What's Happening
HKUST Business School Launches First Double-Degree Option in Canada in Partnership with Queen’s Smith School of Business
The HKUST Business School MSc Programs is excited to announce a new partnership with the Smith School of Business at Queen’s University, Canada. This collaboration introduces the first double-degree pathway in Canada and a new postgraduate exchange program, offering students exceptional opportunities to develop global business expertise and gain valuable international exposure.
The partnership was officially formalized at a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Signing Ceremony held on 27 October 2025, attended by senior representatives from both institutions.
A New Era of Global Opportunities
The double-degree program allows students to complete their first year of study at their home institution and their second year at the partner school. By the end of the program, students will earn two master’s degrees, equipping them with both specialized expertise and a global perspective.
The exchange program, on the other hand, provides students with the chance to experience the academic and cultural environments of both Canada and Hong Kong. This initiative promotes cross-cultural understanding and helps students build international networks, preparing them to navigate the increasingly interconnected world of business.
A Shared Vision for Global Leadership
Both HKUST Business School and Smith School of Business are united in their mission to create transformative learning experiences that empower students to excel in today’s globalized economy.
“Our collaboration with Smith School of Business is a testament to our shared commitment to nurturing global business talent,” says Prof. Yike Guo, Provost of HKUST. “Through the double-degree and exchange opportunities, we are equipping our students to thrive in today’s complex international business landscape. We also look forward to extending this partnership beyond the HKUST Business School, creating even broader opportunities for collaboration across HKUST.”
“At Smith, we’re committed to providing our students with a global perspective that prepares them to lead in a rapidly changing world,” says Lynnette Purda, Interim Dean, Smith School of Business. “This partnership with HKUST Business School opens doors for students to experience the best of both institutions and gain the tools and perspectives needed to succeed globally.”
What Students Can Expect
Students from both schools will gain a strong foundation in international business, complemented by specialized expertise in areas such as accounting, business analytics, economics, finance, global operations, information systems management, international management, or marketing. They will also have the opportunity to work with international peers, collaborate with faculty advisors, and access the career resources and networks offered by both schools.
Graduates will earn two prestigious master’s degrees—one from HKUST and one from Queen’s University—giving them a competitive edge in the global job market.
Looking Ahead
The first cohort of students will begin this innovative double-degree pathway in 2026. The signing ceremony marks an exciting new chapter in the long-standing partnership between HKUST Business School and Smith School of Business, strengthening efforts to nurture global business leaders and foster international collaboration.
