CityU launches master's program on business AI

Ayra Wang

City University of Hong Kong is set to launch the city's first master's program on artificial intelligence in business in the 2025-26 academic year.

The program will focus on generative AI technologies and their business applications, combining core business knowledge with AI skills. Students will learn to enhance business efficiency, manage AI projects, and design sustainable AI solutions.

The tuition fee costs at least HK$360,000, with students required to complete 30 credits, with each credit charged at HK$12,000 for either the one-year full-time or the two-year part-time program.

The program is supported by global tech leaders including Alibaba Cloud, Inspur, Microsoft, and Google, according to the university. These partners will provide free AI software services, internship opportunities, and senior technical experts as guest lecturers to teach advanced topics that include generative AI, large language models, and prompt engineering.

Applications are accepted until May 31. CityU is offering scholarships of up to HK$50,000. The program has a limited intake of 50 students.

"The rapid development of AI is transforming industries and businesses and employees must equip themselves with these skills to stay competitive," said Kalok Chan, dean of the university's College of Business.

To support this vision, CityU will establish a state-of-the-art generative AI laboratory for business, providing students and researchers with advanced infrastructure to explore AI applications.

Ma Jian, the program leader and a professor in the Department of Information Systems, stressed the urgency of AI education, noting that "if you don't understand AI, you risk being left behind."

Ma added that a recent survey showed that nearly 80 percent of respondents found the new program highly appealing, indicating strong demand.