Both Higher Diploma (HD) and Associate Degree (AD) are classified as sub-degree credentials. Higher Diploma (HD) programme put the curriculum emphasis on practical skills and vocation training which approximately 60% of the curriculum has been taken up. Associate Degree (AD) programme covers more general education and theoretical training, which occupy approximately 60% of the AD curriculum, to cultivate academic competence for further study. Both credentials are categorized in level 4 of Hong Kong Qualifications Framework (HKQF). Please visit the "Institution List" of Concourse to learn more about sub-degree programmes offered by inddividual instituions.

After completing either sub-degree programme, three articulation pathways to degree programmes at HKQF level 5 are available to graduates. Senior Year Admission places offered by UGC-funded programmes admit 5000 sub-degree graduates every academic year. It is considered the most popular option due to its higher local reputation. Local self-financed degree programmes or overseas universities are also possible options for graduate's further study.   

Source: Information Portal for Accredited Post-secondary Programmes

The Cross-Institutional Credit-transfer Information System (CICIS) mainly provides information on the 5000 senior year student intake of UGC-funded programmes. This platform is expected to facilitate the smooth adaptation into the new environment of SYA students and to facilitate the academic planning of sub-degree and senior secondary students with transparent credit transfer data.