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Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI)

China Full Member Institution

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Mission Statement

The Hong Kong Design Institute (HKDI), a member institution of the VTC Group, is a leading design institute dedicated to nurturing the next generation of creative talent. At the intersection of design, technology and cultural innovation, HKDI offers over 20 programmes through its four design departments: Architecture, Interior and Product Design; Communication Design, Digital Media and Fashion and Image Design, empowering students to develop creative, professional and future-ready capabilities. 

Guided by its "Think and Do" philosophy, HKDI champions design and artistic innovation, AI-powered creativity, applied technology, industry integration and cross-disciplinary collaboration, equipping students with the knowledge, skills and entrepreneurial mindset needed to thrive in an increasingly dynamic and innovation-driven world. Through strong partnerships with industry and academic institutions, students gain hands-on experience, global exposure and opportunities to create meaningful impact through design. 

As HKDI celebrates its 20th Anniversary in 2027, the Institute is embarking on a new chapter of development, reaffirming its commitment to transformative design education in Hong Kong and beyond. Building on two decades of achievements, HKDI will continue to inspire and empower future generations of design professionals through transformative education, innovative practice and cross-disciplinary collaboration, enabling them to unlock their potential and contribute to the sustainable growth of Hong Kong’s creative ecosystem.  

International Role

HKDI is dedicated to cultivating students’ global perspective and cultural sensitivity. Through partnerships with over 40 renowned design universities around the world, we offer an opportunity for students to engage in cross-cultural learning. Our partners include the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts and Central Academy of Fine Arts in the Chinese Mainland; Hasselt University in Belgium; Bergen School of Architecture in Norway; Hongik University in South Korea; University of Borås in Sweden; Haute école d’art et de design — Genève in Switzerland; Politecnico di Milano in Italy; University of Westminster and University of the Arts London in the UK; to name a few.

National Role

To connect the world design community, HKDI is a member of important design associations, including the Cumulus Association, International Council of Design (ICoD), World Design Organization (WDO), International Foundation of Fashion Technology Institutes (IFFTI), International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI), International Institute of Information Design (IIID), DESIS Network, etc.

Main Focus

  • Discipline, specific skills and industry practice
  • Cultural sensitivity and international perspectives
  • Cross-disciplinary interactions awareness and concern in sustainable design
  • Analytical thinking, design research and problem solving skills
  • Interpersonal skills and teamwork
  • Professional conduct and social responsibility

Faculties and Departments

HKDI brings together the strengths of the design departments to offer Higher Diploma programmes spanning across Architecture, Interior and Product Design; Communication Design; Digital Media; and Fashion and Image Design. Graduates of Higher Diploma programmes may continue their degree programme studies in Hong Kong via Top-up Degree programmes offered by the School for Higher and Professional Education (SHAPE) in conjunction with UK universities. 

Programme information:https://hkdi.edu.hk/EN#programmes

Bachelor Level Programs

HKDI graduates can further their education at prestigious UK universities operated by the School for Higher and Professional Education (SHAPE). Alternatively, graduates can pursue degrees at the Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong (THEi).

Details of university options and programmes: https://hkdi.edu.hk/en/programmes/bachelor-degree.php

Master Level Programs

nil

Research Activity and Main Areas

‘HKDI Atelier’, an Industry-Connected Design Centre Linking Students with Real-World Projects:  

  • Fashion Archive  
  • Graphic Archive  
  • HKDI Desis Lab 
  • Material Lab 
  • HKDI Atelier Shop 
  • V Music Library 

Doctorate Level Programs

nil

Subject Areas for Exchange Students

  1. Advertising Design 
  2. Animation and Visual Effects
  3. Architecture, Interior and Landscape Design
  4. Costume Design for Performance 
  5. Design for Event, Exhibition and Performance 
  6. Digital Fashion Branding and Buying
  7. Fashion Design
  8. Fashion Image Design
  9. Fashion Media Design
  10. Illustration
  11. Product, Furniture and Jewellery Design
  12. User Experience Design
  13. Visual Arts and Culture
  14. Visual Communication Design

Application Deadlines

Autumn semester

Nomination: Late April

Application: Mid-May

 

Spring semester

Nomination: Late September

Application: Mid-October

Teaching Languages

English

Semester Dates

Autumn semester: September to January

Spring semester: January to May 

 

Cost of Living Per Month (Studying and Living)

Estimated cost of living per month:

  • Accommodation: HK$2,800 (dormitory) – HK$9,000
  • Meals, Transportation and Miscellaneous: HK$5,000 – HK$8,000
  • Tuition: waived if home university has a Memorandum of Understanding or Student Exchange Agreement with HKDI

Exchange Students

Incoming: 10
Outgoing: 10

Teaching Staff

Lectures: 180

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