As decided in The New Academic Structure for Senior Secondary Education and Higher Education – Action Plan for Investing in the Future of Hong Kong (May 2005) by the Education and Manpower Bureau, starting from 2009, all senior secondary students will be required to take Liberal Studies (LS) as the fourth core subject in addition to the three core subjects of Chinese Language, English Language, and Mathematics in the new senior secondary (NSS) curriculum. They will be assessed in 2012 by the first Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination. How to help schools change from the current system, with Integrated Humanities and Science and Technology for Forms 4-5, and Liberal Studies for Forms 6-7, to the more desirable form of general education in which NSS LS is a key element, requires practical wisdom informed by a thorough understanding of the foundations of education, including professional-practical knowledge.

The Master of Arts Programme in Curriculum Development and Teaching of Liberal Studies aims to strengthen the pedagogy and leadership of teachers in LS through enhancing their capacity and understanding of general education in the context of the current educational reforms. The Programme is geared towards nurturing a critical understanding of the nature and functions of LS in the NSS curriculum as prescribed in Liberal Studies: Curriculum and Assessment Guide (Secondary 4-6) (2007) and an inquisitive mind on its development. Simultaneously it will equip LS teachers and aspiring LS leaders with the necessary knowledge and pedagogic skills in the three constituent areas of studies of LS and Independent Enquiry Studies. The Programme also offers chances for participants to reflect on values and attitudes involved in LS.