Humanities and Social Sciences at PKU
Peking University is world-renowned for its programs in humanities and social sciences, which have been the foundation of the university since its founding in 1898. The School of Chinese Language and Literature is one of the oldest and most prestigious in China, offering comprehensive programs in Chinese literature, linguistics, classical Chinese studies, and comparative literature. The School of History offers programs in Chinese history, world history, and archaeology, with access to extensive archival resources and archaeological sites throughout China. The School of Philosophy offers programs in Chinese philosophy, Western philosophy, comparative philosophy, and religious studies, attracting students interested in understanding both Eastern and Western philosophical traditions. The School of International Studies offers programs in international relations, diplomacy, global governance, and regional studies, with particular strength in China foreign policy and Asia-Pacific affairs. These programs are especially popular among international students who want to gain a deep understanding of Chinese culture, history, and China role in the modern world. Most humanities programs are taught in Chinese and require HSK Level 5 or higher for graduate admission.
Business and Economics
The Guanghua School of Management at PKU is one of the most prestigious business schools in China and holds triple accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA. It offers undergraduate programs in business administration, finance, accounting, and economics. Graduate programs include the full-time MBA which is taught entirely in English, the Master of Finance, and PhD programs. The National School of Development offers programs in economics, public policy, and management, with a strong focus on understanding China economic transformation and development model. Both schools maintain strong connections with multinational corporations, consulting firms, investment banks, and technology companies, providing excellent internship and career placement opportunities for international students. Business graduates from PKU are highly sought after by employers in China and globally, with many securing positions at top-tier companies before graduation.
Law at PKU
PKU Law School is consistently ranked as one of the top three law schools in China. It offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in Chinese law, as well as specialized English-taught programs designed specifically for international students. The School of Transnational Law offers an innovative English-taught Juris Doctor and Juris Master program that focuses on Chinese law within an international context. This program is particularly valuable for international lawyers, legal professionals, and students who want to understand China legal system and its interaction with international law. The PKU Law Library is one of the most comprehensive legal research libraries in Asia, with extensive collections of Chinese and international legal materials. Law graduates from PKU have excellent career prospects in international law firms, multinational corporations, and organizations dealing with China-related legal matters.
Science and Engineering
While PKU is best known for its humanities, it also has strong programs in the natural sciences. The School of Physics is one of the oldest and most distinguished in China, with faculty members who have made significant contributions to physics research. The College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering is a national leader in chemical research. The School of Life Sciences offers programs in biotechnology, genetics, ecology, and environmental science. The School of Electronics Engineering and Computer Science offers programs in computer science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and data science. PKU has strong research collaborations with leading universities and research institutions worldwide, providing international students with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects.
Medical Programs (MBBS)
PKU Health Science Center is one of the top medical schools in China. The MBBS program for international students is taught entirely in English and lasts 6 years, including clinical rotations at PKU affiliated hospitals. The curriculum covers basic medical sciences in the first three years, followed by clinical medicine and rotations in years four through six. PKU affiliated hospitals include Peking University First Hospital, Peking University People Hospital, and Peking University Third Hospital, all of which are among the best hospitals in China. The MBBS program prepares students for the Chinese Medical Licensing Examination and for clinical practice in China or internationally. Admission is competitive, with approximately 50 international students admitted each year.
English-Taught Programs Summary
For international students who do not speak Chinese, the most accessible options at PKU are graduate programs. At the undergraduate level, most programs are taught in Chinese. At the master level, several programs are available in English including the MBA at Guanghua, the Master of International Relations, the Chinese Law program (J.M.), and some economics programs. At the PhD level, students can generally complete their studies in English if their supervisor speaks English. The PKU International Students Division maintains an up-to-date list of English-taught programs on the studyatpku.com website and provides personalized guidance for prospective students.
Research Opportunities at PKU
Peking University offers excellent research opportunities for international students across all disciplines. The university has numerous research centers and institutes where students can participate in cutting-edge research projects. PKU has strong collaborations with leading universities worldwide, providing opportunities for joint research and academic exchange. Graduate students are encouraged to publish their research in academic journals and present at international conferences, often with funding support from the university. The PKU library system with over 8 million volumes provides extensive resources for research across all fields. Undergraduate students can also participate in research through the PKU Undergraduate Research Program which pairs students with faculty mentors for research projects during the academic year or summer break.
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Exchange and Dual Degree Programs
PKU has partnerships with over 200 universities worldwide, offering international students opportunities for exchange semesters and dual degree programs. The PKU-LSE double degree program allows students to earn degrees from both PKU and the London School of Economics. Exchange programs with the University of Chicago, Columbia University, and the University of Tokyo provide valuable international experience. The PKU Study Abroad Office provides support and information for students interested in spending a semester or year at a partner university. These opportunities allow students to expand their academic horizons and build global professional networks while earning credits toward their PKU degree.