Diploma Programme in Catering Management 
(This programme will not be offered in 2024-25)
Catering industry in Hong Kong is always thriving with a large number of employment opportunities for the youths. According to the government data*, a relatively high proportion of young workers aged 15-24 are employed in the accommodation and food services industry. With the continual and reviving growth of the profession, market needs for well-trained workforce with professional knowledge and vocational skills are anticipated.
To echo this talent demand, CUSCS offers the Diploma Programme in Catering Management (DCM) with a cohesive combination of classroom learning and practical work experience to equip young and committed persons for joining the catering profession.
DCM takes on a work-integrated learning approach with components on language skills, communication and application, specialised knowledge and work placement at food and beverage establishments. This integral business exposure will allow DCM students to understand professional workflow process, apply acquired knowledge in authentic context, and explore possible positions that fit their career path. Synergising the academic and practical expertise, graduates could either join the field of food service and catering management or pursue further study at sub-degree level.
Specialized knowledge and skills to work as qualified practitioners in the catering industry
Rich variety of business exposure through the 240-hour work placement at food and beverage establishments
Enhancement of language and communication skills for joining career market and pursuing study
Exploration of potentials, interests and strengths to develop capacity for future career and personal development
46,683
Working youths in accommodation and food services sector
16.1%
Percentage of working youths
16,937
No. of establishments in food and beverage services
*Source: Census and Statistics Department ‘Hong Kong 2016 Population By-census – Thematic Report : Youth’, ‘Quarterly Report of Employment and Vacancies (Fourth Quarter 2021)’
Admission Requirements
- Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education (HKDSE) Examination with at least 6 points in the best 5 subjects plus Level 1 or above in English Language and Chinese Language; or
- Equivalent qualifications
Curriculum
The DCM Programme comprises 10 courses and a block of work placement with a total of 33 units. Students shall normally complete the programme in one year on a full-time basis.
Language Skills
- English Communication: Listening & Speaking
- English Communication: Reading & Writing
- Practical Chinese Writing
Communication & Application
- Information Technology Applications
- Interpersonal Communication Skills
- Career and Personal Planning
Catering Services
- Fundamentals in Food & Beverage Service
- Operations & Marketing in Catering Industry
- Customer Service Management
- Human Resource Management
Work Placement
- 240 hours conducted at food & beverage establishments
Module leading to professional qualification
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of DCM Programme, students will be able to:
- Demonstrate a solid foundation in language and communication skills for employment and further study;
- Develop interpersonal skills and digital competence essential for handling food service operations;
- Command knowledge and technical skillsets in food management through work placement in authentic catering industrial environment;
- Identify their potentials, interests and strengths as well as develop capacity for future career and personal development.
