From Hong Kong to the World: An International Career Starts With a CUHK MBA
The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Business School has been a leading name among Asian universities for quite some time now. Founded in 1963, the school’s mission is to blend East with West and tradition with modernity. It offers students an immersive experience in Hong Kong, offering direct access to dynamic Asian markets. Its Full-time MBA program, known as the CUHK MBA, reflects its stellar reputation. Roanne Law, the Assistant Director of the MBA Programs at CUHK, shares insights into how the CUHK MBA programs support ambitious professionals seeking global careers in Asia and beyond.
Why Study in Asia? How the CUHK MBA Blends East and West in Business
It is undeniable that CUHK Business School has an excellent location. Located in Hong Kong, it is a gateway to mainland China and the rest of Asia. Hong Kong is one of the world’s most dynamic business centers and financial hubs. This unique location places CUHK MBA students close to major employers and both local and international business headquarters. Roanne says, “This position offers students a lot of access to one of the most dynamic and rapidly evolving business environments in the world.” (00:38)
Roanne elaborates, “Being in Hong Kong, it allows students to immerse themselves in a melting pot of cultures, ideas, and business practices that really enhance their global perspective.” (00:48)
Moreover, CUHK is also one of the oldest business schools in the region. This means that they have a vast amount of experience in business education. CUHK MBA programs are guided by both global academic excellence and an Asian-centric focus. This unique blend in the CUHK MBA program specifically prepares MBA students to become global leaders, whether they choose to work in Asia or abroad.
A 12-Month MBA Designed for Career Momentum
The CUHK MBA Program (Full-time) can be completed in 12 months. This makes it an appealing choice for professionals who are eager to return to work after their studies. In essence, it is ideal for those looking for a fast-track study that will accelerate their career progress and prepare them for new global markets.
That being said, students who want more flexibility can extend their studies to up to two years. The curriculum mirrors traditional MBA formats, offering a wide range of elective courses and experiential learning experiences.
MBA Programs Designed Around You, Not the Other Way Around
Despite the short program length, there are plenty of opportunities to personalize the learning experience. Firstly, students have the chance to participate in a Business Practicum with real-world Hong Kong corporations. Students can complete their project in their preferred field of interest, including retail, transportation, healthcare, hotel and tourism, or property.
Additionally, students can choose between a General MBA program or six optional concentrations. These concentrations include Business Analytics, Entrepreneurship and Innovation, Information and Technology Management, Finance, China Business, and Marketing.
Elective course offerings include Application of AI in Finance, Current Fintech Trends, Managing Family Business, and more. All the MBA courses are primarily taught in English, making them easily accessible.
Experiential Learning That Goes Beyond Borders
Experiential learning is a central component of the CUHK MBA experience. Students gain hands-on experience that blends theory with real-world applications. For instance, MBA students go on business field study trips to Greater China, Asia, Europe, and the United States.
This year, students went on trips to Singapore and New York City. These study trips typically last around 5 days. On these study trips, students meet with international faculty from prestigious schools such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), visit global companies like Google, and network with locally based alumni.
They also offer a residential study trip in collaboration with a local textile and apparel manufacturer. This trip focuses on sustainability within the textile industry.
Roanne explains, “[Through these study trips] students gain invaluable insight into business strategies and innovation practices while interacting directly with industry leaders.” (03:40)
This broadens the worldview of MBA students, exposing them to various business practices around the world.
Living and Studying in Hong Kong
Beyond all of the global trips, one shouldn’t forget the unique advantages of studying in Hong Kong. It is one of Asia’s most international and dynamic cities. For international MBA students, it offers a culturally diverse and stimulating environment.
CUHK is home to plenty of international social groups and professional associations, making finding community away from home easier for international students. The city also hosts more than 40 foreign chambers of commerce, which creates valuable networking opportunities.
While living costs can be high, CUHK provides access to campus accommodation. This makes it easier to find housing as an international student. Hong Kong has an incredibly efficient public transportation system, diverse cuisines, and offers a safe environment. In fact, Hong Kong is one of the safest places in the world. According to Numbeo, it ranks #13 globally for the Safety and Quality of Life Index for 2025.
Career Support and the IANG Visa Advantage
Graduates of the CUHK MBA benefit from Hong Kong’s Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates, known as the IANG visa. The IANG visa allows eligible, non-local graduates to stay in Hong Kong for up to 24 months to seek employment after their program ends.
Roanne notes, “We offer comprehensive support to help students navigate the IANG visa application process. Our team will provide some guidance and resources to assist you with applying for the visa. We also provide you with a very clear timeline to make sure you submit the application on time.” (07:34)
CUHK also offers structured career support throughout the program. Moreover, the Career Actualization Program supports students’ career aspirations through job searches, making employer connections, and long-term career planning across Asia and beyond.
Are You the Ideal CUHK MBA Candidate?
Curious if you fit the program? These are the admission requirements:
- You must hold a bachelor’s degree
- You must have at least two years of post-qualification work experience
- GRE/GMAT are not mandatory, but a strong performance can enhance your application
- English proficiency is required
The Full-time MBA at CUHK is ideal for candidates looking to leverage the MBA for career growth, particularly in Asia. Furthermore, cultural and professional fit is important to CUHK. They look for MBA candidates who align with CUHK’s ethos and are keen to contribute to their community.
A Clear Path Toward Leadership in Asia
The CUHK MBA offers a unique and focused route into Asia’s business world. The CUHK MBA blends strong academic excellence, practical exposure, and Asian insights within a global context. For those seeking a career in Asia, it is a natural fit. Study at one of the best universities in Hong Kong, and gain the career support and network to stay and build a career in one of the world’s most dynamic business hubs.
Do you want to specialize in something specific? Find out more about the specializations you can elect in various MBA programs across the globe.
Want to study at CUHK? Take our eligibility quiz to see if you qualify!
