HKUST Business School has been a trailblazer in MBA education in Asia for over 30 years. Anchored in the region yet globally oriented, we uphold world-class academic standards while cultivating visionary leaders equipped to thrive in today’s interconnected economy. Our program not only prepares leaders for the unique challenges of the region but also connects them to opportunities worldwide (seeing our alum relocating from east to west and east again), reflecting our commitment to shaping global business professionals. By pioneering MBA education in Asia and nurturing global talent, HKUST continues to shape leaders who drive innovation and impact worldwide
The founding faculty members- recruited from top business schools globally- launched our flagship MBA program to meet this need. The vision was clear: to cultivate adaptable, forward-thinking graduates who could navigate the complexities of the Asia-Pacific Region, capitalize on the opportunities in a technology-driven economy and leverage Hong Kong’s established strengths in finance and international trade.
To ensure the program achieved world-class standards of excellence, during the early days HKUST evaluated and adopted best practices from business schools around the world. HKUST’s faculty and staff also worked with seconded UCLA Anderson School of Management academic and administrative staff to set up the program on an accelerated schedule. From that foundation and drawing on our faculty’s expertise, HKUST developed an MBA program tailored for Asia, with a curriculum that emphasized a rigorous quantitative and analytical approach, complemented by a deep understanding of cross-cultural dynamics and practical leadership skills.
Early students were drawn to HKUST's unique proposition: a truly world-class MBA program incorporating global best practices and customized to develop leaders in Asia-Pacific. They recognized the program's forward-looking approach, its uniqueness in all of Asia, and its potential to unlock their leadership potential.
HKUST’s MBA program is rooted in a world-class research environment, offering more than just business fundamentals. Students explore topics like Responsible Leadership, Behavioral Economics, and Doing Tech in Asia and China—courses that reflect the region’s complexity and global relevance. Beyond the classroom, they engage with HKUST’s wider community through cross-disciplinary events, innovation networks, and resources that span science, engineering, and entrepreneurship. It’s a setting that sharpens leadership instincts and broadens perspectives.
Technology sits at the heart of modern business strategy. At HKUST, MBA students learn how AI, big data, blockchain, and other emerging tools are reshaping industries across Asia and beyond. The focus isn’t just on understanding the tech—it’s on applying it to solve problems, create value, and lead transformation. Through hands-on projects and exposure to HKUST’s tech ecosystem, students gain the confidence to make technology work for their goals.
HKUST’s MBA prepares students to lead in a fast-moving global economy. The curriculum blends core business knowledge with future-focused courses in strategy, finance, and ESG. Whether leading a startup, scaling a regional enterprise, or navigating financial markets, students build a strong foundation in decision-making, perspective taking, and innovation. With access to cutting-edge research and industry insights, they graduate ready to drive change with clarity and purpose.
At HKUST, students build on research and evidence-based management—they also learn from professionals who’ve led at the highest levels. Our faculty includes seasoned experts from global businesses and innovative start-ups who bring decades of hands-on experience into the classroom. They share practical frameworks, real-world insights, and strategic thinking that build on theory. It’s a rare opportunity to gain direct access to the minds behind major business decisions.
HKUST MBA students regularly hear from senior executives who’ve faced real challenges and driven meaningful change. These guest speakers come from a range of industries, offering firsthand stories of leadership, innovation, and decision-making under pressure. Their experiences bring business concepts to life and offer valuable lessons that students carry into their own careers.
For many HKUST MBA students, launching a startup isn’t just a dream—it’s a goal. Entrepreneurship is built into the structure and spirit of the program, supported by a university culture that values bold thinking and real-world impact. HKUST offers a robust ecosystem for aspiring founders, including the Entrepreneurship Center, HKUST Entrepreneurship Fund, and the Blue Bay Incubator in Shenzhen. These platforms provide mentorship, funding, and access to one of Asia’s most vibrant startup communities.
Discover what makes the HKUST MBA experience unique. Whether you join us online from anywhere in the world or visit our campus in person, each event offers a closer look at our program, our people, and the journey that could shape your future
