Master of Laws in Digital Governance [LLM(DG)] | Academy for Applied Policy Studies and Education Futures

Programme Code

One-Year Full-time / A1M122

Programme Leader

Professor Gu Minkang, JP

Enquiry (Admission)

acadmission@eduhk.hk

Enquiry (Programme)

llmdg@eduhk.hk

2948 7989

Message from Programme Leader

As Programme Leader, I am excited to welcome you to a dynamic learning environment that will prepare you for the challenges of digital governance!

Introduction

With the increasingly extensive application of digital technology in economic, social and political life, the global digital economy is developing rapidly, and the competition is getting fiercer. In this regard, which approaches should government take to govern the development of big data, digital technology and digital economy, how enterprises to meet the requirements of national digital governance policies and laws and regulations in order to protect the digital security of themselves, customers and citizens, all these new issues under the new circumstances have brought revolutionary impact. Governments, enterprises and institutions need a large number of high-end composite talents with an international vision of digital governance. To meet the community's demands for high-end talents in digital governance, the Academy for Applied Policy Studies and Education Futures is launching a self-financing Master's programme: Master of Laws in Digital Governance [LLM (DG)].

This course will integrate policy, legal theory and digital governance studies to enable students to apply the policy, law and skills of governance in real digital world situations, thereby enhancing their ability to address the challenges of the digital economy and digital technologies in their practical work. The course will focus on exploring the impact of digital economy on national policies, laws and regulations, including promoting digital economy leadership, shaping pioneers in digital governance, bridging the knowledge gap between policies, laws and digital economy, cultivating interdisciplinary high-end talents, stimulating innovation and pursuing excellence.

Disclaimer
The University is committed to upholding the educational quality and standard of the programmes it offers. The University, being funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC), is one of the nine self-accrediting institutions in Hong Kong. In addition, the quality of the educational experience in all programmes offered by the UGC-funded universities is subject to the quality assurance process administered by the Quality Assurance Council of the UGC. Individuals who wish to apply for qualification certification in Mainland China after graduation should contact the CSCSE (website: https://zwfw.cscse.edu.cn/cscse/lxfwzxwsfwdt2020/xlxwrz32/index.html) directly for updated details and confirmation. The certification in Mainland China is an independent process from the conferral of academic qualification in Hong Kong by the University. For the avoidance of doubt, no warranties are given in respect of individual graduate’s qualification certification or recognition in Mainland China or any other professional qualification or license outside Hong Kong.

In the event of inconsistency between information in English and Chinese versions or where an interpretation of the programme content is required, the decision of the University shall be final.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained in this website. Changes to any aspects of the programmes may be made from time to time as due to change of circumstances and the University reserves the right to revise any information contained in this website as it deems fit without prior notice. The University accepts no liability for any loss or damage arising from any use or misuse of or reliance on any information contained in this website.

Any aspect of the courses and course offerings (including, without limitation, the contents of the course and the manner in which the course is taught) may be subject to change at any time at the sole discretion of the University if necessary. Without limiting the generality of the University’s discretion to revise the courses and course offerings, it is envisaged that changes may be required due to factors including staffing, enrolment levels, logistical arrangements, curriculum changes, and other factors caused by change of circumstances. Tuition fees, once paid, are non-refundable.

EdUHK, has not collaborated with any agency in Mainland China or Hong Kong on admission, and does not encourage students to entrust their applications to any third-party agents and we always contact applicants directly on updates regarding the applications. You must complete and submit your own application via the EdUHK online admissions system and provide your own personal and contact details. Please refer to the official EdUHK channels, such as programme websites and the admissions system, for the required information to complete your application.

Important Notes for Students from Mainland China on Overseas Credential Evaluation (國(境)外學歷學位認證)

Students who have fulfilled the programme requirements will be conferred the degree upon the approval of the University's Academic Board. The University bears no responsibility for the evaluation of its degrees outside of Hong Kong. Students are advised to consult with the relevant authority(ies) for the prevailing rules/regulations.

Individuals who would seek qualification certification in Mainland China after graduation should contact the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) 中國(教育部) 留學服務中心 (https://www.cscse.edu.cn) for updated details.

The certification in Mainland China is an independent process from the conferral of academic qualification in Hong Kong by the University. For the avoidance of doubt, no warranties are given in respect of individual graduate's qualification certification or recognition in Mainland China or any other professional qualification or license outside Hong Kong.

CSCSE takes a very prudent approach in evaluating each application, including the students' residential period in Hong Kong during the entire study period. When evaluating graduates' credentials, the full border entry and exit records of individual applicants will be examined.

Students who would pursue credential recognition should be aware that short stays in Hong Kong during the study period may not fulfil the CSCSE residential requirements, leading to possible uncertainty and risks to their credential recognition.

Students are seriously advised to consider the above when making personal plans, such as accommodation and travel plans from Hong Kong, etc. and make necessary arrangements where appropriate.

It is the responsibility of the students to be familiar with and comply with the University regulations and guidelines governing the Taught Postgraduate Programmes. Students should refer to the Graduate School website for the General Academic Regulations and the Code of Practice for Taught Postgraduate Programmes for details.

Students should consult with CSCSE if they have any enquiries.

Programme Features

Linking the Policy, Law and Education in Digital Economy

The unique feature of this new curriculum is that it connects laws and regulations related to big data, artificial intelligence, computer technology, information technology, platform economy, self-media, and digital economy with policies, administrative management, corporate governance, intellectual property, data privacy protection, cybersecurity, and cybercrime, and these two important areas will enable students to become professionals, senior managers in governmental organs, digital compliance managers and consultants in enterprises, lawyers and legal professionals in the field of digital economy, academics or senior researchers in the rapidly developing digital world. The program aims to enhance students' policy and legal literacy in artificial intelligence and digital economy, enabling them to become interdisciplinary experts and prepare them for the increasingly dynamic future of the digital economy.

Prospective Students

This programme aims to attract university graduates who are interested in working in the digital economy administration and legal services industries, or working as professionals and teachers of digital economy, administration, business management and law, to help them understand the policy and legal developments in global digital governance.

Future Career Development

Become a Leader of Digital Governance in Policy and Law and Open up more Possibilities for Future!

This course aims to develop and enhance the potential of individuals to become future leaders in the digital age:

Digital Economy Policy and Law Professionals: working in governmental organs, public institutions, enterprises, digital business consulting agencies, law firms, etc., applying policy and legal theories and skills in the field of digital economy to digital industry, management and public strategy.
Lawyers, Legal Professionals and officials in the Field of Digital Law: On the one hand, in order to meet the compliance requirements of digital governance policies and laws, enterprises need to hire a large number of legal professionals who are proficient in digital technology and digital economy governance policies and laws, while on the other hand, law firms also need a large number of professional lawyers who are proficient in digital technology and digital economy.
Network Journalists, Editors and Producers: personnel of news agencies, self-media and production companies, reporting news online and producing new media content, need to meet the policies, legal provisions and requirements of digital governance.
Academic or Further Education: Those who may choose to pursue a PhD in digital technology, administration, economic management, law and other related fields, and work as a teacher or researcher at a university.

Programme Aims

To equip students with the daily application of administrative management and legal theory and practical knowledge in the digital economy era;
To cultivate students' ability to cope with administrative management, enterprise management, compliance management, risk control and legal thinking and analysis in the era of digital economy;
To enhance students' professional competence and confidence to meet the needs of diverse learners and future leaders in the field of digital governance and law;
To develop students' curiosity and creativity in exploring the potential of policy measures and legal actions for the governance of the digital economy.

Programme Structure

The LLM (DG) (One-year Full-time) is a 24-credit-points (cps) programme. Students need to complete 24 credits in order to graduate. Each course bears 3 credits (if students choose to do Independent Research, the course bears 6 credits). Students need to complete 4 core courses and 4 elective courses (or two elective courses and one Independent Research course).

Programme Curriculum

Core Courses (12cps)
3cps	LAW6001 The Law, Policy, and Governance in Global Digitalization This course explores the intricate relationship between law, policy, and governance in the context of global digitization. As digital technologies continue to transform societies worldwide, understanding the legal and policy frameworks that govern these changes is crucial. The course provides a comprehensive examination of the challenges and opportunities presented by digitization, focusing on how laws and policies can adapt to ensure effective governance.
3cps	LAW6002 Artificial Intelligence Literacy and Digital Competency for Legal Professionals and Executives The "Artificial Intelligence Literacy and Digital Competency for Legal Professionals and Executives" course is specifically designed for legal professionals seeking an exploration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and other emerging technologies, along with their diverse applications within the legal field. This course places a strong emphasis on fundamental AI concepts, including the key principles of machine learning and deep learning, with the ultimate goal of fostering AI literacy among legal professionals. Moreover, the course aims to equip legal practitioners with the necessary skills to effectively leverage AI as a productivity tool across various legal domains. The course provides a systematic examination of how AI technologies, such as natural language processing, machine learning, and data analytics can be utilized to refine and enhance legal practices. Additionally, the course introduces a range of emerging technologies, including blockchain, the metaverse, and industry cloud computing, while delving into the underlying legal and ethical considerations associated with them. In-depth discussions and critical analyses are conducted regarding the legal and ethical implications, as well as the potential impacts, of AI and related emerging technologies on legal practices.
3cps	LAW6007 Administrative Law in Digital Era The "Administrative Law in Digital Era" course examines the impact of digital technologies on administrative law. It covers the principles of administrative law, the challenges and opportunities presented by digital transformation, and the regulatory responses to technological advancements. The course aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of how digitalization affects administrative processes and the legal frameworks that govern them.
3cps	LAW6008 National Security and Informational Security This course provides a comprehensive overview of the legal frameworks that govern national security issues within a country. It aims to facilitate students to acquire basic legal knowledge of the national security laws in order to consciously safeguard national security. It examines the balance between national security interests and individual rights, focusing on topics such as the use of military force, intelligence operations, cybersecurity, and counterterrorism measures.

Elective Courses (12cps) (Choose from the following 7)
3cps	LAW6003 Artificial Intelligence, Entrepreneurship and Law This course delves into the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI), entrepreneurship, and law, providing a comprehensive understanding of how AI technologies are transforming business landscapes and legal frameworks. It is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the legal challenges and opportunities presented by AI in entrepreneurial ventures. The course covers the legal implications of AI, the role of law in fostering innovation, and the ethical considerations in deploying AI technologies.
3cps	LAW6004 Intellectual and Data Property Law The "Intellectual and Data Property Law" course is designed to provide students with a thorough understanding of the laws that protect creative works and innovation. The course covers the fundamental principles of intellectual property (IP) law, including patents, copyrights, trademarks, and trade secrets. The course explores the economic analysis of intellectual property law, with a special emphasis on the Law and Economics of informational goods in light of the technological revolution. In recent years there has been massive growth in the Law and Economics literature focusing on intellectual property, on both normative and positive levels of analysis. The economic approach to intellectual property is often described as a monolithic, coherent approach that may differ only as it is applied to a particular case. The economic discourse used in legal scholarship and in policymaking encompasses several strands, each reflecting a fundamentally different approach to the economics of informational works, and each grounded in a different ideology or methodological paradigm. Students will learn about the legal mechanisms used to safeguard inventions, literary and artistic works, symbols, names, and images used in commerce from an aspect of digital scenario.
3cps	LAW6005 Basic Law of HKSAR and Digital Regulation This course provides an in-depth exploration of the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and its implications for digital regulation. The Basic Law serves as the constitutional document for HKSAR, outlining the region’s legal framework, political structure, and fundamental rights. This course examines how the Basic Law interacts with digital regulation, addressing the challenges and opportunities presented by digital technologies in the context of Hong Kong’s unique legal environment.
3cps	LAW6009 Personal Information Protection and Privacy Law The "Personal Information Protection and Privacy Law" course examines the legal frameworks and principles surrounding the protection of personal information and privacy in various jurisdictions. It covers the fundamental aspects of data protection laws regulatory approaches, and the challenges posed by emerging technologies and provides an understanding of the Fair Information Principles and the laws and regulations that govern data protection. The course aims to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of privacy laws, their application, and the implications for individuals and organizations. Students will learn about the historical context of privacy laws, the obligations of organizations to safeguard personal information, and strategies for managing compliance issues related to privacy laws and data protection.
3cps	LAW6010 Cyber Criminal Law and Practice in Hong Kong This course provides a comprehensive examination of cyber-criminal law and its practical applications within the context of Hong Kong. As cybercrime continues to evolve, understanding the legal frameworks and practical measures to combat these crimes is crucial. The course covers key areas such as the classification of cybercrimes, legal responses, investigative techniques, and the prosecution of cybercriminals, all tailored to Hong Kong’s legal environment. Students will gain an understanding of the challenges and strategies involved in addressing cybercrime in the digital age.
3cps	LAW6011 Platform Regulation The "Platform Regulation" course explores the regulatory frameworks and principles governing digital platforms. It examines the legal and policy challenges posed by major digital platforms like social media, search engines, and e-commerce sites. The course aims to provide students with an in-depth understanding of platform regulation, including issues related to competition law, content moderation, data protection, and consumer protection. The curriculum covers the design, governance, and strategic challenges of platforms, including network effects, regulation, and competition law. Students will also analyse the societal implications of the platform economy, such as labor issues and data privacy. Through case studies and guest lectures from industry experts, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how platforms operate and compete, as well as the skills to innovate within this dynamic sector of the economy.
6cps	LAW6006 Independent Research This course offers students the opportunity to engage in independent research under the supervision of a faculty member. It is designed to allow students to explore a specific legal topic of interest in depth, develop advanced research skills, and produce a substantial research paper in Chinese (中文). The course emphasizes self-directed learning, critical thinking, and scholarly writing, providing a foundation for future academic or professional work.

Medium of Instruction

The medium of instruction is mainly Putonghua supplemented with English.

Study Location

Classes in the same or different semester(s) may be scheduled on weekday daytime/evenings, weekends and/or during long holidays at the Tai Po Campus / Tseung Kwan O Study Centre / North Point Study Centre / Kowloon Tong Satellite Study Centre and/or other locations as decided by the University.

In the event of inconsistency between information in English and Chinese versions or where an interpretation of the programme content is required, the decision of the University shall be final.

Important Notes for Students from Mainland China on Overseas Credential Evaluation (國(境)外學歷學位認證)

Students who have fulfilled the programme requirements will be conferred the degree upon the approval of the University's Academic Board. The University bears no responsibility for the evaluation of its degrees outside of Hong Kong. Students are advised to consult with the relevant authority(ies) for the prevailing rules/regulations.

Individuals who would seek qualification certification in Mainland China after graduation should contact the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) 中國(教育部) 留學服務中心 (https://www.cscse.edu.cn) for updated details.

The certification in Mainland China is an independent process from the conferral of academic qualification in Hong Kong by the University. For the avoidance of doubt, no warranties are given in respect of individual graduate's qualification certification or recognition in Mainland China or any other professional qualification or license outside Hong Kong.

CSCSE takes a very prudent approach in evaluating each application, including the students' residential period in Hong Kong during the entire study period. When evaluating graduates' credentials, the full border entry and exit records of individual applicants will be examined.

Students who would pursue credential recognition should be aware that short stays in Hong Kong during the study period may not fulfil the CSCSE residential requirements, leading to possible uncertainty and risks to their credential recognition.

Students are seriously advised to consider the above when making personal plans, such as accommodation and travel plans from Hong Kong, etc. and make necessary arrangements where appropriate.

It is the responsibility of the students to be familiar with and comply with the University regulations and guidelines governing the Taught Postgraduate Programmes. Students should refer to the Graduate School website for the General Academic Regulations and the Code of Practice for Taught Postgraduate Programmes for details.

Students should consult with CSCSE if they have any enquiries.

Entrance Requirements (*Subject to the University’s Approval)

1. General Requirements

Recognised Bachelor's Degree or other equivalent qualifications.
Applicants who obtained degrees from universities in Mainland China are required to provide:
- Degree Certificate and Online Verification Report of Higher Education Degree Certificate issued by the CHSI with a validity period of six months;
- Graduation Certificate and Online Verification Report of Higher Education Qualification Certificate issued by the CHSI with a validity period of six months; and
- Final Transcript.

2. Work Experience

Preference will be accorded to individuals boasting over two years of professional experience, particularly those who have refined their expertise in mid-level to senior management positions.

3. English Language Proficiency Requirements

Applicants from institutions where English is not the medium of instruction are required to demonstrate English proficiency that meets the programme’s established standards. They should have attained scores in one of the following recognised English proficiency tests as indicated:
i. Overall score of IELTS 5.5 (academic version)^#;
ii. TOEFL score of 59 (internet-based test)^#;
iii. Band 6 in the College English Test (CET)^#with a total score of 430;
iv. Grade C or above in GCSE/GCE O-Level English; or
v. Other equivalent qualifications on a case-by-case basis.

# The test should be taken in test centres and the result should be valid within two years. For example, if you are applying for 2026/27 academic year, your IELTS / TOEFL / CET6 test must be obtained on or after 1 January 2024.TOEFL Home Editions, TOEFL MyBest Score, IELTS Indicator, IELTS Online, IELTS One Skill Retake, Duolingo and National Postgraduate Entrance Examination (全國碩士研究生招生考試) are NOT acceptable.

4. Chinese Language Proficiency Requirements

Applicants who obtained a bachelor’s degree from an institution outside of Hong Kong, Mainland China, Taiwan and Macau should have attained scores in one of the following Chinese Language or Chinese-related examinations:
i. Level 3 / Grade E in Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (HKDSE) / Hong Kong Certificate of Education Examination (HKCEE) / Hong Kong Advanced Level Examination (HKALE);
ii. A score of 110 in the Joint Entrance Examination for Universities in the People’s Republic of China (JEE / Gaokao)(full marks 150);
iii. Grade E or above in GCE A-Level/AS-Level;
iv. Grade 4/Grade C or above in GCSE/IGCSE/GCE O-Level
v. Grade 4 or above in International Baccalaureate (IB); or
vi. Other equivalent qualifications on a case-by-case basis.

5. Interview

Shortlisted applicants are required to attend an admission interview.

6. Supplementary Documents

Applicants are also required to submit supplementary documents through online application system:

Two Referee’s Reports

Applicants are required to invite two referees to complete the Referee's Report through the "Confidential Report/References" section in the online application system, or to write a Reference Letter.

Two Personal Statements

Applicants are required to submit two Personal Statements describing their interest in and motivation for this programme: one statement of 1,000 words composed in Chinese and one statement of 800 words composed in English, both of which must be uploaded through the official online application system.

Tuition Fee

The tuition fee (2026/2027 Cohort) is HK$209,000 (24 cps) for the whole programme, which is provisional and subject to adjustment. Tuition fees paid are normally not refundable or transferable. Students who still need to take courses to meet graduation requirements beyond the regular study period (one year for full-time) will need to pay a fee for extended study.

The University reserves the right to make changes to tuition fee without prior notice.

Application and Enquiries

Interested applicants please submit your application via EdUHK Online Application Systems. Prior to your submission, please visit https://www.eduhk.hk/acadprog/postgrad.html for detailed application and admission information.

Should you have enquiries, please do not hesitate to email us at: llmdg@eduhk.hk

In the event of inconsistency between information in English and Chinese versions or where an interpretation of the programme content is required, the decision of the University shall be final.

Important Notes for Students from Mainland China on Overseas Credential Evaluation (國(境)外學歷學位認證)

Students who have fulfilled the programme requirements will be conferred the degree upon the approval of the University's Academic Board. The University bears no responsibility for the evaluation of its degrees outside of Hong Kong. Students are advised to consult with the relevant authority(ies) for the prevailing rules/regulations.

Individuals who would seek qualification certification in Mainland China after graduation should contact the Chinese Service Centre for Scholarly Exchange (CSCSE) 中國(教育部) 留學服務中心 (https://www.cscse.edu.cn) for updated details.

The certification in Mainland China is an independent process from the conferral of academic qualification in Hong Kong by the University. For the avoidance of doubt, no warranties are given in respect of individual graduate's qualification certification or recognition in Mainland China or any other professional qualification or license outside Hong Kong.

CSCSE takes a very prudent approach in evaluating each application, including the students' residential period in Hong Kong during the entire study period. When evaluating graduates' credentials, the full border entry and exit records of individual applicants will be examined.

Students who would pursue credential recognition should be aware that short stays in Hong Kong during the study period may not fulfil the CSCSE residential requirements, leading to possible uncertainty and risks to their credential recognition.

Students are seriously advised to consider the above when making personal plans, such as accommodation and travel plans from Hong Kong, etc. and make necessary arrangements where appropriate.

It is the responsibility of the students to be familiar with and comply with the University regulations and guidelines governing the Taught Postgraduate Programmes. Students should refer to the Graduate School website for the General Academic Regulations and the Code of Practice for Taught Postgraduate Programmes for details.

Students should consult with CSCSE if they have any enquiries.