The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) established the Department of Extramural Studies in 1965. In January 1994, the Department was renamed as the School of Continuing Studies and in January 2006, 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 2020-21, 77 award-bearing programmes and a wide variety of general courses, distance learning courses and corporate training courses were offered.

What CUSCS offers can broadly be categorized into general courses and award-bearing programmes. General courses, normally lasting for two to four months, 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. They will lead to academic awards or professional qualifications for learners who wish to enhance their skills and knowledge in their particular fields of study.