China

China: Beijing Normal University (BNU)

Host Institution

Beijing Normal University (BNU)

Highlights

At the beautiful BNU campus a recent burst of construction has created unusually interesting university architecture. Most students study language through the Chinese Language Center at BNU. Students with adequate language skills may take a course in a regular university department; those with advanced language ability will have a broader choice of regular courses taught in Chinese. UC students enjoy strong support services from the International Students Office. (details)

Duration

Fall semester: late June to late December
Academic year: late June to late June
(calendars)

Fall students are encouraged to apply to extend their EAP participation to the spring at either BNU or Peking University (pending space availability). Extension to the Fudan spring Economics and Business program in Shanghai or to the spring program at East China Normal University is not possible.

Academic Focus

Chinese language and culture. During the ILP students take only Chinese language instruction. During the smester they take a minimum of three Chinese Language Center courses; they may also take one elective in the Chinese Language Center. Linguistically qualified students may take regular university courses in selected fields. Likely choices are history, Chinese culture and society, and economics. See the Course Finder for courses previously taken by EAP students. (details)

Students attend classes with international students in the Chinese Language Center and with host country students in regular BNU courses (advanced language ability required).

Language of Instruction

Standard Chinese (simplified characters)

Language Study

Programs begin with a mandatory seven-week Chinese intensive language program (ILP). Chinese language study is required during the fall and spring terms except for students who have advanced levels of Chinese language proficiency and take courses in regular university departments (following a required language exam).

Units

Students are required to take a full-time course of study while abroad.

ILP: 12 UC quarter units (may be reduced to 3 units on the variable unit option)
Regular term: 18 UC quarter units per semester

Housing

UC students are housed with UC students or international students in single or shared rooms on campus in foreign student dormitories. With Study Center approval, students may live off campus during the fall or year. (details)

Estimated Cost

For estimated program costs, see the Financial Overview page.

To Apply

If you are interested in applying for this program, see the Selection Criteria and Application Deadlines.