Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Hong Kong's only science and technology research university, HKUST, was founded in 1991. The idea of setting up such a specialised university was conceived about two decades ago when Chung Sze-yuen and then governor Edward Youde saw the pressing need to produce creative talent to work in a knowledge-based economy. Some 8,513 students are studying at HKUST and 5,519 are undergraduates. Focusing on training science and technology experts, the university employs mostly (80 per cent) Chinese specialists in academic posts. Its areas of excellence are information technology and business management. Although it is a science and technology-oriented university, students can opt for arts and humanities subjects to broaden their scope. Situated in Clear Water Bay, HKUST has six hostels for undergraduate students.

student's view

Owen Lee has just completed his second year as a chemical and environmental engineering major. His department is small relative to others in terms of student population. Mr Lee believes this is an advantage because a small class size helps him concentrate better. He said the intellectual environment at HKUST was very positive. 'Everyone is generally hard working. Sometimes you won't believe the number of people you see at the library a week or two before exams,' he said.