POSTGRADUATE
PROGRAMS
PROGRAMS
Postgraduate Programs 2025/26
Master of Science Program in Smart Manufacturing
Award Title
Master of Science in Smart Manufacturing
Program Short Name
MSc(SMMG)
Mode of Study
Full-time
Normative Program Duration
Full-time: 2 years
Program Fee
RMB 280,000
Offering Unit
Smart Manufacturing Thrust Area
Systems Hub
Program Advisor
Program Director:
Prof. Kaihao ZHANG, Assistant Professor of Smart Manufacturing
Website
Enquiry
Smart Manufacturing systems are fully integrated, collaborative manufacturing systems that respond quickly to meet changing demands and conditions in smart factories, supply networks, and customer needs. To state it simply, it is the use of real time data and cutting-edge technologies to support factories in making effective and accurate engineering decisions and creating highly differentiated, cost-effective, and competitive products that match market needs.
The Smart Manufacturing Thrust established under the Systems Hub at HKUST(GZ) aims to enhance HKUST(GZ)’s international visibility in this field and foster the development of smart manufacturing in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and beyond through nurturing talents and exploring novel R&D achievements.
The Master of Science Program in Smart Manufacturing provides professional training and educates a new breed of workforce for the fourth industrial revolution, featured by advanced computer technologies (such as AI and big data) and new manufacturing technologies (such as 3D printing). We seek to train and equip students with cutting-edge knowledge in smart design and manufacturing technologies, sensing, data analytics, and control. The rigorous program lasting for two-years (full time) (38 credits in total) will provide theoretical, experimental, and data-analytical training comparable to similar MSc degrees offered by leading universities in China and other countries. The MSc(SMMG) program is strategically in line with the Smart Manufacturing Thrust and will educate and produce the much-needed workforce for the region and beyond.
On successful completion of the program, graduates will be able to:
- Gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest smart manufacturing technologies, including Additive Manufacturing (both metallic and non-metallic), Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), virtual and augmented reality, and data analytics;
- Explain how to design and optimize smart manufacturing processes and systems, including manufacturing and production processes, equipment, and logistics, to improve efficiency, productivity, and quality;
- Explain how to collect, process, and analyze data from manufacturing/production processes, equipment, and products to make informed decisions and improve business outcomes;
- Acquire interdisciplinary knowledge in engineering, computer science, data analytics, and business management that is essential for success in the field of smart manufacturing;
- Develop communication and collaboration skills that are necessary for working in cross-functional teams in a dynamic and fast-paced business environment; and
- Develop project management skills that are crucial for implementing smart manufacturing processes and systems, including how to plan, organize, and execute projects, and manage resources effectively.
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Minimum Credit Requirement
38 credits
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Credit Transfer
Subject to the approval of the Program Director, and the University’s regulation governing credit transfer, students may apply for credit transfer or course substitution of no more than 6 credits.
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Required Courses
24 credits
MSSM 5001
Additive Manufacturing Introduction
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course covers selected topics of current interest in additive manufacturing. Students will study the fundamentals of various additive manufacturing techniques, including fused deposition modeling (FDM), two-photon lithography, stereolithography (SLA), etc. The additive manufacturing process (FDM or SLA as an example) will be illustrated by actual model design, system setup and fabrication of parts.
MSSM 5002
Advanced Metal Additive Manufacturing
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course provides students with the latest knowledge and skills for metal additive manufacturing (AM) techniques and implications, as well as the fundamental understanding of process-structure-property relationships in material processing using AM.
MSSM 5003
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly
3 Credit(s)
Description
This is a course in Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) that focuses on the principles and techniques involved in designing products for efficient and cost-effective manufacturing and assembly processes. This course aims to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimize the design of products, considering factors such as ease of manufacturing, assembly, and overall product quality.
MSSM 5004
Engineering Data Analytics and Statistical Learning for Smart Manufacturing
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course focuses on the sensing and data analytics techniques for modeling, monitoring, and optimization of advanced manufacturing processes. The techniques introduced in this course can find wide applications in manufacturing industries such as ship/fuselage assembly process. This course will provide the students with understanding of the fundamental and advanced data analytics and statistical learning methodologies, and the ability of formulating and solving real problems with the appropriate modeling strategies and statistical principles.
MSSM 5005
Manufacturing System Modeling and Analysis
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course will introduce the students to an in-depth modeling and analysis of the workflow dynamics that shape the operation and the performance of contemporary production systems. It will develop systematic and rigorous models for the study of the considered environments. It aims to fill the need for an accessible but comprehensive presentation of the analytical approaches for modeling and analyzing models of manufacturing and production systems.
MSSM 5007
Sustainable Manufacturing
3 Credit(s)
Description
The course discusses the principles of sustainability with manufacturing processes. It covers from the social to technological impact of sustainable manufacturing. The evaluation system and tools used for sustainable manufacturing will be introduced. It also contains a business case study of sustainable manufacturing. Students will learn how to manage manufacturing systems that minimize environmental impact while maintaining economic viability and ensuring social responsibility.
MSSM 5008
Immersive Technologies in Manufacturing
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course covers the technical and experiential design foundation required for the implementation of immersive environments in current and future virtual, augmented, and mixed reality platforms. It also highlights the applications of these technologies under the manufacturing environment. The curriculum covers a wide range of literature and practice starting from the human-computer interface concepts following the evolution of all supporting technologies including visual displays for VR, AR and MR, motion tracking, interactive 3D graphics, multimodal sensory integration, immersive audio, user interfaces, IoT, games and experience design, focusing on manufacturing-related scenarios.
MSSM 5009
Fundamental Theories and Algorithms of CAD/CAM
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course covers topics such as curves and surfaces, geometric modeling basics, data structures in CAD/CAM, optimization, numerical control technology, numerical control machining, and projects. In addition to lectures, a 3-hour lab in SolidWorks and MATLAB programming will be offered.
MSSM 5010
Numerical Methods for Engineers
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course is intended for teaching numerical methods for engineering students at the postgraduate level. The course will have three important objectives: (1) to teach the basic theories and fundamentals of numerical methods; (2) to help the students to acquire skills to implement these methods for computer solution; and finally (3) to provide an environment where the students can familiarize themselves with many today’s popular commercial software systems and their use in the solution of engineering problems.
MSSM 5011
Computerized Numerical Control Technology
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course covers the contents of the principle and applications of Computerized Numerical Control (CNC), like the fundamental technologies of numerical control (including interpreter, interpolator, control of acceleration and deceleration, and position control system), and the characteristics and industrial applications of typical CNC controllers and CNC machine tool.
MSSM 5012
Introduction to Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS): Fabrication and Application
3 Credit(s)
Description
In this course, students will delve into the intricate world of microfabrication technologies, including key processes such as photolithography, etching, deposition, and more. These techniques, used in integrated circuit (IC) fabrication, are adapted and extended to address the unique challenges posed by Microelectromechanical Systems (MEMS) design and manufacturing. The processes are explored both theoretically and practically, enabling students to develop the skills necessary for research-level prototyping and industry-scale production of MEMS. Furthermore, this course delves into the integration of MEMS and ICs, discussing the advantages and exploring different levels of integration. These discussions are complemented by detailed case studies of several MEMS devices, revealing their real-world applications and the associated micro-fabrication processes.
MSSM 5013
Introduction to Precision Engineering
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course provides an in-depth understanding of the principles and techniques used in precision engineering, including tool materials, mechanics of cutting, ultra-precision machine elements, MEMS and nanoscale additive manufacturing. Based on these accumulations, this course also covers topics such as the industry growth, global state and the future of precision engineering.
MSSM 5014
Robotics Manufacturing
3 Credit(s)
Description
This course introduces students to wide fundamental concepts, techniques, and technologies in robotics-enabled manufacturing automation and optimization. The course covers wide topics including robot kinematic and dynamic modeling, GPU-based solid modeling, control system design, sensors and perception, motion planning, and process control. Students will explore integrating robotic techniques into the manufacturing process to enable design automation and optimization for smart manufacturing.
MSSM 5015
Bioprinting and Biofabrication
3 Credit(s)
Description
From printing an artificial joint to replicating a heart, manufacturing advances have unleashed the possibilities to create complex tissues and organs for therapeutic studies and for patients in need. In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of 3D bioprinting that fabricates tissue engineering scaffolds and customizable implants; and they will explore the state-of-the-art biofabrication strategies that produce living organs and systems.
MSSM 6000
Independent Project
4 Credit(s)
Description
An independent research project related to Smart Manufacturing carried out under the supervision of faculty members. Grade PP, P or F.
- Industry Internship Project
8 credits
MSSM 6001
Industry Internship Project I
4 Credit(s)
Description
The Industry Internship Project provides students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and academic training to real-world manufacturing environments, allowing them to gain practical experience and witness the application of smart manufacturing concepts in action. Students are required to complete an industry internship with a duration of 6 months. The internship consists of two parts. In MSSM 6001, students are required to submit a mid-term progress report for review by the academic and industry supervisors. Graded PP, P or F.
MSSM 6002
Industry Internship Project II
4 Credit(s)
Description
The Industry Internship Project provides students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and academic training to real-world manufacturing environments, allowing them to gain practical experience and witness the application of smart manufacturing concepts in action. Students are required to complete an industry internship with a duration of 6 months. The internship consists of two parts. In MSSM 6002, students are required to submit a final internship report for review by a committee consisting of the academic and industrial supervisors, and the Program Director. Graded P or F.
The Industry Internship Project provides students with the opportunity to apply their theoretical knowledge and academic training to real-world manufacturing environments, allowing them to gain practical experience and witness the application of smart manufacturing concepts in action.
Students are required to complete an industry internship with a duration of 6 months. The internship consists of two parts. In MSSM 6001, students are required to submit a mid-term progress report for review by the academic and industry supervisors. In MSSM 6002, students are required to submit a final internship report for review by a committee consisting of the academic and industrial supervisors, and the Program Director.
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Capstone Project
6 credits
MSSM 6003
Capstone Project
6 Credit(s)
Students are required to undertake a capstone project in the last term of the program. The capstone project should generally be combined with the industry internship training and coursework study, with a duration of a regular term. By the end of the term, students need to finish and submit a project report and give a defense presentation.
To qualify for admission, applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Admission is selective and meeting these minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
1. General Admission Requirements of the University
Please refer to Admission Requirements.
2. English Language Admission Requirements
Please refer to Admission Requirements.
3. Additional Information
A bachelor’s degree in Applied Statistics, Mechanical Engineering, Automation or other Science and Engineering fields is preferred.
Apply online before the application deadlines.
Application Fee
RMB 300
Application Deadlines
For 2025/26 Fall Term Intake (commencing in Sep 2025):
International students*
15 Jun 2025
Chinese students
15 Jul 2025
Application Open On
27 Mar 2025
* All international students are required to obtain a student visa (X visa) for studying in China's mainland. For details on student visa (X visa) requirements, please click here.
