(From left): Carmen Chan, Marouane Ziani and Matthew Allred, students of HKUST MBA program
As a leading institution in Asia, the HKUST Business School has earned its reputation as a hub of cultural diversity and academic excellence. With a student body comprising over 4,200 undergraduates from more than 50 nationalities and over 1,800 postgraduates representing over 30 nationalities, the school thrives on the power of diversity.
The school’s commitment to fostering a dynamic, multicultural environment makes it a premier destination for international students seeking a global perspective in business education. This commitment is particularly evident in two of its most celebrated programs: the MBA and the World Bachelor in Business (WBB).
The Global Appeal of HKUST’s MBA Program
HKUST’s MBA program, ranked No. 1 in Asia-Pacific by Bloomberg Businessweek and Poets & Quants International, is a beacon for aspiring business leaders worldwide. Recognized for its rigorous curriculum, strong industry connections, and world-class faculty, the program equips students with the innovative mindset, entrepreneurial spirit, and global perspectives required to drive change and lead in an interconnected world.
Associate Dean Professor Stephen SHIH emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity in the MBA program.
“At HKUST, we believe that diversity is not just a value—it’s a strength,” he explained. “Our students bring unique perspectives from across the globe, enriching classroom discussions and fostering a learning environment that mirrors the complexities of the modern business world. This diversity, combined with our cutting-edge curriculum and strong industry ties, prepares our graduates to tackle global challenges with confidence.”
This diversity is vividly illustrated through the experiences of students like Marouane ZIANI, a full-time MBA candidate from Morocco. Having worked across Africa, Europe, and Asia, Ziani chose HKUST for its intimate learning environment and global alumni network.
“The small class sizes create opportunities for meaningful interactions that larger programs can’t offer,” he said. “Through daily interactions with peers from diverse backgrounds, I’m not just learning about business—I’m developing the cross-cultural competencies essential for global leadership.”
For Carmen CHAN, a consultant from the UK, the decision to join HKUST’s MBA program represented both professional and personal growth.
“I wanted to upskill myself and plug gaps in my business knowledge,” she explained. Drawn to Hong Kong’s unique East-meets-West culture, Chan found her ideal fit in HKUST’s small cohort size and personalized career development support. “The program has not only strengthened my technical skills but also helped me build a strong network across Asia.”
Matthew ALLRED, a former military officer from the US, highlights the program’s ability to transform leadership experiences into business acumen.
“Asia is where global business is growing fastest, and HKUST puts you right at the center of this growth,” he said. For Allred, the diversity of his peers is one of the program’s greatest assets. “Learning alongside classmates from different countries and industries brings new perspectives to every discussion. It’s a unique advantage for anyone aiming to work in international business.”
The MBA program’s success in attracting students from varied professional and cultural backgrounds highlights HKUST’s strength as a melting pot of ideas, perspectives, and innovation. With its strategic location in Hong Kong and strong ties to Asian markets, the program has been offering unparalleled exposure to global opportunities, making it a top choice for international students.
The World Bachelor in Business: A Multinational Educational Journey
While the MBA program caters to seasoned professionals, the WBB program offers an equally compelling experience for undergraduate students.
Established in collaboration with the University of Southern California and Bocconi University in Milan, the WBB program is the first undergraduate partnership of its kind. Over four years, students study at all three institutions, gaining a truly global education and earning three diplomas.
“The WBB program aims to establish an unprecedented model to train students with global critical thinking in business education, preparing them for leadership roles in a globalized business world,” explained Professor Stephen NASON, Program Director at HKUST.
The program attracts students from a wide range of backgrounds from the Americas, Asia, Africa and Europe. This diversity creates a rich learning environment where students can engage with peers from across the globe.
Manuel ESPINAL from Honduras reflects on his experience: “In WBB, being surrounded by people with experiences just like mine, but from completely different cultures, has brought me closer to my roots.”
Similarly, Angela ZHOU from the US highlights the program’s unique structure: “Few college students have the opportunity to spend each year in a different country with classmates from a multitude of ethnicities and backgrounds making memories and friendships to last a lifetime.”
The WBB program’s emphasis on cultural immersion and real-world experiences equips students with the skills to navigate complex global challenges.
Giulia SAVINO from Italy shares, “WBB is not just a typical undergraduate program—it’s an incredible holistic life experience. It taught me how to live abroad, adapt to different contexts, and step out of my comfort zone.”
A Shared Vision for Global Impact
Whether it’s through the transformative leadership training of the MBA program or the multinational educational journey of the WBB program, the school continues to shape the future of global business education, one diverse cohort at a time.
By bringing together students from around the world, these programs create an environment where ideas flourish, perspectives broaden, and lifelong connections are formed.
As Professor Nason so rightfully sums it up: “Our goal is to nurture globally minded leaders who can thrive in diverse cultural and business settings.”
