852 3469 2001 ppolmpp@ust.hk HKUST PPOL HKUSTPPOLMPP PUBLIC POLICY PROGRAM (MPP) ADMISSIONS NOW OPEN MASTER OF
The Hong Kong University of Science andTechnology (HKUST) is a dynamic, international research university in a relentless pursuit of excellence, leading advances in science, technology, business and humanities, and educating new generations of global front-runners. Since its of cial opening in October 1991, HKUST has established itself as an intellectual powerhouse, energizing the community’s transformation into a knowledge-based society, and securing a place on the academic world map in record-breaking time. In less than three decades, HKUST has risen rapidly in the global academic arena and has been ranked as one of the best universities globally by global university rankings. ABOUT HKUST #3 Young University Rankings 2024 TheTimes Higher Education #24 Global Employability University Ranking 2025 TheTimes Higher Education #44 World’s Top 1500 Universities 2026 (No.3 in Hong Kong) QS World University Rankings !
Our Master of Public Policy (MPP) is an interdisciplinary program that equips students with knowledge of the full impact of science and technology innovations and professional skills in the formulation and implementation of innovative solutions to current and emerging global challenges. Situated in HKUST, a leading university in science and technology, the program draws from research and teaching excellence from across a diverse range of disciplines to equip students with a set of core skills in data analytics, economic analysis and management to become effective policy professionals. Designed for students with diverse educational backgrounds, including social science, science, engineering, business, and other elds of study, this two-year full-time program consists of a core curriculum, a client-based policy analysis project and elective courses allowing students to develop their areas of specialization.The rst of its kind in Hong Kong, this program provides students with complete professional training that focuses on problem-solving skills with real-world cases and examples. The world is facing any number of dif cult challenges – from climate change, to the impacts of new technologies, to social inequality. In public policy, we often speak of the “complexity” of these challenges. But complexity is not a barrier; it is the terrain on which society operates. We cannot expect simple solutions in the spaces where systems meet values, where innovation meets equity, and where decisions and trade-offs must be made collaboratively. At the Division of Public Policy at HKUST, we embrace this terrain. Our work is rooted in the belief that policy is the hard work of improving society, where we are not just responding to problems, but working on shaping our futures. And to build futures for our community and world that are sustainable, inclusive, and resilient, we must engage in dialogue between science, society, and governance. Our faculty and students are committed to these futures, and to reach our goals, we work across boundaries— disciplinary, sectoral, and geographic. Some of us are modelling climate transitions; others are exploring the governance of AI, or rethinking urban resilience. What unites us is a shared commitment to re exivity: to questioning assumptions, surfacing values, and engaging with uncertainty rather than avoiding it. We believe that good policy is not only evidence-based, but value-aware. This Division is a space for joined-up thinking. We draw from engineering, economics, history, sociology, and environmental science to deepen our expertise and reach. Our postgraduate programs in Public Policy and Public Management train future policy leaders to go beyond technical expertise, equipping them with sharp strategic instincts and a deep sense of ethical purpose. We prepare our graduates to lead in systems they understand, and to question systems they seek to improve. I am optimistic about what lies ahead—not because the challenges are small, but because the capacity for thoughtful, collaborative, and courageous policymaking is immense. If you are curious, critical, and committed to making a difference, I invite you to explore our Division and join the conversation. Prof. Kira MATUS Acting Head, Division of Public Policy Our program places an emphasis on knowledge, analytical skills and managerial capacities that are highly transferable across sectors, issue areas and global regions. Graduates of the program may work as analysts, managers, researchers and consultants in a wide variety of organizations, including government agencies, non-pro t organizations and private sector business.The training provided by the program is particularly relevant for policy professionals in both public and private sectors seeking to advance their careers in industries at the frontline of science and technology advancements, such as information technology and telecommunications, environment, energy, health care, transportation and nance. CAREER PROSPECTS MASTER OF PUBLIC POLICY (MPP) 1
CURRICULUM ELECTIVE COURSES (24 CREDITS) Students have the opportunity to enhance their analytical skills through 24 credits of elective courses, which focus on today's most pertinent policy areas and applied analytical methods. While the Division of Public Policy offers a range of elective courses, MPP students may also have the chance to broaden their perspectives by taking courses from other schools/departments/divisions at HKUST. Please note that the availability to take these courses is subject to the approval of the course instructors, the course offering units, and the MPP Program Co-directors. The potential to access a diverse range of electives across the university is one of the unique strengths of the HKUST MPP, setting it apart from programs elsewhere. 2 To graduate, students must complete 48 credit hours, with most courses carrying three credits and involving three hours of weekly lectures. Each semester, students typically enrol in 12 to 15 credits, with approval from the Program Director required for the upper limit. This structure ensures a steady, immersive pace that allows students to absorb core concepts while applying them in collaborative and practical settings. CORE COURSES (24 CREDITS) The required core courses provide students with a grounding of the various perspectives, skills and tools that policy professionals must possess to develop and manage policies effectively. ・ Foundations in Public Policy ・ Microeconomics and Public Policy ・ Quantitative Analysis and Empirical Methods ・ Public Policy Analysis ・ Evidence in Public Policy ・ Public Management and Leadership ・ Policy Analysis Project (I & II)
As part of our commitment to interdisciplinary learning and regional collaboration, the Master of Public Policy (MPP) program offers students the opportunity to participate in a cross-campus exchange with the HKUST Guangzhou (HKUST(GZ)) campus. This initiative re ects HKUST’s “Uni ed University, Complementary Campuses” vision—bringing together the strengths of both locations to create a richer, more exible academic experience. Beginning in Spring 2026, eligible MPP students will be able to apply to spend their second term at HKUST(GZ), engaging with the MSc in Technology and Policy (MSc TP) program offered by the Innovation, Policy and Entrepreneurship (IPE) Thrust. This exchange is designed to deepen students’ understanding of how emerging technologies intersect with public policy, and to foster collaboration across the Greater Bay Area and beyond. At the Division of Public Policy, we believe that meaningful policy education extends beyond borders. That’s why we’re actively developing international student exchange opportunities for Master of Public Policy (MPP) students, with plans to launch in Spring 2027. These exchanges will offer selected students the chance to spend a semester abroad at leading institutions, immersing themselves in new policy environments, academic cultures, and global perspectives. Participants will be able to take elective courses that complement their specialization, engage with diverse faculty and peers, and explore how public policy is shaped across different regions and governance systems. CROSS-CAMPUS EXCHANGE WITH HKUST(GZ) GLOBAL EXCHANGE PATHWAYS (LAUNCHING SPRING 2027) 3 The Master of Public Policy program at HKUST offers a unique opportunity for future leaders to develop the interdisciplinary skills necessary for addressing both local and global challenges. Our program blends theoretical foundations with real-world applications, encouraging students to think critically and creatively about policy issues. With a strong emphasis on current topics and best practices in governance and sustainable development from around the world, participants engage in practical projects and collaborate with professionals from various sectors. Our experienced faculty members provide personalized guidance individually and through different mentoring programs, ensuring a rich learning experience that empowers you to drive positive change in public policy. Join us at HKUST and become part of a vibrant community dedicated to making a difference in the world. Dr. Marie N. Bernal Director, Master of Public Policy
1st TERM 2nd TERM ・ Public Policy Analysis ・ Evidence in Public Policy ・ Elective 2 ・ Elective 3 (12 credits) 3rd TERM ・ Policy Analysis Project I ・ Public Management and Leadership ・ Elective 4 ・ Elective 5 (12 credits) 4th TERM ・ Policy Analysis Project II ・ Elective 6 ・ Elective 7 ・ Elective 8 (12 credits) The PAE is a year-long, immersive experience where Master of Public Policy students work in small teams under faculty guidance to address real challenges faced by public, private, or non-pro t organizations. Anchored in a thematic focus—such as the 2025–26 emphasis on advancing the UN Sustainable Development Goals—students engage in deep research, stakeholder interviews, and policy analys to deliver actionable recommendations. The process demands critical thinking, professional collaboration, and clear communication, culminating in a client-facing report and formal presentation at the PAE Conference. More than a nal project, the PAE serves as a launchpad for careers in policy and public service, embodying the program’s commitment to interdisciplinary, applied, and impact-driven education. The Policy Analysis Project/Exercise (PAE) is the de ning capstone of the Master of Public Policy program, challenging students to transform classroom learning into real-world impact. Through client-based consulting and collaborative teamwork, students tackle pressing policy issues with rigor, creativity, and purpose. CLIENT-BASED POLICY ANALYSIS EXERCISE (PAE) PROGRAM STRUCTURE 4 ・ Foundation in Public Policy ・ Microeconomics and Public Policy ・ Quantitative Analysis and Empirical Methods ・ Elective 1 (12 credits)
Some of our PPOL Electives ・ Risk and Regulation ・ Policy Analysis and Design for Sustainable Development ・ Applied Demography ・ Comparative Social Welfare Policy ・ Environmental Policy and Natural Resource Management ・ Complex Systems for Policy ・ Technology, Innovation and Public Policy ・ Advanced Analytical Methods for Public Policy ・ Innovation and Sustainability ・ Finance, Financial Crises and Economic Development ・ Urban Economics and Urban Policy ・ Ethics and Public Policy ・ China and the World: Policies and Development Strategies ・ Local and Regional Development ・ Environmental Economics ・ Special Topics in Public Policy 5 I'm truly honored to join MPP, which is a powerful motivation for me to continue pursuing academic excellence. It acknowledges my past efforts in interdisciplinary studies and underscores my potential for future contributions to my eld as well as to community well-being. HU, Lingyi MPP Class of 2027 Bachelor Degree in Administrative Management (2025) Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications For more information about the courses we offer visit our Curriculum page following this link
Orientation and Preparedness This module is designed to welcome students to the program and familiarize them with the opportunities and expectations. It includes an introduction to the program, the division, and the faculty, along with workshops on writing and communication basics, library research skills, citation scholarship, and best practices in group work. Engagement This module encourages students to actively participate in talks, lectures, conferences, and symposia. Students are also expected to join outings and eld trips. An end-of-year awards ceremony and cocktail party provide opportunities for networking and celebration, as well as incentives to exceed the minimum program requirements. Our program is dedicated to equipping students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in their PPOL program and ultimately in the eld of public policy. This is achieved through a comprehensive course divided into four main modules: PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Career Development This module prepares students for their future careers. It includes sessions on interpersonal dynamics, career development workshops, internship programs and opportunities at HKUST, job searching for public policy and project management, resume and cover letter writing workshops, and academic writing workshops. Individual consultation sessions with top professionals are also available throughout the two semesters. Wellness This module aims to help students adjust (or readjust) to university life by providing advice, materials, and discussions on well-being and growth. Students will learn about stress and time management skills, and personal and professional development planning. By improving self-management skills, such as goal setting and relationship-building, students will be better equipped to succeed. 6
Starting in the 2021-22 academic year, we introduced the MPP Student Advisory Program.This program assigns a faculty member as an advisor to a small group of students.The aim is to enhance communication between faculty members and students by organizing various enrichment activities and luncheon talks. Through this program, advisors gain a better understanding of students’ study progress and concerns, enabling them to provide targeted advice and support.This helps improve students’ academic performance and fosters a deeper connection between advisors and students. Additionally, students can more easily approach a faculty member, ensuring they receive timely advice and assistance.This also encourages students to be more proactive in seeking advice on their academic needs. SUPPORTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT 7 ? Being at HKUST as part of the MPP program is incredibly exciting. I am eager to deepen my understanding, bridge theory with practice, and explore new paths in the eld of public policy! HUANG, Zhengxi Bachelor of Management in Business Administration (2025) South China Agricultural University
THE ONLY TWO-YEAR FULL-TIME MPP PROGRAM IN HONG KONG Our MPP is the only two-year full-time program in Hong Kong that provides comprehensive professional training to develop the skills and competencies essential for career success. Students will learn effective time management, enabling them to seek internship and career opportunities. Additionally, they will be well-prepared to apply for MPhil or PhD programs in public policy at both local and overseas universities, should they wish to pursue a research and academic career. WHY STUDY PUBLIC POLICY AT HKUST? 8 HKUST's public policy program takes an interdisciplinary approach to policy-making, drawing on insights from various elds, including economics, political science, and sociology.This approach allows students to gain a broad understanding of policy issues and develop a well-rounded perspective on policy-making. INTERDISCIPLINARY APPROACH Students have the opportunity to work with faculty members on research projects and gain hands-on experience in policy analysis and evaluation. RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES Trained in some of the best universities in the world, our faculty members have established themselves as leading scholars in their elds, and many of them have had extensive experience advising national government bodies, international organizations and major corporations. 100% of courses in HKUST are taught in English, enabling full access to world-class teaching and research across the university. Hong Kong is not only an international nancial center and a gateway to Mainland China, but also a part of the Greater Bay Area (GBA).The development of GBA offers exciting business and career opportunities. Enabling eligible students from outside Hong Kong to explore a myriad of training and career opportunities after graduation. A WORLD-CLASS FACULTY GREATER BAY AREA (GBA) DEVELOPMENT GUARANTEED 24-MONTH VISA TO WORK IN HONG KONG (IANG)
FACULTY PROFILE Dr. Marie N. BERNAL PhD in Public Policy, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Areas of Specialization • Risk regulation • Behavioral and cognitive science implications for public policy • Policymaking and policy dynamics Prof. King Lau CHOW PhD in Cell Biology, Baylor College of Medicine Areas of Specialization • Genetics • Evolutionary biology • Cellular and molecular mechanisms • Developmental biology • Sensory organ differentiation Prof. Michael Shih-Ta CHEN PhD in Economics, Cornell University MPP Director Faculties Acting Head, Division of Public Policy Prof. Anthony Bing-leung CHEUNG PhD in Government, London School of Economics and Political Science Areas of Specialization • Governance studies • Asian administrative reforms • Civil service studies • Para-governmental organisations and Privatisation • Public policy 9 Prof. Kira MATUS PhD in Public Policy, Harvard University Areas of Specialization • Innovation for sustainable development • Sustainable production and consumption / sustainable manufacturing • Green chemistry and engineering • Science advice in public policy • Regulation of emerging technologies • Sustainability science Dr Jeffrey CHOW PhD in Environmental and Natural Resource Economics, Yale University Areas of Specialization • Environmental and natural resource economics • Environmental policy and governance • Climate change and global environmental governance • Health policy • Big data and social science research Prof. Stuart GIETEL-BASTEN PhD in Historical Demography, University of Cambridge Areas of Specialization • Demography • Population policy • Ageing policy • Family policy • Health policy Prof. Donald How Tian LOW (Professor in Practice) Master in International Public Policy, Johns Hopkins University Areas of Specialization • Poverty and inequality • Big data and social science research • Development economics • Political economy of development • Population and policy issues in Asia Dr. Nicolo LUDOVICE PhD in History, The University of Hong Kong Areas of Specialization • Environmental health humanities • Environmental history • History of science, technology, and medicine • Public health policy • Food studies and policy ............................................................... ................................................................................... ...................................................................................... Prof. Alex Jingwei HE PhD in Public Policy, National University of Singapore Areas of Specialization • Comparative social policy • Policy innovation and entrepreneurship • Health policy and governance
Faculties 10 ....................................................................................... Prof. Masaru YARIME PhD in Economics and Policy Studies of Innovation and Technological Change, Maastricht University Areas of Specialization • Science, technology, and innovation policy • Public policy and institutional design for energy, environment, and sustainability • Innovation systems of smart cities • Sustainability science Prof. Pengyu ZHU PhD in Policy, Planning and Development, University of Southern California Areas of Specialization • Transportation policy • Economic development policy • Housing policy • Land use policy • Applications of Big Data in policymaking Prof. Yatang LIN PhD in Economics, The London School of Economics and Political Science Areas of Specialization • Environmental economics • Urban and regional economics • International trade • Economic growth and development Prof. Timothy SZE PhD in Jurisprudence, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS) Prof. Julien de TROULLIOUD de LANVERSIN PhD in Applied Physics, Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering, Princeton University Areas of Specialization • Nuclear policy • Nuclear nonproliferation and arms control • International security • Energy policy • U.S.-China collaboration in science & technology • Open-source science Prof. James Ka Lei WONG PhD in Government, London School of Economics Areas of Specialization • Environmental politics and policy • Theories of institutional design • Deliberative democracy and governance Prof. Yan XU PhD in Telecommunications Policy, University of Strathclyde Areas of Specialization • Technology and Innovation Management • Telecom Industry Development and Policy Open Innovation • Information Technology Policy and Standardization • Digital Economy Prof. Xiaofan ZHAO PhD in Public Administration, Tsinghua University Areas of Specialization • Climate Change, Energy and Environmental Policy and Governance • Theories of the Policy Process • Regulatory Enforcement and Compliance Prof. Ye QI PhD in Environmental Science, State University of New York and Syracuse University Areas of Specialization • Energy • Environment • Climate change policy • Governance for sustainability Dr. Michael TYRALA PhD in Asian and International Studies, City University of Hong Kong Areas of Specialization • World-systems analysis • Global offshore economy • Global tax governance • Political economy of development • Social psychology of late capitalism Prof. Xun WU PhD in Public Policy Analysis, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Areas of Specialization • Water resource management • Health policy • Anti-corruption • Policy design and innovations Dr Fangxin Francine YI PhD in Urban Development and Policy, National University of Singapore Areas of Specialization • Urban and land policy • City resilience • Risk management • Complexity and public policy Prof. Raul P. LEJANO PhD in Environmental Health Science, University of California, Los Angeles Areas of Specialization • Policy theory • Collective action • Relationality • Environmental governance • Resilience • Narrative analysis • Game theory Dr. Alvin LI PhD in Public Policy, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Areas of Specialization • Sustainable consumption • Public health policy • Public health policy • Policy communication for impact
All MPP students admitted to our program have demonstrated excellent academic performance, with many also possessing impressive internship or work experience. While many of our students have graduated from top universities in mainland China, such as Fudan University, Tsinghua University, Peking University, Renmin University of China, Zhejiang University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University, a wide range of universities and majors are well represented among our MPP students, signi cantly contributing to the diversity of learning in our program. We also have students who graduated from well-known overseas universities, such as the University of British Columbia, University of California (Irvine), University College London, and Monash University. Additionally, students from major universities in Hong Kong are well represented in our MPP program. STUDENT PROFILE Undergraduate Majors of Incoming 2025/26 Cohort 11 Accounting 5% Art 3% Business Administration 4% Economics 10% Humanities and Social Science 9% Finance 10% International Relations 4% Land Resources Management 3% Language 8% Media and Communication studies 4% Public Administration 25%
It is this evolving focus that led me to choose the Master of Public Policy program at HKUST PPOL as my second master’s degree. With the aspiration to be a researcher in the eld of international green governance, I aim to deepen my training in quantitative methods and gain more diverse perspectives on environmental and sustainable policy. WEI, Kangqiao Master in Laws (2024) Bachelor in Literature (2021) University of Chinese Academy of Social Sciences I am grateful as always for your dedications to the program and your recognition of my personal performance. I commit to making the best of my time here within the Division of Public Policy in HKUST. YANG, Yuzhe Bachelor of Social Sciences (2025) The University of Hong Kong 12
GENERAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY ・ A bachelor’s degree with second-class honors from a recognized institution, or an approved equivalent quali cation ・ English Language admission requirements set out by the University Applicants have to ful l English Language requirements with one of the following pro ciency attainments: Minimum Scores 80* 550 60 (total scores for Reading, Listening and Writing Sections) Overall score: 6.5 and All sub-scores: 5.5 Pro ciency Test TOEFL-iBT TOEFL-pBT TOEFL-Revised paper-delivered test IELTS (Academic Module) ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ・ While not required, applicants are encouraged to submit their GMAT/ GRE scores. ・ Interests and motivation: Applicants should make a strong case for their interest in pursuing a professional degree in public policy by submitting their statement of purpose about their interests and motivation. ・ Favorable consideration will be given to applicants with relevant working experience and (or) internships. ・ Selected applicants will be invited to face-to-face interviews or video conferencing/ phone interviews by the admission committee. TUITION FEE AND SCHOLARSHIPS Tuition Fee HK$320,000: This includes two years of full-time enrollment (for 48 credits total). SCHOLARSHIPS MPP Admission and Academic Excellence Scholarship Subject to funding availability, scholarships may be given to selected awardees based on academic and professional excellence. For further details, please visit The Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP) In addition, HKUST is one of the few Asian universities chosen by the Bai Xian Asia Institute (BXAI) as a partner university to offer the Asian Future Leaders Scholarship Program (AFLSP). Applicants who are non-local students from East, Southeast, and South Asia and admitted to MPP program may be considered for the scholarship program. For more details, please visit ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS Applicants are not required to present TOEFL or IELTS score if ・ Their rst language is English, or ・ They obtained a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from an institution where the medium of instruction was English. APPLICATION PROCESS All applicants should submit their application documents through to the Fok Ying Tung Graduate School (FYTGS) of HKUST. *Refer to the total score in one single attempt May 31, 2026 Early applications are strongly recommended as admissions offers will be made on a rolling basis. Late applications may be considered on a ¬rst-come- ¬rst-serve basis. Application Deadline for 2026-2027 Admission:
ENQUIRIES Website WeChat Instagram Linkedin MTPC-G23559 Find us on: Online Enquiry Form Division of Public Policy Tel: (852) 3469 2001 Email: ppolmpp@ust.hk Wechat: HKUSTPPOL The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong Fok Ying Tung Graduate School Web: https://fytgs.hkust.edu.hk/ The Hong Kong University of \Science and Technology Clear Water Bay, Kowloon, Hong Kong PPOL website
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