QS Asian University Rankings - HKUST & NUS in Top 2 Regionally

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is the highest ranked university in Asia, according to the QS Asian University Rankings 2013, followed by National University of Singapore (NUS) and the University of Hong Kong (both tied for the 2nd place regionally).

HKUST

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) was ranked No. 1 in Asia according to the 2013 QS Asian University Rankings, solidifying its status as a leader in higher education in the region. Established in 1991, HKUST has rapidly risen to prominence thanks to its strong emphasis on science, engineering, and business education. The university has gained recognition for its rigorous academic programs, state-of-the-art research facilities, and strong international partnerships.

The success of HKUST can be attributed to its emphasis on research and innovation, with faculty members consistently contributing to significant advancements in technology, engineering, and business. The university has also invested heavily in creating a learning environment that fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to engage with complex global challenges and develop innovative solutions.

National University of Singapore (NUS)

The National University of Singapore (NUS), a perennial leader in the region, shared the No. 2 spot in the 2013 rankings with The University of Hong Kong (HKU). NUS’s continued ascent underscores its reputation as a global powerhouse in higher education and research. Renowned for its comprehensive range of academic disciplines, NUS has consistently demonstrated excellence in engineering, technology, business, social sciences, and life sciences.

In 2013, NUS was ranked No. 1 in employer reputation and No. 2 in academic reputation in Asia, showcasing its strong influence among employers and academic peers. This recognition is a testament to NUS's commitment to producing high-quality graduates who are well-regarded in the job market and contribute to the university's stellar reputation. Additionally, NUS improved its position in citations per paper, moving up to 2nd place from 5th the previous year, reflecting its enhanced research impact and productivity.

NUS’s investment in research infrastructure and its focus on interdisciplinary research have led to significant breakthroughs in engineering and life sciences, enabling the university to maintain its position among the top five institutions in Asia across all disciplines measured. The university’s collaborative projects with industries and government agencies have helped cement its role as a leader in innovation and economic development in Southeast Asia.

The University of Hong Kong

The University of Hong Kong (HKU) also secured a top spot in the 2013 QS Asian University Rankings, sharing the No. 2 position with NUS. HKU has long been considered one of Asia’s premier institutions, distinguished by its outstanding research output, strong faculty, and its diverse and international student body. As the oldest university in Hong Kong, established in 1911, HKU has a rich academic tradition and a reputation for fostering academic excellence.

HKU has been a leader in areas such as medicine, law, business, and social sciences, and it has maintained a strong global presence due to its high research citations and commitment to interdisciplinary study. Its success in the 2013 rankings underscores its continued relevance and influence in higher education, making it an attractive destination for students and faculty from around the world.

Seoul National University

Seoul National University (SNU) was ranked 4th in the 2013 QS Asian University Rankings, confirming its position as the leading university in South Korea and a major academic force in East Asia. Established in 1946, SNU has built a strong reputation for its comprehensive academic programs and research capabilities. It has been at the forefront of South Korea’s efforts to establish itself as a knowledge-based economy, playing a pivotal role in technological advancements and economic growth.

SNU's performance in the rankings is supported by its world-class research centers and collaborations with global academic and research institutions. The university’s excellence spans disciplines such as engineering, natural sciences, social sciences, and business, making it a sought-after institution for students and scholars from around the world.

Peking University

Peking University (PKU), ranked 5th in the 2013 QS Asian University Rankings, continues to be the top university in mainland China and a leader in higher education in Asia. Founded in 1898, PKU has a storied history and is known for its academic rigor, distinguished faculty, and influential alumni. The university’s research output and citation rates reflect its status as a major player in the academic world, particularly in the fields of natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences.

The 2013 rankings also highlighted that 48 universities from mainland China were included in the top 200, showcasing the rapid development and growing influence of Chinese higher education on the global stage. This expansion is part of China’s strategic investments in higher education and research, aimed at fostering innovation and supporting economic development.

South Korea’s Growing Academic Influence

The 2013 QS Asian University Rankings revealed that South Korea has emerged as a major player in the region, with universities such as KAIST (6th) and POSTECH (7th) securing top spots in Asia. These institutions are known for their specialized focus on science, technology, and engineering, and they have contributed significantly to South Korea’s reputation as a technology and innovation hub.

Other Korean universities, such as Yonsei University (16th) and Korea University (19th), also demonstrated strong performances, underscoring the country’s commitment to advancing higher education and research. The impressive showings of South Korean universities in the rankings reflect the country’s successful strategies in building world-class academic institutions and promoting research and development.

The Rise of Chinese Universities

The 2013 QS Asian University Rankings highlighted the increasing competitiveness of Chinese universities. In addition to Peking University, Tsinghua University and Fudan University were also among the top 20, showcasing China’s significant investments in higher education and research. The presence of 48 universities from mainland China in the top 200 list underscores the rapid progress and strategic focus on higher education reform and internationalization.

The University of the Philippines

The University of the Philippines (UP) was ranked 63rd in the 2013 QS Asian University Rankings, cementing its position as the top university in the Philippines. UP has made significant strides in improving its academic reputation and research output, earning high marks in both academic reputation and employer reputation within the region. The university’s strongest showing was in social sciences and management, where it ranked 33rd in Asia and 1st in the Philippines.