At a glance
48 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€21k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Focus on commercialisation-ready ideas and real-world impact.Impact
- Development of intellectual property and venture creation skills.Innovation
- Integrated academic and industrial supervision.Mentorship
- Includes a Graduate Research and Innovation Trek (GRIT) Project.Project
- Preparation for establishing deep-tech startups.Entrepreneurship
The PhD by Innovation is a research-focused doctoral program designed for students who want to develop innovative solutions to real-world problems. This program emphasizes the commercialization of research findings and the creation of intellectual property. You will gain skills in venture creation and entrepreneurship alongside rigorous academic research. The program aims to address unmet technological, economic, or societal needs through innovative research. The goal is to produce original solutions that can be patented and developed into viable ventures. You will be guided by academic supervisors and industrial advisors, providing a strong foundation for launching deep-tech startups upon graduation. This program maintains the same academic standards as traditional PhDs but includes a unique Graduate Research and Innovation Trek (GRIT) Integrated Project. This project offers an immersive experience in entrepreneurial activities, industry collaboration, and technology transfer, preparing you to pitch your business ideas for funding.
Curriculum
The coursework requirement for the PhD by Innovation includes 17 credit units. This comprises a compulsory GRIT Integrated Project, core courses, and research methodology/ethics courses. A compulsory teaching course and a research integrity training are also required.
- Year 1-4 (Typical)
- GRIT Integrated ProjectCAI8001
- Core Courses
- Research Methodology and Ethics Courses
- Teaching Students: First StepsSG8001
- Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) Programme (Online)
Careers
Graduates of the PhD by Innovation program are well-prepared for careers in entrepreneurship and innovation. The program's focus on commercialization and venture creation equips students with the skills and knowledge to launch and lead technology-driven startups.
- Deep-tech Startup Founder
- Innovation Manager
- Technology Commercialisation Specialist
- Venture Capitalist
- R&D Entrepreneur
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for international students in the PhD by Innovation program?
- International students will pay HKD 190,000 per academic year, and this fee is fixed for the duration of the program. These fees are subject to annual review.
- What is the estimated living cost for students in Hong Kong?
- The estimated living cost for students in Hong Kong ranges from HK$50,000 to HK$60,000 per academic year. This estimate can vary depending on individual lifestyle choices.
- How can I apply for the PhD by Innovation program?
- International students should first apply to a regular PhD program at CityUHK and then indicate their interest in the PhD by Innovation specialization. Current CityUHK PhD students have a separate internal application process.
- What are the career prospects after completing the PhD by Innovation?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Deep-tech Startup Founder, Innovation Manager, and Technology Commercialisation Specialist. The program focuses on equipping students for entrepreneurship and venture creation.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- Yes, merit-based Entrance Scholarships are available for outstanding students upon admission. Applicants will be notified in their admission offer letter, and no separate application is needed for these scholarships.
- What is the typical duration of the PhD by Innovation program?
- The PhD by Innovation program typically takes 4 years to complete. This timeframe includes coursework, research, and the GRIT Integrated Project.
Entry requirements
Standard PhD admission requirementsProspective students apply for a regular PhD program within CityUHK's Colleges, Schools, or Departments and can opt for the PhD by Innovation.
This program is open to current CityUHK PhD students who can apply by submitting a specific form (CAI01) to the Academy of Innovation (CAI) for approval.
Fees
Tuition (international)HKD 190,000 per academic year (subject to annual review)
Tuition (home)HKD 47,000 per academic year (for 2026/27, subject to annual review)
LivingHK$50,000 – HK$60,000 per academic year (estimated)
Tuition fees for non-local students are fixed once admitted until the end of the program. Local student fees are subject to government review. Living costs are estimates and vary by lifestyle.
How to apply
1. Choose a PhD ProgramIdentify a PhD program within CityUHK's Colleges, Schools, or Departments that aligns with your research interests and allows for the PhD by Innovation specialization.
2. Submit ApplicationApply for the chosen PhD program through the university's application portal. Ensure you indicate your interest in the PhD by Innovation track if applicable during the general PhD application.
3. Internal Application (for current CityUHK PhD students)Current CityUHK PhD students should complete and submit the specific application form (CAI01) to the Academy of Innovation (CAI) for approval.
4. Receive OfferSuccessful applicants will receive an admission offer, which may include details about scholarships.
5. Accept Offer & Pay FeesAccept the offer and pay the required acceptance fee to secure your place.
Scholarships
Entrance ScholarshipsVaries
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for international students in the PhD by Innovation program?
+
International students will pay HKD 190,000 per academic year, and this fee is fixed for the duration of the program. These fees are subject to annual review.
What is the estimated living cost for students in Hong Kong?
+
The estimated living cost for students in Hong Kong ranges from HK$50,000 to HK$60,000 per academic year. This estimate can vary depending on individual lifestyle choices.
How can I apply for the PhD by Innovation program?
+
International students should first apply to a regular PhD program at CityUHK and then indicate their interest in the PhD by Innovation specialization. Current CityUHK PhD students have a separate internal application process.
What are the career prospects after completing the PhD by Innovation?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Deep-tech Startup Founder, Innovation Manager, and Technology Commercialisation Specialist. The program focuses on equipping students for entrepreneurship and venture creation.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
Yes, merit-based Entrance Scholarships are available for outstanding students upon admission. Applicants will be notified in their admission offer letter, and no separate application is needed for these scholarships.
What is the typical duration of the PhD by Innovation program?
+
The PhD by Innovation program typically takes 4 years to complete. This timeframe includes coursework, research, and the GRIT Integrated Project.