China Universities and Colleges

Overview

Overview of Higher Education in China

China is home to about 2000 higher education institutions which range from broad-based public universities to small specialized colleges. The number and quality of schools varies widely between regions in the country, thus creating uneven access to higher education. The Ministry of Education has recently undertaken significant reforms to the education system including changes to higher education to increase the quality and fairness of the system.

China has seen an extremely fast rate of growth in the numbers of students attending higher education with the most significant increases being in the number of doctoral students. The number of higher education students quadrupled between 2002 and 2008. Unfortunately, the number of qualified faculty is not keeping pace with demand.

Since there are many more students that want to attend a university or college than there are spaces, admissions are extremely competitive, especially for public universities. National higher education entrance examinations, which take place over three days, are the basis for admission to universities and colleges.

Tuition varies by institution with higher tuition charged by prestigious schools in urban areas. These tuition costs are still fairly low relative to many other countries. Scholarships and other financial aid are available based on academic abilities.

Types of Schools and Degrees

There are over 100 universities that are referred to as National Key Universities which are the most highly-regarded universities and are typically known for a specific area of study. These schools receive additional government funding directed primarily towards research and post-graduate programs.

As of 2004, there were approximately 1300 private institutions whose enrollment accounted for about six percent of higher education enrollment. These institutions range from small, specialized colleges to large universities enrolling tens of thousands of students. They are perceived as providing lower-quality education compared with public institutions.

Degrees are similar to most western degrees and include four-year bachelor's, two and three year master's and doctoral degree programs that can take from four to six years. There are also vocational programs that can be completed in two to three years.

International Students

The number of international students attending higher education institutions in China was less than one percent in 2007 but has been rising steadily. The highest numbers of students come from Korea, followed by the US. One-fourth of Chinese institutions accept international students and the larger universities have departments of international relations that help foreign students navigate the often confusing options and applications process.

The most popular programs for international students are those in medicine, engineering, business, culture and language. Many Chinese universities now offer degree programs taught in English to attract international students. There are also a number of universities that specialize in teaching Chinese culture and language to foreign students. Exchange programs with schools in various countries exist as well.

Admission requirements for full-degree programs vary by institution and may include taking a Chinese entrance examination, a Chinese language exam or completing an interview. Short programs in the Chinese language and culture typically have fewer requirements. Tuition for international students is very reasonable compared with tuition fees at many western institutions.

About China

The People's Republic of China is the world's most populous country with over 1.3 billion people. It has been the world's fastest growing economy since 1978 when market-based reforms were started. China is now the third largest economy and the largest exporter in the world. The standard of living in China has improved immensely with less than 10 percent of the population living below the poverty line compared with 64 percent in 1978.

China is governed by the Communist Party of China which controls aspects of society that are usually left to market forces in many other countries. Although some continuing limitations on freedom exist, China has become a much more open and free society since reform began in 1978. The country has become a popular destination for tourists and business people. It now ranks fourth for inbound tourism and is expected to become the highest ranked tourist destination by 2020.

Resources

Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China