources
Overview
During the Spring semester each year, Kent State Fashion Design and Merchandising students have the opportunity to complete unique courses at the Hong Kong Polytechnic Institute (PolyU). By spending a semester in Hong Kong, students will broaden their knowledge of the textiles and apparel industry while becoming globally-minded citizens. By making use of the state-of-the-art laboratories, workshops, and design studios available at PolyU, exchange program participants position themselves well for future academic and professional success.
Location
Set amidst skyscrapers in a bustling city, PolyU is situated in an area of Hong Kong with easily accessible public transit and nearby harbors. With multiple large universities and expatriate communities in the vicinity, students who study at PolyU will find a lively young crowd to befriend.
Academics
Courses available to exchange students are taught fully in English in the following subject areas:
- Fashion Design
- Fashion Merchandising
Students may enroll in junior-level design or merchandising courses; some senior-level merchandising or FDM elective courses may also be available. Courses that have been offered in the past include Intimate Apparel Production Engineering, Coloration and Finishing for Knitware, Fashion Retail Buying, and Global Fashion marketing, among many others. To maintain full-time status, students must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours while abroad and should work with their Academic Advisor to complete a Transfer Course Planning Form prior to departure.
Living in Hong Kong
Exchange students at PolyU will live in the on-campus Hung Hom Halls of Residence dormitory located within easy walking distance of academic buildings and numerous eateries. All student rooms are equipped with Wifi, air-conditioners, mini-fridge with freezer, and furniture (bed, desk, shelves, wardrobe). The bedrooms are double occupancy, while the toilet and shower facilities are shared by four students. The residence hall has 22 floors and every two floors are considered together to be an individual "hall," providing a close-knit sense of community. Lounge areas on each floor of the residence hall contain a kitchen with hot plates and microwaves; pots, pans, and utensils are not provided but can be purchased from a local IKEA store. Students are responsible for providing their own bedding and linens. Additional amenities located within the Hung Hom Halls of Residence include a dining hall, laundry rooms, study rooms, meeting rooms, fitness rooms, meditation room, game rooms, piano/band rooms, landscaped garden with BBQ grill, and swimming pool.
Although meal plans do not exist at PolyU, there are 15 budget-friendly on-campus dining outlets that serve a large variety of international cuisines to suit every palate. There are also many affordable restaurants and food vendors located in close proximity to campus.
PolyU offers students many opportunities to become involved on campus through student organizations, intramural sports, and organized cultural and social outings for exchange students.
Important Dates
TERM | APPLICATION DEADLINE | PROGRAM START DATE | PROGRAM END DATE |
Spring | Mid-September | Early January | Mid-May |
Eligibility Requirements
- Full-time, degree-seeking student at Kent State
- Fashion Design or Fashion Merchandising majors only
- Nomination and pre-approval by School of Fashion
- Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.5 or higher (3.0 GPA or higher is recommended)
- Recommended for junior-level students at time of participation
Program Contact
Molly Papay
Education Abroad Advisor
Email: mpapay1@kent.edu
Phone: 330-672-3067
Schedule an Advising Appointment
Additional Resources
- Learn more about this program through the PolyU Fact Sheet (PDF)
- Visit the Hong Kong Polytechnic University website to explore the campus, academics, and student life offerings
- U.S. Department of State - International Travel Country Information for Hong Kong website
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - Hong Kong Traveler View website