HKUST has remained at the forefront of global rankings for engineering and related fields in various international surveys, with impressive rises in individual engineering areas.

In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2012, five HKUST engineering subjects leapt into the global top 20. Computer Science (13th), Electrical Engineering (17th), Civil Engineering (18th), Mechanical Engineering (19th) and Chemical Engineering (20th) all rose, jumping between 11 and 32 places from the previous year. Computer Science, Electrical Engineering and Chemical Engineering were ranked first in Greater China, while Mechanical Engineering was first in Hong Kong.

Dean of Engineering Prof Khaled Ben Letaief said such rankings' success was a reflection of the School's ability to attract a critical mass of outstanding faculty and researchers, including over 20 IEEE Fellows. With its world-class academic team, the School was able to drive forward cutting-edge, quality research projects as well as develop innovative teaching concepts and practices. Top research facilities and the dynamic research atmosphere also fostered excellence.

The School has been pioneering the way in interdisciplinary research in areas such as energy and the environment. In addition, it has used Hong Kong's move to a four-year degree program to broaden its undergraduate programs and enhance exchange and internship opportunities for students. After the first Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education examination results were released, the School admitted the largest number of students attaining the top grade of 5** among local engineering schools.

In the QS World University Rankings by Faculty, HKUST was again first in Hong Kong in Engineering & Technology in 2012, and ranked 27th globally. In the Academic Ranking of World Universities in Computer Science 2012, HKUST was in first place in Greater China, and placed 26th globally. In the Academic Ranking of World Universities in Engineering/Technology and Computer Sciences, HKUST was ranked 38th worldwide in 2012.