The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and Sharif University of Technology (SUT), Iran, and have signed an agreement to establish a joint PhD program in engineering that enables PhD students to conduct academic exchange at both universities. The agreement marks a major step in the relationships of the two institutions following the Cooperation Agreement signed between the two in 2010 to enhance relations.

SUT is a top university in Iran and is also highly reputable in the Middle East. Its academic excellence is evident from its highly competitive undergraduate admission, which is limited to the top 5% of students who pass the national entrance examination in Iran. Drawing on the strengths of two globally-renowned universities, the SUT/HKUST Joint PhD Program in engineering provides a solid platform for academic and research exchanges. Students will not only benefit from the research excellence of both universities, but will also develop a global perspective.

The duration of the SUT/HKUST Joint PhD Program is four academic years, where students are required to spend at least two academic years each at SUT and HKUST. Each engineering student will have two advisors, one from each institution. The three-person group will develop a plan for the student’s research project before the student commences on the program. The first cohort of students is expected to be admitted in Fall 2012 at the earliest.

The SUT/HKUST Joint PhD Program signifies another effective partnership between HKUST and other renowned universities for launching joint PhD programs. In 2011, an agreement for joint PhD program was signed between the School of Engineering and the College of Engineering of Pohang University of Science and Technology, a top university in Korea.