Since its inception in 1991, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology HKUST MBA has been leaving an indelible mark on the world of education and business. Nestled along the waterfront, its breathtaking campus has been the breeding ground for top-notch talent and groundbreaking research. Notably, HKUST’s MBA program earned a coveted spot among the world’s top 20 business schools, a position it has consistently maintained since 2007, according to the Financial Times. Moreover, The Times Higher Education Ranking has acclaimed HKUST as the premier university globally under 50 years old.
What sets HKUST apart from the rest lies not just in its impressive accolades, but also in its unwavering commitment to embracing the future. As a relatively young institution by higher education standards, HKUST is deeply rooted in exploring cutting-edge fields such as Computer Science, Environmental Responsibility, and Fintech. The institution’s forward-looking approach ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving business landscape.
HKUST’s strategic location, within close proximity to the thriving financial powerhouse of China, is a tremendous advantage for students. This proximity affords them a unique opportunity to gain insights into the intricacies of the Chinese economy, immerse themselves in its business practices, and tap into the institution’s extensive network of employers both locally and globally.
As we delve into this blog, we will unveil the exceptional qualities that make HKUST far more than just an ordinary business school. HKUST promises an unparalleled educational journey that shapes the leaders of tomorrow. Let’s explore the remarkable attributes that define HKUST as a trailblazer in higher education and business excellence.
MBA PROGRAMS AT HKUST
HKUST offers a diverse range of MBA programs tailored to cater to the needs of various aspiring professionals. Whether you are an international student seeking a career switch, a working professional aiming to enhance your skills alongside work commitments, or someone looking for a flexible learning option, HKUST has the perfect MBA program for you.
1. Full-Time MBA:
The Full-Time MBA program at HKUST is designed for international students in the early stages of their career development. It caters to individuals planning for a career switch, seeking international exposure, or aiming to expand their career prospects in Hong Kong and throughout Asia.
Accelerated MBA – Accelerated 12-month MBA is ideal for students who want to minimize the time needed to complete their degree, especially for those who are studying under company sponsorship.
Although full-time summer internships and full-term exchange programs are off the cards for accelerated MBA students, part-time internships are a wonderful option to test your mettle.
Standard MBA – 16-month full-time MBA program is the standard program designed for students who desire international exposure or wish to expand their career opportunities through full-time summer internships.
As part of the program, you will have the opportunity to participate in an optional full-term overseas exchange at one of our partner schools worldwide.
Credit Requirements: Both options have the same credit requirements, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.
Tuition Fee: The tuition fee remains the same for both study modes, offering students flexibility based on their preferences and needs.
2. Part-Time MBA
The Part-Time MBA program is tailored for working professionals who wish to gain knowledge, and skills, and build networks while balancing their current career commitments.
3. Digital MBA:
For individuals seeking the flexibility of online learning, HKUST offers the Digital MBA program, ensuring that location or other commitments do not hinder pursuing an MBA degree.
Program Features:
Digital Learning Mode: Delivered through innovative online platforms, enabling students to access course materials from anywhere.
Uncompromised Quality: Despite being a digital program, the degree remains prestigious and well-regarded.
Personalized Study: Students can manage their learning pace, accommodating other priorities while pursuing their MBA.
4. Exchange Program
The exchange program offers students a wonderful opportunity to gain international exposure and maximize their experience at HKUST. All students enrolled in the 16-month MBA program can apply to study for a full term at one of our partner schools in different countries. Conversely, each year you will find exchange students from these top business schools on our campus.
5. HKUST One Million Dollar Entrepreneurship Competition
Entrepreneurship is not just about ideas, but about putting them into practice to realize your dreams. Each year MBA students participate in this annual competition to test their start-up ideas. The competition judges are investors and industry experts, who will provide you with valuable advice and feedback throughout the competition. The cash prize can be used as seed money to further commercialize your inventions, and the winning teams from HKUST also get to compete with other teams across Greater China for a more comprehensive learning experience.
CURRICULUM
One of the most flexible curriculums in Asia is based on five career tracks. Your academic knowledge will be complemented by credit-bearing practicums and professional career activities that will give you an unparalleled edge. The curriculum is made up of 52 credits. You will gain about a quarter of your credits by studying the required core courses, and the remaining credits through flexible core, elective, credit-bearing practicums, and a variety of career services.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
- Academic Requirements – A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university
- GMAT/GRE – A satisfactory GMAT/GRE score.
- TOEFL/IELTS – Good TOEFL/IELTS results are required if English was not the medium of instruction in your undergraduate/postgraduate program. For English requirements, please refer to here.
- Work Experience – Full-time MBA: Minimum of 2 years full-time work experience.
- Letters of Recommendation – 2 letters of recommendation are to be submitted before the application deadlines.
- Application Fee: $128
- MBA Contribution – Ability to contribute to the MBA community during and after the MBA program
CLASS PROFILE
The MBA cohort typically represents a wide array of industries and professional backgrounds, providing a truly global learning experience.
The industry experience of students, before joining is also diverse, ranging from consulting, banking, and financial services to fashion and performing arts. About 90% are international students.
The average work experience for the full-time MBA is 6 years which ensures that students contribute richly to classroom learning by bringing forward their varied industry experience Peer-peer learning beyond the classroom is also facilitated through this.
The median GMAT score for the incoming class is 660.
43% of the class is female.
FEES AND SCHOLARSHIPS
Tuition fees for the program are $33,240 which covers tuition, textbooks, and course materials for some of the required courses, as well as some enrichment activities.
Tuition fee at HKUST already covers the exchange term credits. Exchange students will only need to pay their own travel & living expense, administrative fees and course materials. Travel and living expenses vary according to the location of the school and are excluded from the program fee above. Rental prices for off-campus shared living are subject to market fluctuation.
FULL-TIME MBA FEES –
SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID
Generous scholarships are offered to outstanding international candidates on a merit basis.
HKUST Professional Awards
Jebsen Scholarship (For permanent residents of Mainland China & Hong Kong)
“La Caixa” & Casa Asia Scholarship Program to Study an MBA in Asia (For Spanish nationals)
Indonesian Education Scholarship.
You can check out the detailed scholarships list available here.
PLACEMENT STATISTICS
At HKUST MBA, the Career Development Team delivers tailor-made career guidance, carefully assessing your strengths and weaknesses to suggest areas for enhancement while proposing actionable steps. Furthermore, they establish invaluable connections, linking you to an array of promising career opportunities.
- Each year, HKUST achieves high employment rates over 95% of each MBA class.
- The return on investment is huge given a mean salary after graduation of USD 72,630.
- Many students started their own companies this year, while many students joined startups and new ventures.
- 65% of students were placed in Hong Kong itself and 35% in the rest of the Asia, Europe and America.
- These are the key placement statistics.
For aspiring MBA students seeking a transformative educational journey, HKUST’s MBA programs offer a compelling opportunity. The remarkable placement statistics, high employment rates, and attractive mean salary after graduation reaffirm the immense value of an HKUST MBA.
In essence, HKUST is far more than just an ordinary business school; it is a beacon of excellence, preparing leaders of tomorrow with the knowledge, skills, and global perspective needed to thrive in an ever-changing world. With its forward-looking approach and dedication to fostering innovation, HKUST continues to leave an indelible mark on the landscape of higher education and business, solidifying its position as a premier university globally.
FAQs
What makes HKUST’s MBA programs unique?
Answer: HKUST’s MBA programs stand out due to their prestigious global rankings, forward-looking approach, and strategic location near China’s financial hub. The institution is committed to embracing cutting-edge fields, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving business landscape.
What MBA programs does HKUST offer?
Answer: HKUST offers several MBA programs to cater to different needs:
Full-Time MBA: Ideal for international students seeking a career switch or expanding their career prospects in Asia.
Part-Time MBA: Tailored for working professionals to balance their career commitments while gaining knowledge and skills.
Digital MBA: An online program for those seeking flexibility in pursuing their MBA.
What is the curriculum structure of the MBA programs?
Answer: The MBA curriculum at HKUST is based on five career tracks and offers flexibility through credit-bearing practicums and elective courses. The program consists of 52 credits, including core courses and a variety of career services.
What are the admission requirements for HKUST’s MBA programs?
Answer: The general admission requirements include a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, satisfactory GMAT/GRE scores, and good TOEFL/IELTS results if English was not the medium of instruction. Full-time MBA applicants should have a minimum of 2 years of work experience.
Can you provide some details about the class profile?
Answer: The MBA cohort at HKUST represents diverse industries and professional backgrounds, with about 90% being international students. The average work experience for full-time MBA students is 6 years, and the median GMAT score for the incoming class is 660, with 43% of the class being female.
What are the tuition fees for HKUST’s MBA programs?
Answer: The tuition fee for the Full-Time MBA program is $33,240, covering tuition, textbooks, and some course materials. Additional expenses such as travel and living costs for exchange programs are not included in the program fee.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
Answer: Yes, HKUST offers generous scholarships on a merit basis to outstanding international candidates. Some of the scholarships include HKUST Professional Awards, Jebsen Scholarship (for Mainland China & Hong Kong residents), and the “La Caixa” & Casa Asia Scholarship Program (for Spanish nationals). More details about available scholarships can be found on the HKUST website.
What are the placement statistics for HKUST MBA graduates?
Answer: HKUST boasts high employment rates of over 95% for each MBA class. The mean salary after graduation is around USD 72,630. Many students start their own companies, while others join startups and new ventures. The placements are not limited to Hong Kong, with 35% of students finding opportunities in other parts of Asia, Europe, and America.
