The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) established the Department of Extramural Studies in 1965 and in January 2006, it was renamed as the School of Continuing and Professional Studies (CUSCS). Bearing the mission of providing quality continuing professional education programmes and services to meet the changing needs of society, the School offers a diverse range of courses and programmes at different levels. In 2009-10, more than 1,200 general courses and about 180 award-bearing programmes were offered with a total enrolment of about 40,000.

What CUSCS offers can be broadly categorised into general courses and award-bearing programmes.

General courses, normally lasting for two to four months each, have no specific admission requirement, and are generally for self-enrichment. Since 1979, CUSCS has been offering award-bearing programmes at advanced diploma, professional diploma, diploma, and certificate levels. These programmes have specific admission requirements and are designed in accordance with the guidelines and standards set by CUHK. These programmes lead to academic awards or professional qualifications for those who wish to enhance their skills and knowledge in their particular fields of study.

CUSCS courses and programmes cover a wide range of disciplines including Art and Design, Humanities, Creative Media, Music, Business and Management, Accounting and Finance, Social Sciences, Applied Sciences, Languages, Health Care, Information Technology and Technology Management as well as Nature and Environment.