#United States #New York #Columbia University #City University of Hong Kong #Joint Degree Program

Expanding Educational Horizons: Columbia and CityUHK's Joint Bachelor's Degree Program

In an exciting development for aspiring scholars, Columbia University and the City University of Hong Kong (CityUHK) have announced an expansion of their Joint Bachelor's Degree Program. Beginning in Fall 2025, high school graduates will be permitted to apply directly to this unique educational partnership, marking a significant evolution since its inception in 2012.

This innovative program allows students to embark on a rigorous undergraduate liberal arts education that spans two continents. Graduates ultimately obtain two prestigious bachelor's degrees, one from each institution, enabling them to stand out in global job markets. By opening the program to first-year applicants, Columbia's School of General Studies demonstrates its commitment to offering international educational experiences that enrich students both academically and personally.

Dean Lisa Rosen-Metsch, an alumna of the inaugural joint program, expressed her enthusiasm for this expansion, highlighting the opportunities for students to immerse in the diverse cultural landscapes at CityUHK—recognized as the Most International University in the World by Times Higher Education for both 2024 and 2025. This educational journey not only enhances their studies but also considerably contributes to the vibrant community at Columbia.

Students who enroll can expect to spend the first two years at CityUHK, focusing on one of twelve eligible majors, followed by their final two years at Columbia to complete their degree requirements and gain the renowned Core Curriculum experience. Dedicated advisors from both universities will guide students through academics and campus life, ensuring they receive the support necessary for success.

CityUHK's Associate Provost, Professor Alan Wan Tze-kin, emphasized the program's potential impact, stating, “This is a fantastic opportunity for the brightest students from Hong Kong and around the world to earn a transformational double degree.” He expressed confidence that this extensive exposure will significantly benefit students in their future endeavors.

The curriculum for the Joint Bachelor's Degree Program combines the depth of Columbia's rigorous Core Curriculum with CityUHK's innovative Discovery Enhanced Curriculum. This multidisciplinary approach offers a balance of humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences, equipping graduates with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complicated global landscape.

Currently, the program hosts 54 students who are on their path to achieving their double degrees. Both institutions take pride in fostering a diverse cohort, welcoming students from varied academic backgrounds. This collaborative initiative aligns with Columbia's long-standing tradition of academic excellence, further emphasized by its historical roots dating back to 1754.

Indeed, these dual-degree opportunities accelerate personal growth and professional readiness. By engaging deeply in two separate yet complementary academic environments—an experience enriched by cultural exchange—students are uniquely positioned to thrive as global citizens.

As we look to the future, this expansion signifies an exciting new chapter for both Columbia University and CityUHK, promoting a dynamic educational model that reflects the needs and aspirations of today’s students. From entry-level applicants to seasoned scholars, this joint program heralds a new era where education knows no bounds, fostering academic and cultural exchanges that will resonate into the future.

Conclusion

The Columbia and CityUHK Joint Bachelor's Degree Program stands as a beacon of innovative education. By welcoming students into a shared academic journey that marries two prestigious institutions, the program inspires a new generation of leaders poised to tackle the challenges of an interconnected world.