How many universities are there in Hong Kong? Comprehensive analysis of Hong Kong’s higher education system
As an international metropolis, Hong Kong not only enjoys a high reputation in the economic and financial fields, but its higher education system has also attracted much attention. In recent years, with the advancement of the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong's universities have continued to improve their global rankings and influence. This article will give you a detailed introduction to the number, distribution and characteristics of universities in Hong Kong, and attach structured data for reference.
1. Number and classification of universities in Hong Kong

There are currently 11 degree-awarding higher education institutions in Hong Kong, including 8 public universities funded by the University Grants Committee (UGC) and 3 self-financing institutions. The following are specific categories:
| type | quantity | Representative institutions |
|---|---|---|
| UGC funded universities | 8 schools | University of Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, etc. |
| Self-financing colleges | 3 schools | Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Hong Kong Metropolitan University |
2. List and characteristics of 8 public universities in Hong Kong
Hong Kong’s eight public universities enjoy a high reputation internationally. The following is a specific list and a brief introduction:
| University name | Establishment time | QS Ranking 2024 | Featured areas |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Hong Kong (HKU) | 1911 | 26 | Medicine, Law, Engineering |
| The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) | 1963 | 47 | Humanities and Social Sciences, Business, Traditional Chinese Medicine |
| Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) | 1991 | 60 | Engineering, Business, Science |
| Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) | 1937 | 65 | Design, hotel management, nursing |
| City University of Hong Kong (CityU) | 1984 | 70 | Creative media, data science, law |
| Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) | 1956 | 287 | Communication, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Art |
| Lingnan University | 1967 | 601-650 | Liberal Arts Education, Social Sciences |
| Education University of Hong Kong (EdUHK) | 1994 | Not participating in the comprehensive ranking | Education, Psychology |
3. Overview of three self-financing colleges in Hong Kong
In addition to public universities, Hong Kong also has three degree-awarding self-financing institutions, providing more choices for local students:
| School name | Establishment time | feature |
|---|---|---|
| Hang Seng University of Hong Kong | 2018 | Business majors, emphasizing the "liberal arts + professional" education model |
| Hong Kong Shue Yan University | 2006 | Hong Kong’s first private university, emphasizing holistic education |
| Hong Kong Metropolitan University | 1989 | Focus on distance education and adult education |
4. Characteristics of higher education in Hong Kong
1.High degree of internationalization: Hong Kong universities generally adopt English teaching, and teachers and students come from all over the world, creating a strong international atmosphere.
2.High degree of academic freedom: Hong Kong universities enjoy a high degree of academic freedom, and their research results are highly recognized internationally.
3.Close ties with the mainland: With the advancement of the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the cooperation between Hong Kong universities and mainland universities has become increasingly close.
4.Broad employment prospects: Hong Kong university graduates are quite competitive in the local and international job markets.
5. Hot topics in Hong Kong universities in recent years
1.Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area University Alliance: Many universities in Hong Kong have joined the alliance to promote regional higher education cooperation.
2.Online teaching development: After the epidemic, Hong Kong universities actively explored online and offline hybrid teaching models.
3.Transformation of scientific research results: Hong Kong universities strengthen the industrialization of scientific research results and support the development of local innovation and technology.
4.Non-local student admissions policy: Hong Kong universities are expanding their enrollment of mainland and international students to promote campus diversity.
Conclusion
Although Hong Kong is a small place, it has 11 degree-awarding higher education institutions, many of which are ranked high in the world. Hong Kong's higher education system not only retains Chinese cultural traditions, but also incorporates international education concepts, providing high-quality education options for local and overseas students. With the advancement of the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the development prospects of Hong Kong universities will be broader.
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