The Kellogg-HKUST EMBA has secured the top position in the Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking 2026 for a record 13th time, highlighting the programme’s continued standing in global management education.
Jointly offered by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) Business School and the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University in the United States, the programme brings together experienced professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership skills and advance their careers.
For education professionals, university leaders and those considering postgraduate management study, the ranking offers an insight into the career outcomes, international networks and learning opportunities associated with executive education.
Kellogg-HKUST EMBA Leads The Global Ranking
The 2026 result reflects the programme’s performance across several measures, including career progression, alumni outcomes, international exposure and the strength of its professional network.
Notably, the programme ranked first globally in the Alumni Network category. Its graduates include senior executives, entrepreneurs and industry leaders working across different sectors and regions.
This international community can help graduates maintain professional relationships, exchange expertise and develop business partnerships throughout their careers.
Furthermore, the programme’s partnership between HKUST and Kellogg connects participants with academic expertise and business perspectives from Asia and the United States.
Graduates Report Strong Salaries And Career Progression
The Financial Times ranking also highlights the reported career outcomes of Kellogg-HKUST EMBA graduates.
According to the programme, graduates reported an average salary of US$607,684, equivalent to more than HK$4.7 million, and an average salary increase of 69% following graduation.
The programme also received an overall satisfaction score of 9.73 out of 10. This reflects alumni feedback on the learning experience, career goals and the long-term value of the programme’s professional network.
However, prospective students should consider these figures alongside their own career objectives, experience and financial circumstances. Reported average salaries do not guarantee that individual graduates will achieve similar earnings.
Deans Highlight Leadership Development And Global Connections
Prof. Frederik ANSEEL, Dean of HKUST Business School, said,
“Thirteen No. 1 rankings over nearly two decades demonstrate the consistency with which this program has delivered value to senior executives around the world. Our participants are accomplished leaders, and the depth of experience they bring to the classroom is a defining part of the learning journey. They engage with world-class faculty who challenge conventional thinking, translate cutting-edge research into practical insights, and help them navigate the complex decisions they face as leaders. Equally important are the lifelong connections formed through the program, extending into a global alumni community where members continue to mentor, support and learn from one another long after graduation.”
The programme’s success also reflects the long-standing partnership between HKUST Business School and the Kellogg School of Management. By bringing together faculty expertise and perspectives from different markets, the collaboration aims to prepare experienced professionals for leadership challenges that extend beyond national borders.
Prof. Francesca CORNELLI, Dean of Kellogg School of Management, noted,
“For more than two decades, Kellogg School of Management and HKUST Business School have fostered a close and fruitful partnership, bringing together outstanding faculty from around the world to deliver a world-class global management education. We will continue to deepen our collaboration to nurture forward-looking and responsible leaders who create long-term value for Hong Kong, Asia, and the global community.”
What The 2026 Ranking Means For Prospective Students
The Financial Times assesses Executive MBA programmes using several measures, including alumni career outcomes, salary progression, faculty research, diversity and international exposure. The ranking provides one way to compare programmes, although individual applicants should also consider teaching formats, fees, time commitments and career goals.
For professionals considering executive education in Asia, the Kellogg-HKUST result highlights Hong Kong’s role as a centre for international management education. The programme’s combination of regional and international perspectives may appeal to experienced leaders working across markets.
The programme is an exempted course under Hong Kong’s Non-local Higher and Professional Education (Regulation) Ordinance. Recognition of any resulting qualification remains at the discretion of individual employers.
The full results are available in the Financial Times Executive MBA Ranking 2026.
