On June 5, Associate Deans Fang Shiming and Brent Haas, Director of Graduate Studies Lu Yang, and staff from the Yenching Academy visited the Institute of China Studies at Zhejiang University (ZJU). The delegation met with Ben Shenglin, Dean of the International Business School, Zhejiang University (ZIBS), alongside Qu Haidong, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Committee of the ZJU International Campus, and Li Xuping, Deputy Director of the ZJU Institute of China Studies.
Qu Haidong introduced the mission and achievements of the ZJU International Campus, as well as the history, characteristics, and accomplishments of Zhejiang University’s China Studies program, particularly the background, structure, and objectives of the newly established Master of China Studies (MCS) program. Professor Li Xuping provided an overview of the MCS program’s discipline development, curriculum design, training model, and degree conferment. Professor Ben Shenglin introduced the international programs and ecosystem of ZIBS.
Associate Dean Fan Shiming presented YCA’s achievements in international admissions, interdisciplinary training, and student development, including scientific research and capacity building. He also shared insights into the branding and positioning of the YCA China Studies program.
Both sides explored opportunities for complementary collaboration in academic events, staff exchanges, and joint student training. The discussion also touched upon development frameworks, training models, and challenges facing China Studies programs.
The two institutions acknowledged that China Studies, as a discipline rooted in Chinese culture and cross-cultural exchange is fundamental to the interdisciplinary understanding of China-related issues. It plays a vital role in cultivating specialists who can serve as bridges between China and the rest of the world. A consensus was reached to enhance collaboration and deepen exchange in interdisciplinary China Studies programs.
Yenching Academy’s China Studies master’s program, a major initiative in the field, has enrolled more than 1,000 Chinese and international students since its launch in 2014. Zhejiang University’s China Studies program, the first of its kind in China, has welcomed approximately 800 international students since 2010. This meeting marked a significant step toward mutual understanding and laid the groundwork for future cooperation in nurturing global talents in China Studies.
