TLDR: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has launched its innovative “Major + X” curriculum, integrating core disciplines with high-demand fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainability. This initiative aims to equip over 1,300 students with interdisciplinary expertise, aligning with Hong Kong’s ambition to become a global AI hub and supporting national strategic plans. The program emphasizes practical skills, with a significant surge in “Major + AI” enrollment and successful student projects, such as an AI-powered pedestrian flow counting platform developed by a Global Business student.
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has introduced its pioneering “Major + X” curriculum, a transformative academic framework designed to prepare the next generation of professionals with critical expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Sustainability. This initiative directly supports Hong Kong’s strategic development as a global AI hub and contributes to the national 15th Five-Year Plan’s “AI+” initiative, which calls for scientific and technological revolution and industrial transformation.
Since its launch in the 2021/22 academic year, the “Major + X” program has already empowered more than 1,300 students with hybrid expertise. It allows students to combine their primary academic discipline with a specialized, high-demand field. Popular tracks include “Major + AI,” “Digital Media,” “Creative Arts,” and “Sustainability.” The Sustainability track, in particular, focuses on equipping students with the knowledge to apply Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles across various sectors, from green financial models to low-carbon engineering solutions and socially responsible business strategies.
Professor TAM Kar-Yan, Vice-President for Administration and Business and Chair Professor at HKUST, highlighted the program’s direct response to industry demands. “The introduction of ‘Major + X’ options directly addresses these industrial priorities and the Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address, which promotes the development of AI, data science, and green finance,” stated Prof. Tam. He further noted that job vacancies in related industries, especially for roles linked to Generative AI, surged by 40% to 100% in October 2025 compared to the previous year, according to insights from the HKUST Emerging Jobs and Skills Portal.
HKUST’s commitment to an open learning environment encourages students to explore emerging fields rather than imposing compulsory requirements. “Whether developing AI-powered solutions for finance or creating sustainable business models, our graduates are prepared to lead the way,” Prof. Tam emphasized. The “Major + AI” approach has seen a 70% increase in enrollment by the 2024/25 academic year compared to its inaugural year. The first cohort of over 220 “Major + AI” students has successfully completed capstone projects, applying AI to real-world problems within their disciplines.
An exemplary success story comes from Mr. CHAN Shing-Chung Sammul, a fifth-year student in the BBA in Global Business (GBUS) program with a focus on GBUS + AI. Sammul developed an AI-powered pedestrian flow counting platform, which has been officially adopted by an international jewelry brand to optimize store locations. Reflecting on his experience, Sammul shared, “The GBUS + AI program goes beyond the classroom, providing invaluable hands-on experience and practical skills that are highly valued by employers. This experience has not only sharpened my problem-solving abilities but also given me a competitive edge in the job market.”
HKUST continues to be recognized globally for its academic excellence, ranking 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024 and 19th Worldwide in Times Higher Education’s Impact Rankings 2025. Its “Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” subject holds the 17th place globally in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, maintaining its position as first in Hong Kong. The university’s strong focus on research and entrepreneurship is evident, with over 1,900 active start-ups founded by HKUST members as of July 2025, including 10 Unicorns.
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Prospective students interested in these innovative academic offerings are invited to HKUST’s Information Day on November 1 to learn more about the interdisciplinary modules and the “Major + X” curriculum.
