Programme information
The Study China Programme offers students a unique opportunity to experience Chinese life, culture, language and business.
The Study China Programme is managed by The University of Manchester and funded by the UK Government department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.
This distinctive three week programme offers the opportunity to interact with Chinese students, academic staff, local families and businesses, providing profound access to this fascinating country. Throughout the programme you will be immersed in a vibrant campus environment at a leading Chinese university, ensuring that your Study China experience is truly unforgettable.
You will complete an intensive Chinese Mandarin course designed to develop your written and spoken language skills. We welcome applications from students with any level of language experience, from absolute beginners with no prior experience to fluent speakers. You will be placed in a tiered class depending on your ability.
Your Study China experience will not be confined to classroom learning. Through a curriculum of workshops, trips and excursions you will be introduced to the real China.
How much will it cost?
What is funded on your behalf by the UK Government:
- Tuition for all classes
- Accommodation for the duration of the programme
- Organised trips and excursions
What you need to fund:
- Flights and personal spending money
- You may be eligible to apply for financial assistance, please read over the finance page for further information.
Why should I apply?
- Enhance your CV – transferable skills that you will acquire during the programme will give you a competitive edge when applying for future employment
- Global experience - employers actively seek out candidates with global experience in countries such as China.
- Open up new opportunities – learning a language will open up many different work and study opportunities enabling you to establish strong links with leading Chinese universities and peers from UK universities
- Pursuing a future career in China - Study China alumni are eligible to apply for scholarships to return to China.
Summer 2017 host universities:
You will only be asked to make your university selection preferences if offered a conditional place on the programme.
East China Normal University (Shanghai)
Zhejiang University (Hangzhou)
Beijing Normal University (Beijing)
Due to the limited numbers of places available at each university, we cannot guarantee that we can provide you with your first choice of university.
Programme dates:
Start date: Sunday 6 August
Finish date: Saturday 26 August
There is no flexibility to arrive later or depart earlier than the specified programme dates, you must be available to complete the full duration of the programme.
How do I apply?
Applications for the summer 2017 programme are now being accepted.
For guidance on how to submit an application please see the How to Apply page.
Once accepted onto the programme you will commit to a structured programme of study focusing on developing knowledge and understanding of China, Chinese business and the Chinese language. The good news is that you do not need any previous knowledge of Chinese language to benefit from the programme and your experience will not be limited to just classroom learning. There is an extensive programme of cultural classes, days out and social occasions to look forward to, ensuring that your experience of China is truly lived as well as taught
What does the Programme offer?
Each programme includes a Chinese university accredited Chinese language course and cultural classes, visits and excursions. You will participate in a series of lectures regarding employment and scholarship opportunities and doing business in China.
Language Classes:
You will receive 40 hours of language tuition in a tiered class to match your language level. So whether you are a total beginner, intermediate or advanced speaker there will be a class to suit your ability. The language tuition you receive will place emphasis on developing your oral communication ability, with an oral and written examination at the end of the programme. The language course is designed to meet the requirements of HSK (Hanyu Shuiping Kaoshi), an internationally recognised Chinese language proficiency test.
Please note: You will not receive the HSK qualification on completion of 40 hours of language classes. In order to complete the HSK qualification you would need to register to complete the examination at a Confucius Institute in the UK.
Cultural Classes:
You will be introduced to Chinese culture through a variety of actitivites which may include Tai Chi, calligraphy,home family visit, or traditional music.
Visits and Excursions:
Previous trips have included a river night cruise, acrobatics display, tea museum, silk factory and other local points of interest in the locality. These provide insight to everyday life in your temporary home, and allow you to develop a deeper understanding of the local and national culture.
