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Published by Afterschool.my on Mar 26, 2025, 06:02 pm
The global education landscape is undergoing a significant transformation, with Asian universities rapidly gaining ground against traditional powerhouses in the United States and the United Kingdom.
According to the latest QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, institutions across Singapore, China, and Hong Kong have shown remarkable progress, reflecting Asia's growing influence in global academia.
Asian Institutions Gaining Momentum
While US institutions continue to dominate, leading in 32 subjects, and UK universities excel in 18 subjects, Asian universities are making notable strides. Harvard leads in 15 subjects, while the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) claims the top spot in 11, reinforcing the US's academic dominance. Meanwhile, the University of Leeds achieved a standout performance in the UK, securing 53 subject entries: the most among British institutions.
However, Asian universities are rapidly improving their global standing. China expanded its top 50 subject entries from 100 in 2020 to 231 in 2025, a staggering 131% increase. Its presence in the global top 10 has quadrupled, jumping from 5 to 21 entries. Singapore has shown even more dramatic growth, with top 10 entries climbing from 8 to 34, a remarkable 325% surge.
Hong Kong universities are also thriving, with the University of Hong Kong now boasting 55 subjects ranked in the global top 200 — the most in Asia. The Chinese University of Hong Kong saw 43 of its subjects improve in rankings this year, further emphasising the region's upward trajectory.
Shifting Global Dynamics in Higher Education
This upward momentum among Asian universities signifies a changing global dynamic. As QS Vice President Ben Sowter noted, "Countries that have traditionally dominated global rankings are now facing increasing competition from emerging education markets."
This shift comes amid financial challenges for universities in the US, UK, Australia, and Canada. With these institutions grappling with budget cuts, policy changes, and declining international student numbers, Asian universities have capitalised on opportunities to expand their influence and strengthen their academic offerings.
European Institutions Show Consistency
Meanwhile, European universities continue to perform consistently well. Switzerland’s ETH Zurich secured the top position in three subjects, while the Netherlands and Italy also claimed key rankings in agriculture, communication and ancient history.
Canada’s University of British Columbia emerged as a standout performer, ranking among the top globally in 52 subjects, showcasing North America’s continued presence in the rankings despite mounting pressures.
India’s Mixed Results
Indian institutions are also making their mark, with nine universities ranking among the world’s top 50 in various disciplines. However, some key institutions, including the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), experienced declines in their standings. Despite this, computer science and information systems saw impressive growth, with Indian universities now boasting 42 ranked entries—the fourth highest globally.
Looking to the Future
As the global education landscape evolves, Asian universities are clearly positioning themselves as formidable competitors. With dynamic growth in subject rankings and strengthened academic offerings, institutions across Singapore, China, and Hong Kong are poised to shape the future of higher education. Traditional leaders may still dominate the top spots, but the rapid progress of Asian universities signals an era of increased competition and shifting academic influence on the world stage.
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