The Centre of Buddhist Studies of The University of Hong Kong (HKU) was established in September 2000 to provide a solid research and teaching base with the aims of systematising Buddhist studies, building it as a professional branch of knowledge, facilitating academic exchanges on Buddhist studies between China and the rest of the world, and fostering scholarly research development in Buddhist studies in both the east and the west. The Centre started to offer undergraduate courses in 2001 and master’s degree courses in 2002. It is the first university in Hong Kong to offer a master’s degree programme in Buddhist Studies with a focus on the practical application of Buddhist teachings in modern society.