Programme Introduction
The BA & BEng in AI and Data Science at HKU is a groundbreaking 5-year double degree programme that integrates the technical rigor of engineering and computer science with the critical perspectives of the humanities. This interdisciplinary programme is designed for students who aspire to lead in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world, where the ability to blend computational expertise with humanistic insight is becoming increasingly vital.
Through this unique curriculum, students will gain proficiency in cutting-edge AI and data science, while also cultivating the critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and creative problem-solving skills that are hallmarks of the humanities.
Graduates will be well-prepared to address complex global challenges, from the ethical development of AI to the societal and cultural impacts of emerging technologies.
The full and comprehensive curriculum blends quantitative and computational courses from engineering disciplines with critical analysis and reflective inquiry from the humanities, creating a rich, interdisciplinary experience for students. This unique programme equips students to tackle the technical, social, ethical, and political challenges of an increasingly technology-driven world.
By combining the intellectual rigor of the humanities with the technical expertise of engineering, this programme fosters both creative and analytical thinking. Students will develop advanced computational and quantitative skills, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to technological innovation. At the same time, they will learn to critically design, assess and deploy emerging technologies in ways that are thoughtful, ethical, and socially responsible.
Students in the BA & BEng in AI and Data Science programme will have opportunities to apply their knowledge through internships and research projects that explore the intersection of AI and the humanities. These experiences may include working with industry partners, research institutes, or faculty on projects related to AI's ethical and societal impacts, helping students deepen their understanding of how emerging technologies can be developed and deployed responsibly.
This programme aims to cultivate professionals with a deep understanding of artificial intelligence technologies, complemented by critical insights from the humanities. Students will engage with the ethical, philosophical, and cultural dimensions of AI, while also acquiring practical skills in AI-driven tools and technologies. Designed for those passionate about bridging the gap between technology and human experience, the programme empowers students to shape the future of AI with a human-centered approach.
Graduates will be well-prepared for fast-growing career opportunities in roles such as data engineer, data scientist, data analyst, machine learning engineer, and information security specialist, where the demand for human-centered approaches is increasing. In addition, graduates will be equipped for dynamic interdisciplinary careers in AI ethics consultancy, digital humanities, AI policy development, human-computer interaction design, cultural analytics, and technology-driven research.
