Studying fintech in Hong Kong: How universities are embracing new technologies in the finance sector to offer postgraduate studies that cover AI, Web3 and blockchain

While traditional fundamentals will always be important, modern fintech and finance degrees must cover the latest developments in topics like artificial intelligence (AI), Web3, blockchain technology and smart cities – and Hong Kong universities are doing just that.

Professor Zhang Hua, director of the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) MSc (part-time) in Finance – one of the most respected financial degrees in the Asia-Pacific region – believes that consistently updating the curriculum to make it suitable for real-world applications has been the key to the programme’s continued success and sterling reputation.

“Our aim is to train our students to become finance professionals and executives, and teach them to be leaders in the space,” said Zhang, who has published over 20 papers in finance and economics journals and received five best paper awards at international conferences. “We are rigorous and emphasise application and relevance to society. We impart knowledge, but more importantly the necessary skills and ability to make decisions in the financial world,” he said.

Zhang noted that about 40 per cent of the faculty have real-world industry experience, and that they keep their finger on the pulse on what’s going on so students can apply what they learn right away. The staff also listen to student feedback to determine the latest trends and developments in the finance industry.

“Nowadays things like green finance, ESG (environmental social and corporate governance), and machine learning are among the latest trends, and we’ve introduced these courses into our curriculum,” said Zhang, who adds that staff are considering adding an entire Web3 module to the curriculum. “Some things that start off as issues mentioned in passing become formal parts of the curriculum, so we make sure to review and update it constantly.”