Introduction

When choosing between The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) and The University of Hong Kong (HKU) for a degree in Computer Science, the decision should be guided by various factors. For undergraduate studies, you should focus on the university rather than the specific program, considering elements like social environment, location, and future opportunities. For postgraduate studies or an academic career, your decision should be informed by the research output and the faculty of these institutions.

Undergraduate Studies: HKU vs HKUST

At both HKUST and HKU, the undergraduate Computer Science (CS) programs are similar in terms of facilities, teaching staff, and future opportunities. However, the choice should be influenced by additional factors such as social circles, location, and transportation.

Social and Practical Considerations

HKU is known for its smaller and more personalized approach, with 70-80 students choosing CS each year and a significant number of PhD students. This smaller faculty can be both an advantage and a challenge, offering more intimate learning experiences and access to faculty, but also with fewer peers for social interaction.

Research and Academic Opportunities

If you're considering postgraduate studies or an academic career, it's crucial to look into the faculty's research output, particularly their publications. For more specific insights, you can browse through the publications of the professors at each university to gauge their research interests.

Rankings and Reputations

While online rankings can provide a general guideline for choosing a university for postgraduate studies or research, they often emphasize research quality, which may not accurately reflect the quality of education for undergraduate programs. It's essential to supplement this information with firsthand accounts and institutional data.

HKU Computer Science Department: An Insight

As a personal recommendation, I can offer insights into the Computer Science course at HKU. Although I haven't studied at HKUST, I can share my experiences with HKU. The department of Computer Science at HKU is quite vibrant, with faculty members hailing from various countries and institutions worldwide.

Smaller Class Size and Diverse Faculty

The CS department at HKU is relatively small, with only 75-80 students majoring in Computer Science annually. This smaller scale can be advantageous, providing more opportunities for one-on-one interactions with professors and engaging in advanced research projects. The faculty consists of highly educated and experienced individuals from top universities around the globe, including Columbia, Oxford, and Stanford.

Research and Practical Learning

As a research-oriented university, HKU offers a wide range of courses, many of which are offered at a manageable frequency. There are various elective courses available, such as Quantum Computing, Functional Programming, System Architecture, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Computer Vision, Computer Graphics, Principles of Programming Languages, Network Security, Game Development, App Development, Web Development, E-commerce, Compiling Techniques, and more.

Rigorous Curriculum and Supportive Environment

The curriculum at HKU is designed to be challenging, with a significant focus on continuous evaluation through assignments, midterms, and projects. Moreover, most professors at HKU have a flexible approach to self-learning and do not enforce compulsory attendance. The assignments are crafted to enhance deep learning and problem-solving skills, with professors and teaching assistants (TAs) available to support students.

Conclusion

In summary, when choosing between HKU and HKUST for a Computer Science degree, consider the following key points:

Undergraduate: Focus on the overall university environment, social aspects, and resources. Postgraduate: Look into the research output and faculty of each institution. Insider Recommendations: HKU's CS department is smaller and more research-oriented, offering a rich educational experience with diverse courses and personalized learning opportunities.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal goals, preferences, and career aspirations.