The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) is the largest government-funded tertiary institution in Hong Kong, with a total student headcount of about 27,200, of which 13,500 are full-time students, 11,400 are part-time students, and 2,300 are mixed-mode students.  The University offers a wide range of taught and research programmes up to doctoral level and is fully committed to academic excellence in a professional context with a view to design, develop and deliver application-oriented education and training programmes.  It offers programmes at Doctorate, Master's, Bachelor's degrees and Higher Diploma levels. The University has 26 academic departments and units grouped under six faculties, as well as 2 independent schools.  It has a full-time academic staff strength of around 1,250.  The total consolidated expenditure budget of the University is in excess of HK$4 billion per year.  

The University is implementing its second Strategic Plan under the theme of "Creating a Competitive Edge for our Students and the Community" (2001/02 to 2007/08) with the vision of becoming a "preferred university" offering "preferred programmes" so as to develop "preferred graduates".  It engages in a broad portfolio of research and scholarly activities in a focused manner, with special emphasis on applied research.  In addition to research funding obtained from external sources, the University provides internal funding for research.  In 2007/08, the internal funding allocated for research activities amounts to HK$216 million.  Over the years, the University has developed a close and productive partnership with industries and commerce in Hong Kong and collaboration with numerous universities internationally.  It is the only University with an Institute for Enterprise established for the purpose of supporting industrial and commercial development in Hong Kong.