In response to evolving talent needs, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) continues to innovate its curriculum and enhance student support. Following last year’s launch of the Bachelor of Science (BSc) program in Biomedical and Health Sciences, which emerged as HKUST’s most competitive program in this year’s entrance exams, the university will introduce a mandatory Artificial Intelligence (AI) Common Core program next academic year, equipping students with essential knowledge and competencies in human-AI collaboration and AI applications. In addition, HKUST offers scholarships and student support initiatives on par with the city’s top universities, providing students with opportunities for enriching learning experiences through scholarships, study abroad support, and a wide range of personal and professional development programs.
AI Common Core Program for Future Innovators
To prepare students for the opportunities and challenges of the AI era, HKUST pioneered the “Major + To date, more than 1,450 students have enrolled in AI-related courses under this initiative.
To further strengthen AI education, HKUST promotes the concepts of human-AI co-creation and data literacy, and recognizes AI and intelligent agents as valuable partners in learning, research, and innovation. This initiative aims to develop students’ abilities to work effectively with AI, integrate knowledge across disciplines, and leverage AI technologies responsibly, critically, and creatively.
Starting in the 2026/27 academic year, all new undergraduate students will be required to complete a 6-credit AI Common Core program. The program consists of two parts. The first is “Fundamentals of AI Literacy: Human-AI Orchestration,” which introduces the fundamentals of human-AI collaboration. The second consists of AI Horizon courses offered by various schools and departments within the university, which focus on the latest developments and interdisciplinary applications of AI. Through real-world examples from a variety of disciplines, students will expand their understanding of AI and strengthen their ability to apply AI tools effectively.
The new program aims to equip students with the mindset and competencies needed to effectively leverage AI, understand and shape human and AI socio-technical systems, and communicate seamlessly in both human and AI-mediated environments, preparing them for success in the workplace and society of the future.
HKUST Associate Provost (Education and Learning) Professor Jimmy FUNG said: “AI is reshaping talent demands across industries. Today’s students are looking for more than just academic knowledge, they want an education that will help them succeed in an evolving society and workplace. HKUST’s new AI Common Core program is pioneering a new model of human-AI collaborative learning centered around the concept of ‘human-AI orchestration.’ Students will not only learn how to use AI tools, but also how to integrate the complementary strengths of humans and AI to drive innovation and address complex challenges. Through this six-credit program, students will develop strong AI literacy, critical thinking abilities, and interdisciplinary collaboration skills, enabling them to become adaptable, forward-thinking leaders capable of positively impacting a rapidly changing world. ”
Strengthening the curriculum to meet new needs
To support the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s vision of establishing Hong Kong as an international health and medical innovation hub, the Hong Kong Institute of Science and Technology launched a Bachelor of Science in Biomedical and Health Sciences program last year. This program exposes students to advanced diagnostic and disease modeling techniques and develops expertise to accelerate drug and therapeutic discovery in preclinical settings, thereby developing new talent for the medical and health industry. Based on Band A applications submitted during the first round of this year’s JUPAS program selection changes, the program recorded the highest applicant-to-participant ratio (7.52 per place) of all HKUST programs, underscoring its strong appeal and competitiveness.
Innovation and design are essential drivers of technological progress. The Bachelor of Integrated Systems and Design, Hong Kong’s first undergraduate program with a focus on experiential learning, offered by the Institute of Interdisciplinary Studies at the Hong Kong University of the Arts, will be renamed the Bachelor of Innovation, Design and Technology in the 2026/27 academic year. Through interdisciplinary training and project-based learning, this program provides students with expertise in emerging technologies, as well as a unique opportunity to integrate design, technology, and entrepreneurship.
Diverse scholarships to attract talented people
Professor Jimmy Huang further added, “As AI continues to reshape the global innovation landscape and workforce development, outstanding talent will continue to be the driving force behind future societal progress. HKUST attracts students with diverse backgrounds, outstanding potential, and innovative mindsets, and is committed to helping students engage in interdisciplinary learning and We are committed to supporting through a comprehensive scholarship system that allows them to focus on both academic and personal growth through international exchange. We look forward to welcoming more young people who want to use technology to make a positive impact on society.” Together, we will contribute to the development of Hong Kong, the nation and the world. ”
HKUST has long been committed to attracting and developing talented students through the Board’s portfolio of scholarship programs. Students admitted through JUPAS with excellent academic performance can receive a scholarship worth over HK$100,000 per year, covering full tuition fees and living expenses. The university also offers scholarships across science, engineering, business, humanities, social sciences, and interdisciplinary studies that recognize achievements in academics, innovation and entrepreneurship, sport, the arts, and leadership. To broaden students’ international horizons, HKUST also offers an overseas study grant of HK$10,000 for participation in student exchange programmes, overseas study trips and other global learning opportunities.
Strong prospects for further study and employment
Despite the rapidly changing employment landscape, HKUST graduates continue to excel in both employment and further education. Approximately 90% of the Class of 2025 found employment or continued further study immediately after graduation. The growing number of graduates choosing postgraduate studies and entrepreneurship reflects both their strong competitiveness and their desire to pursue diverse paths to future development.
Students interested in applying to HKUST can use the HKUST online JUPAS score calculator to calculate admission scores according to individual program weighting formulas and compare with past admission results to assess admission prospects.
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