Pioneering global excellence: Hull Institute approved in China

The approval marks not only a bold step forward in Hull University Business School’s (HUBS) global engagement, but also reflects its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration. As one of the few new ‘Chinese-foreign’ joint institutes to be approved in recent years, the Hull Institute stands as a testament to HUBS growing global reputation and ambition.

This development opens new pathways for learning, partnerships, and global impact, reinforcing the University's vision to empower future changemakers as well as reflecting a shared commitment with CTBU to create opportunities for students in China to experience the benefits of a Hull education in a local setting.

Peter Andrews, Director, International and Partnerships at Hull University Business School, said: “The approval of the Hull Institute by the Chinese Ministry of Education is truly momentous. It represents the culmination of over a year of dedicated collaboration between our colleagues at Hull and CTBU.

“This achievement reflects the ambition and hard work of many colleagues, and I would like to extend my thanks to everyone involved. We are excited about the journey ahead as we bring the HUBS experience to students and colleagues in Chongqing.”

Professor Robert Dover, Dean of the Hull University Business School, added: “This is a landmark moment for the Business School and the University. Our new partnership with CTBU provides us with an outstanding platform to extend our international presence, deliver world-class education, and foster collaboration across borders. I am deeply grateful to our colleagues who have made this possible, and I look forward to seeing the Hull Institute thrive as part of our global strategy.”

The Hull Institute at CTBU, will officially launch in 2026, offering three undergraduate business programmes and two postgraduate programmes, which will be delivered in China. Recruitment of students will begin in the lead-up to the opening, and the programmes will be delivered in partnership between staff at CTBU and Hull University Business School.

Eric Zhang, International Director of CTBU said: “We are thrilled that the Chinese Ministry of Education has formally approved the Hull Institute, CTBU. This is a momentous achievement and a proud milestone for both CTBU and Hull.

“I would like to express our heartfelt thanks to our colleagues at Hull for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts throughout this journey.

“Our shared vision and hard work have brought us to this point, and it is incredibly motivating to see what we can accomplish together. We now look forward to preparing the next stages, from curriculum development to the launch of the Institute, and to welcoming our first students in 2026.”