On 2 April 2026, the Department of Economics and Finance hosted a compelling briefing seminar themed “Invest in Your Future: The Premier BBA for Finance and Banking & Real Estate Finance and Investment (RICS Accredited).” The event offered students a comprehensive look at the newly available Real Estate Finance and Investment Minor—a specialised pathway designed to enhance the BBA-FB programme with industry-aligned knowledge, practical skills, and globally recognised credentials from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Opening the Door to Professional Excellence
The seminar opened with Dr Ben Cheng introducing the Real Estate Finance and Investment Minor—an RICS-accredited pathway that seamlessly integrates core Finance & Banking disciplines with advanced real estate investment strategies. Dr Cheng demonstrated how this interdisciplinary approach equips graduates with a distinct competitive edge in today’s dynamic job market.
A World of Opportunity with RICS
Representatives from the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) took to the stage to demystify the path to chartered status. Mr Justin Yu, RICS HK Regional Board Member and Assistant General Manager at Sino Group, alongside Ms Clio Lee, RICS Candidate & Early Years Engagement Specialist, shared compelling insights into the profession’s global standing, rigorous ethical framework, and the career advantages of achieving MRICS designation. They walked students through the Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) process, highlighting how chartered status can significantly boost earning potential—RICS data indicates chartered professionals earn up to 38% more than their non-accredited peers.
Real-World Learning: The IFC Hong Kong Case Study
The seminar’s highlight was a masterclass by Professor Patrick Kwok, Executive Director of Henderson Land and Adjunct Professor at The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong. Titled “Joining the Dots Between Finance & Banking and Real Estate: Term Loans & Financial Covenants”, his presentation dissected a landmark case study: the International Finance Centre (IFC) in Central, Hong Kong. Students gained invaluable exposure to institutional project financing, loan structuring, and financial covenant analysis—effectively bridging classroom theory with complex, real-world development practice.
Building Futures, One Seminar at a Time
This briefing reflects the Department’s ongoing commitment to bridging academia and industry. By fostering direct engagement with professional bodies and industry leaders, we ensure students graduate not only academically rigorous but also career-ready. For prospective students seeking a forward-looking, industry-integrated business education, the EAF Department continues to deliver a premier pathway to success.
