China Now | Alliance for Global Education

Program Overview

This program offers students a curriculum of Chinese language and English-taught courses in several disciplines including economics, film studies, women’s studies, and cultural studies. Students may enroll for a semester, summer, or academic year, or a combination of a semester and summer term. Students are encouraged to consider spending their second term in China in a different Alliance program to deepen their knowledge of China’s regional diversity.

Meet our on-site staff members who keep the BLCU program running smoothly.

Pre-Requisites and Academic Structure

Students are required to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and to be enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at an accredited U.S. institution. No prior study of the Chinese language is required to participate in the program.

Students are required to take a curriculum of Chinese language and English-taught area studies courses. Students' placement in the Chinese language course will be contingent upon the results of a placement exam after arrival in China. In the fall and spring terms, students receive 15 credits. In the summer term, students receive 9 credits. Students with at least three prior semesters of Chinese language instruction may apply for one of a limited number of internships available on the BLCU program.

Classes are offered exclusively for Alliance students. Chinese language classes average 6-8 students per class, taught by fulltime BLCU language faculty selected and trained by the Alliance. Area studies courses are taught by faculty from various universities in Beijing. All area studies faculty have or are working toward a Ph.D.

Critical Language Scholarships

The Alliance has been selected by the American Councils for International Education and the U.S. Department of State to host all three China sites for the Critical Languages Scholarship (CLS) program, one of which is our Beijing site at Beijing Language and Culture University. To learn more about this intensive language summer program, please review Additional Funding Opportunities.

On Location in Beijing

Fresh from a massive urban renewal in conjunction with the 2008 Olympic Games, China’s bustling capital city of Beijing is the nation’s political, educational, and cultural center. It has more universities and research institutes than any other city in China, making it the intellectual hub of the country. Beijing’s 3,000 years of history is reflected in its art, architecture, music, and traditions. Among its innumerable attractions are the Forbidden City, Temple of Heaven, Tiananmen Square, and the nearby Great Wall. While the city is replete with historical treasures, modern Beijing is buzzing with concert halls, internet cafés, restaurants, museums, and movie theaters.

Beijing Language and Culture University

Founded in 1962, the Beijing Language and Culture University (BLCU) is considered to be one of the nation’s premier institutions for the teaching of Chinese language and culture to foreigners. The majority of Chinese Language textbooks are written at BLCU by BLCU professors. These books are used in Chinese classrooms across the United States and throughout the world. BLCU confers degrees at the bachelor, master, and doctoral levels and is comprised of 11 faculties and research institutes. The university hosts 14,000 foreign and Chinese students. It is located in the Haidian district, which is home to the majority of Beijing’s universities.

The majority of Chinese Language textbooks are written at BLCU by BLCU professors. These books are used in Chinese classrooms across the United States and throughout the world. The Alliance uses the textbook series, New Practical Chinese Reader, written by BLCU professors in the majority of our Chinese language classes. Upper level courses use additional texts and supplementary instructional materials. For details on specific texts for courses, please review our syllabi via the Academics tab.

Fall and Spring Curriculum

This 15-credit program offers 12 class hours per week of Chinese language as well as the opportunity to examine modern China through courses in English in several disciplines including economics, film studies, women's studies, and cultural studies.

Students must enroll in:

Chinese Language (9 credits)
Issues in Contemporary Chinese Society and Culture (3 credits)
One additional area studies course (3 credits) or the internship course (3 credits)

Required Courses

Chinese Language (required, 12 class hours per week, 9 credits)

No prior language study is required for admission. Upon taking a placement exam after arrival, students will be placed into the appropriate language level. Courses emphasize listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The Alliance programs teach Simplified Chinese Characters, which are standardized Chinese characters officially used in mainland China as well as Singapore, as opposed to Traditional Chinese Characters, which at present are more commonly used in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau.

Click here to view a full listing of textbooks and lessons by Alliance program and course.

BEIJ SOCS260 Issues in Contemporary Chinese Society and Culture (required, 3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Professor Josh Gordon's CV
This course examines the transformation in Chinese society since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, with emphasis on the changes brought about in the wake of the economic reforms of the 1980s and 1990s. Topics include the developments in urban and rural social transformation introduced by the reforms, the changing relationship between the individual and society, the urban and rural divide, and population control and the one child policy. Students will explore the social consequences of China's rapid integration into the global economy. All students complete a Capstone Project as part of this course.

Elective Courses

All area studies courses are taught in English and meet for three class hours per week. Students must enroll in one from the following list. Students with at least three semesters of Chinese may elect to participate in a 3 credit internship to replace one of their area studies courses.

BEIJ FSCF360 Contemporary China through Film (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Professor Teng Jimeng's CV
This course will examine contemporary China through study of the themes in Chinese cinema from the May Fourth and Republican era (1911-1949), the Maoist era (1949-1978) and the Reform era (1979-present), including films by 5th and 6th Generation Chinese directors. Students will explore the artistic merits of these films and will consider Chinese representations of the themes of cultural, social, and political change.

BEIJ ECCD370 China's Economic Development: 1978 to the Present-and Beyond (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
In the last twenty-five years, China has been the fastest growing economy in the world. In this course, students will explore the historical stages and effectiveness of the economic policies that have shaped China's emergence as a major player in the global economy. Students will examine the challenges posed by economic development and the prospects for China's economic future.

BEIJ CFPL370 Introduction to Chinese Foreign Policy (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Professor Chris Colley's CV
This class provides an overview of Chinese foreign policy from 1949 through 2008. The first six weeks of class present historical and cultural background from 1949-2002. The remaining portion of the semester is devoted to exploring China's foreign policy during the Hu Jintao administration (2003-present), providing an overview of foreign policy structures, principles, general practices, and characteristics of China's current interstate relationships.

BEIJ ENVI380 China and the Environment (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Understanding and responding to China’s environmental challenges is one of the most important tasks facing the Chinese government and its people as well as the international community. This course offers a comprehensive overview of the full range of these challenges from water and soil pollution to desertification and reforestation to energy and agricultural production. The course begins with a historical overview of different phases of China’s relationship with its environment. Students then analyze China’s environmental challenges politically, economically, and demographically. The course also examines the ways in which China and the international community understand and respond to local, regional, and global dimensions of China’s economic growth and its environmental implications.

BEIJ INTS380 Internship (10-12 hours/week, 3 credits)
Professor Paul Mooney's CV
Students with at least three semesters of Chinese may elect to participate in a 3 credit internship to replace one of their area studies courses. Interns are placed in Chinese, joint-venture, or foreign-owned companies. Interns spend 10-12 hours per week (or 120 hours a semester) at the internship site and complete a research project that includes a 5,000 word paper and oral presentation. Internships are supervised by faculty advisor Dr. Ferchen, who meets with each student individually.

Summer Curriculum

This 9-credit program offers students 15 class hours per week of Chinese language as well as the opportunity to examine modern China by selecting an English-taught elective from among several disciplines.

Students must enroll in:

Chinese Language (6 credits)
One additional area studies course (3 credits) or the internship course (3 credits)

Required Courses

Chinese Language (required, 15 class hours per week, 6 credits)

No prior language study is required for admission. Upon taking a placement exam after arrival, students will be placed into the appropriate language level. All courses emphasize listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The Alliance programs teach Simplified Chinese Characters, which are standardized Chinese characters officially used in mainland China and Singapore, as opposed to Traditional Chinese Characters, which at present are more commonly used in Hong Kong, Taiwan and Macau.

Click here to view a full listing of textbooks and lessons by Alliance program and course.

BEIJ CHIN100 Beginning Chinese I
BEIJ CHIN101 Beginning Chinese II
BEIJ CHIN200 Intermediate Chinese I
BEIJ CHIN201 Intermediate Chinese II
BEIJ CHIN300 Advanced Chinese I
BEIJ CHIN301 Advanced Chinese II
BEIJ CHIN400 Advanced Chinese III
BEIJ CHIN401 Advanced Chinese IV
BEIJ CHIN600 Advanced Readings in Chinese

Elective Courses

All area studies courses are taught in English and meet for six class hours per week. Students must enroll in one from the following list. Students with at least three semesters of Chinese may elect to participate in a 3 credit internship to replace one of their area studies courses.

BEIJ SOCS 260 Issues in Contemporary Chinese Society and Culture (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)

This course examines the transformation in Chinese society since the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, with emphasis on the changes brought about in the wake of the economic reforms of the 1980s and 1990s. Topics include the developments in urban and rural social transformation introduced by the reforms, the changing relationship between the individual and society, the urban and rural divide, and population control and the one child policy. Students explore the social consequences of China's rapid integration into the global economy. All students complete a Capstone Project as part of this course.

BEIJ FSCF 360 Contemporary China through Film (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Professor Teng Jimeng's CV

This course examines contemporary China through study of the themes in Chinese cinema from the May Fourth and Republican era (1911-1949), the Maoist era (1949-1978) and the Reform era (1979-present), including films by 5th and 6th Generation Chinese directors. Students will explore the artistic merits of these films and will consider Chinese representations of the themes of cultural, social, and political change.

BEIJ ECCD370 China's Economic Development: 1978 to the Present-and Beyond (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)

In the last twenty-five years, China has been the fastest growing economy in the world. In this course, students explore the historical stages and effectiveness of the economic policies that have shaped China's emergence as a major player in the global economy. Students examine the challenges posed by economic development and the prospects for China's economic future.

BEIJ CFPL 370 Introduction to Chinese Foreign Policy (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)

This class provides an overview of Chinese foreign policy from 1949 through 2008. The first six weeks of class present historical and cultural background from 1949-2002. The remaining portion of the semester is devoted to exploring China's foreign policy during the Hu Jintao administration (2003-present), providing an overview of foreign policy structures, principles, general practices, and characteristics of China's current interstate relationships.

BEIJ ENVI 380 China and the Environment (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)

Understanding and responding to China’s environmental challenges is one of the most important tasks facing not only the Chinese government and its people but also the international community. This course offers a comprehensive overview of these challenges from water and soil pollution to desertification and reforestation to energy and agricultural production. The course presents a historical overview of different phases of China’s relationship with its environment. It will then analyze China’s environmental challenges politically, economically, and demographically. The course also examines the ways in which China and the international community understand and respond to various local, regional, and global dimensions of China’s economic growth and its environmental implications.

BEIJ INTS380 Internship (20 hours/week, 3 credits)
Professor Paul Mooney's CV

Students with at least three semesters of Chinese may elect to participate in a 3 credit internship to replace one of their area studies courses. Interns are placed in Chinese, joint-venture, or foreign-owned companies. Interns spend 20 hours per week at the internship site and complete a research project that includes a 5,000 word paper and oral presentation. Internships are supervised by faculty advisor, Dr. Ferchen, who meets with the student individually.

Capstone Academic Research Project

One important and distinctive component of Alliance programs in China is the Capstone Academic Research Project. Capstone projects challenge students to engage with Chinese people and deepen their own understanding of one aspect of Chinese policy, society, culture, or business practice.

The Capstone Project is a research project that makes use of more than academic readings and published research. While these are important components of research and should be included in the project, the Capstone is meant to help students take advantage of their setting. Students use resources they would not have access to at their home universities. Students also incorporate interviews, participant observation, and other methods to create a final paper and presentation. Many students develop their Capstone as part of a senior thesis or broader future research project.

The Capstone Project is a graded component of the required course taught in English, Issues in Contemporary Society and Culture. The Capstone Research Project comprises 40% of the grade for this course. Graded project work includes a project abstract with a problem statement and research methodology outline, a PowerPoint presentation, and a final paper.

Featured Capstone Project

Branna Williams (Meredith College)

"My general idea for the Capstone Project began the popular notion that the Chinese have had hardly any incorporation of dairy products in their diet from an early point in history. Growing up on a dairy farm, I was appalled with the discovery! I was interested to find out more about the perceptions of dairy and the habits concerning dairy products among China’s general population. I was also intrigued to learn more about why there has been minimal exposure to dairy in China, why this has been the case for so many years, and what really sparked the beginning of the market surge for dairy products in recent years. As I have conducted research and gathered information from multiple interviewees, I have been better able to understand recent industrial trends, current and future industrial expansion and investment, foreign involvement and competition, and general insight to the dairy industry’s relationship with the Chinese government."

Examples of Student Capstone Projects at BLCU

Attitudes Toward Gay and Lesbian Life in China
Martial Arts in China
Birth Control Policy and Women's Social Status in China
Chinese Contemporary Arts - 798 Art District
The Education of Migrant Workers' Children in Urban Areas
Intellectual Property Rights and Entrepreneurs in China
Street Vendors: Another Side of Chinese Culture
Rising Nation, Falling Hearts: Heart Disease in China
The Popularity of Wuxia films among Chinese Youth
How American Media Affect Intercultural Communication in China
The Increase of Cosmetic Surgery in China

For more Capstone project ideas from Alliance students in all our China programs, click here. To read more abstracts of Alliance students' capstones, click here.

Credits, Grades, and Transcripts

A study abroad experience is first and foremost an academic experience, and the Alliance for Global Education takes the process of credit and grade conversion seriously.

Credits

The Alliance provides information on credit transfer and conversion at the time that a student chooses courses. Credit appears on transcripts issued by Arcadia University at the completion of a student's term of study abroad. Credit is issued in U.S. semester hours, ensuring that students continue to make progress toward their degrees and verifying the full-time academic load a student carries while abroad.

The Arcadia University Undergraduate Academic Program Committee and Registrar work with the Alliance's overseas staff and National Advisory Board to review our conversions to make sure they accurately reflect a full-time load at the institution where a student is studying overseas. Equivalencies are based on what constitutes a full academic load for a degree-seeking host country student. Arcadia University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. Any grades that appear on an Arcadia transcript must meet Middle States' standards.

Grades

Students will receive a letter grade on a scale from A to F for every course they take while enrolled on an Alliance program. Although policies at students' individual home institutions may differ, the Alliance does not permit students to take courses on a credit/no credit basis. To determine grade equivalencies, the Alliance and Arcadia University look at data about grade distribution in the host institution and at information about what constitutes a minimum passing grade at the host institution in addition to the host institution's suggested "translation" scales. Arcadia University also conducts independent evaluations in accordance with the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools' standards. During overseas orientation, students receive a table explaining how their grades will appear on an Arcadia University transcript.

Transcripts

At the conclusion of a program, the College of Global Studies at Arcadia University will send an official Arcadia University transcript to a participant's home school and an unofficial copy to the participant. This transcript will list the course numbers and titles exactly as they appear on the original transcript from the university or program which the participant attended.

Because universities abroad have different administrative structures, transcripts may take longer to issue than they do at U.S. institutions. While the timeline varies by program, a general timeline for issuing transcripts is:

Fall programs - transcript issued in late February
Spring, Summer, and Academic Year programs - transcript issued in late September

If you have a question about the process, please feel free to contact your program manager responsible.

Please note: Your transcripts will not be released if you have an outstanding balance due to program fees. Students enrolling in consecutive terms with the Alliance will not receive their first term transcript until their second term fees have been paid in full.

Participants can request additional copies of transcripts online or in writing at any time from the Arcadia University Registrar's Office.

Internships in Beijing

The Alliance offers an exciting internship course at both the Beijing BLCU and Shanghai SUFE programs. Internships are available in the spring, summer, and fall terms; however, specific placements are subject to availability.

Featured Internship Placements

Anthony Dodge (University of Minnesota)

Anthony works with the research team at the Peking University International Economic Law Institute. His current project involves researching Chinese companies and creating a white book of their current economic situation, prospects, and background.

Richelle Gamlam (George Washington University)

Richelle is creating a fundraising proposal for the Study Abroad Foundation, as well as compiling a donor database for companies with a stake in China to provide scholarships for Chinese students to study in the U.S.

Yoko Ishida (University of Minnesota)

Yoko assists full-time staff members at Huiling Community Service in supporting individuals with learning and physical disabilities with their daily activities and on field trips. She also helps with researching and writing grant proposals.

Zach Coats (Southwestern University)

Zach is taking the lead at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies on an internal initiative to map and research the strategies, the funding opportunities, and SWOT analyses of East Asian IFRC branches to create a white paper to inform the Beijing office’s strategic planning.

Sample Placements

In Beijing, internship placements are subject to availability and may include Chinese and foreign businesses, NGOs, and government organizations. The Alliance makes every effort to place students according to their interests. Past BLCU students have interned with:

CERNET-Blackboard Information Technology (Beijing) Co. Ltd, a Chinese-American joint venture providing online education services worldwide
Samsung OpenTide China, a convergent management and digital marketing consulting firm
International Red Cross, an independent organization ensuring humanitarian assistance for victims of war and other situations of violence
Huiling Community Services, a charitable organization helping mentally challenged individuals and orphans learn basic life skills
CNN, a major English language television network that provides news coverage and services to more than 1.5 billion people
Peking University International Economic Law Institute, a research think-tank servicing multinational corporations and organizations
American Chamber of Commerce, a non-profit organization representing over 2,700 individuals from 1,200 U.S. companies doing business in China
International Union for Conservation of Nature, the world’s largest non-profit global network that addresses pressing environmental challenges

Pre-Requisites and Availability

At least 3 semesters of college level Chinese are required to participate in the internship. You will need to apply for the internship course when completing the Course Selection Form.

Credit and Course Requirements

The internship course is worth 3 credits and will replace one of the area studies courses. Credit is awarded for the academic component of the internship. Interns will complete a research project, including a final word paper (in English). The work is supervised throughout the term by a faculty advisor, who will meet with the student individually. In the fall and spring semesters, interns will spend 10-12 hours per week (or 120 hours a semester) at the internship site. During the summer term, interns will spend 20 hours per week at the internship site. For more information, see the BLCU Internship Guidelines.

Academic Calendar

Upcoming 2012 Program Dates

Spring 2012 term: February 1 – May 28
Summer 2012 term: June 13 – August 13
Fall 2012 term: August 22 – December 17
Spring 2013 term: February 13 – June 10

The Alliance Orientation is MANDATORY. You should make your travel plans accordingly. More details can be found in the Accepted Students: Travel Arrangements section.

Current 2012 Spring Beijing Program Calendar

Suggested flight departure: January 31
Arrival in Beijing: February 1
Orientation program in Beijing: February 2-5
Classes begin: February 6
Field Study Trip*: March 3-11
Midterm Exam: April 6
Independent Travel*: April 7-15
Long Weekend Trip*: May 11-13
Last day of final exams: May 25
Students may depart: May 26
Students must move out of housing (by 12:00 pm): May 28

Upcoming 2012 Summer Beijing Program Calendar

Suggested flight departure: June 12
Arrival in Beijing: June 13
Orientation program in Beijing: June 14-17
Classes begin: June 18
Long Weekend Trip*: July 11-15
Last day of final exams: August 10
Students may depart: August 11
Students must move out of housing (by 12:00 pm): August 13

* Organized trip dates are subject to change at any time.

Program Fees

Spring 2012 Program	$ 13,850
Summer 2012 Program	$ 6,780
Fall 2012 Program	$ 13,990

What's Included

The program cost includes tuition and fees, pre-departure materials, guidance with applying for a visa, orientation, housing, weekly activities, all textbooks, the services of a full-time Resident Director, medical and evacuation insurance, and a one-week Field Study Trip and a weekend trip in the fall and spring semesters and a five-day Field Study Trip in the summer term.

The program price does not include airfare to China, meals, passport and visa fees, independent travel, and other items not mentioned as included.

Please click here for a breakdown of spring, summer, and fall 2012 program fees and an itemized list of additional expenses that students will encounter while abroad.

Multiple Term or Academic Year Discount

The Alliance encourages students to enroll for more than one term and to consider studying with more than one Alliance program. Some students choose to spend fall term in one location and spring term in another. Others continue in our summer term after completing spring.

Students who continue into a second term with the Alliance receive a $500 discount on the program fee for the second term. All combinations (two semesters, semester plus summer, two semesters plus summer) are possible.

Student Housing

Students are housed in the International Student Dorm #17 in double rooms with other Alliance students. Rooms include: two single beds, two desks, two chairs, small book shelves, cabinets, desk lamps, TV, and air-conditioning, and a private bathroom. They are also wired for high-speed internet. Bed linens, including blankets and pillows, are provided by the dorm and cleaned once a week. Towels are not provided. Each floor is equipped with washing machines. Students can purchase tokens for the machines at the front desk of the dorm. Tokens cost approximately 4 RMB for the washing machine and 8 RMB for the dryer. There is also a kitchen with a stove and microwave on each floor. Students are able to borrow some basic cooking equipment from the Alliance.

Additionally, students in Beijing have the opportunity to live with a host family near the BLCU campus. The number of home stays available each semester is limited; students interested in this housing option should speak directly with the Program Manager.

Chinese Language Partners

Each student in Beijing is paired with a Chinese graduate student whose major is teaching Chinese as a foreign language. Alliance students and language partners meet one-on-one for Chinese tutoring three times a week for an hour per session. However, students and their language partners often meet more regularly than the minimum requirement to explore Beijing together. In addition to tutoring, language partners also help Alliance students become oriented to campus life.

Food and Meals

Meals are not included in the Alliance program fee. Students can choose to eat at the small restaurants on or nearby campus or eat in the dining halls, using meal debit cards. Students should budget $9 per day for meals.

Vegetarians will find that good food is available in China. Most restaurants serve lots of vegetables, tofu dishes, and staples such as rice, noodles, or dumplings. Note that some restaurants may use animal fat in preparing dishes.

Local Activities

Throughout the semester, students are invited to take part in a full schedule of excursions, events and lectures - all designed to enhance their understanding of China and the historical and modern influences that impact its culture and people.

Extra-Curricular Classes

The Alliance arranges extra-curricular classes which may include Chinese painting, calligraphy, cooking, taiji or other martial arts, pottery, seal carving, or paper cutting. These classes offer a wonderful opportunity to learn more about traditional Chinese culture.

In and Around Beijing

Students visit the great historical and cultural monuments of the capital, including the Great Wall, Temple of Heaven, and Summer Palace. Specially designed activities also include visits to Beijing's art districts, lectures on China's environmental protection policies, and/or workshops on Chinese food culture. A trip to a village outside of the city will allow students to better understand rural life in China. Below is a sampling of activities from previous semesters. Specific activities for future terms are subject to change:

Forbidden City and Tian'anmen Square Tour

Students visit the Forbidden City and Tian'anmen Square, typically during their orientation. The tour is followed by Wang Fujing shopping street tour and Chinese acrobat show.

Houhai Lake Hutong Tour and Visit to Old Beijing Residence Houses

This tour includes some of the oldest residential neighborhoods in Beijing, with beautiful traditional Chinese courtyard houses. Previous students visited a local artist's house and paper cutting gallery. They also enjoyed lunch with a family in one of the courtyards and learned to make dumplings.

Hiking the Great Wall

For the hiking expedition, students travel to Hebei province to hike an 11 kilometer stretch of one the best-preserved original sections of the wall.

Biking Tour of the Olympic Stadiums and the Olympic Village

On this great biking tour, students got to see the Bird's Nest Olympic venue, Water Cube, and the Fencing, Field Hockey, Tennis, and Archery Centers. They also cycled through the Olympic Village, home to athletes during the Olympics, and the Olympic Park which has a perfect view of the entire Olympic area.

Minority Park Visit

As part of the core course, students and their sociology professor visited the Minority Park for an introduction to the numerous ethnic minority groups in China. A guest speaker with a research focus on minority policies in China also joined the group.

American Chamber of Commerce

Four "AmCham" staff members met with Alliance students to talk about US-China relations, trade policies, and cooperation between the American Chamber of Commerce and the US and Chinese governments. They also introduced their personal study abroad/work abroad experience and offered suggestions for professional development in a China focused career.

Lectures and Film Screenings with Local Artists

Past Beijing students had the opportunity to learn firsthand from local writers, filmmakers, musicians and/or calligraphers about Chinese art forms.

Ming Dynasty Tombs

During this activity, students visited the resting place of 13 Chinese emperors. The tombs are located approximately 30 miles north of downtown Beijing at the tranquil foot of the Jundu Mountains.

Field Study Trips

The Alliance organizes a one-week field study trip for students during the fall and spring semesters and a five-day field study trip during the summer term. Beijing students will travel to Qinghai, Sichuan or Yunnan province, exciting destinations that contrast with Beijing. Field study trips are designed to give students a greater understanding of Chinese culture, society, and economic development. As part of their Capstone Projects, students will continue to investigate an area of particular interest during this trip.

Additionally, a weekend trip to a nearby city is also organized during the fall and spring semesters.

Semester Field Study Trip

Qinghai Province

Located on the Tibetan Plateau, Qinghai is considered one of the most beautiful regions in China. Students may visit Ta'er Monastery, one of the six most famous Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in the world, travel to Qinghai Lake, the largest salt water lake in China and one of China’s best bird watching sites, or explore the ancient tombs of Liuwan. Students will behold the breathtaking scenery, witness the contrast in development in the region versus the coastal provinces, and gain a deeper understanding of Qinghai’s minority nationalities.

Sichuan Province

Sichuan offers students the opportunity to explore the mysterious lands of Jiuzhaigou, one of the best preserved wild life havens in China, and Emei Mountain, one of China's four famous Buddhist mountains with exquisite natural beauty and a long history of religious culture. Visits to Chengdu or Chongqing allow a glimpse into modern city life in the southwest. On this trip, students discover the contrast in Chinese economic and social development along the coast versus the inland provinces, learn about government policies affecting this region, gain a deeper understanding of Sichuan's minority nationalities, and relish the hot and spicy flavors of Sichuanese cuisine.

Yunnan Province

Yunnan province in southwestern China offers China's most diverse population of ethnic minority cultures, stunning scenery, and a rich history. Students gain deep insight into Yunnan's local culture and artistic heritage. Students will have the opportunity to experience urban life in Kunming, visit small Yi and Miao minority villages, and hike Snow Mountain. Participants of the trip may also explore the great natural beauty of the Stone Forest, the rain forest of Xishuangbanna, or participate in an extensive encounter with the Bai minority culture in the ancient town of Dali.

Summer Field Study Trip

The location of the 5-day summer field study trip varies each year. In the past, Beijing summer students have traveled to Xiahe, Qinghai, and Xi'an.

Contact a Program Graduate

How do Alliance program graduates look back on their experience studying in Asia? What advice can they offer on making the most of your time abroad? Contact these students to ask your questions!

To view graduates from other Alliance programs, click here. Interact with graduates via our Facebook and YouTube pages, too!

Nicole Westergaard

China Now

University of Iowa – Chinese, Physiology, and International Relations Major

nicole.westergaard@gmail.com

Hi, my name is Nicole Westergaard and I'm a junior at the University of Iowa. I have a triple major in Chinese, Integrated Physiology, and International Relations with the overall goal of heading to medical school. It seems like a strange combination of majors but I've always been encouraged to do what I love, the ending result is a combination of science and politics. Originally I never pictured myself heading out to China, however, now that I look back I can't imagine a more perfect and rewarding manner in which to spend my semester. Between work and classes I never thought I'd have the time, however, once I made the decision to take the plunge I never looked back. In all honesty, studying in China was originally a ploy to improve not just my Chinese, but my resume. However, my time in Beijing quickly evolved into far more than a certificate and brief line on a piece of paper. Living and studying in China opened my eyes to a different way of life that cannot be fully conveyed through a textbook. I would spend hours talking with the lady selling fruit on the street outside my dorm in a language I had previously been beyond inept at about topics I didn't even know existed. I was enticed by the culture and I was fortunate enough to be surrounded by teachers and staff that were willing to go above and beyond in every way to help me get the most out of my time. I ended up coming away with far more than I could have expected in the form of friends, memories, and knowledge. Before Beijing I used to say that Washington D.C. and Newell, Iowa where my two homes, however, after the amazing four months in Beijing that seemed to slip by in the blink of an eye, I can proudly name Beijing as not just a place to live, but a home. I am eager to get back as soon as possible and for anyone that has any reservations about studying abroad my advice to you is that you aren't young forever and there will never be a more perfect time than now! hide

Sydney Gorman

China Now

University of Illinois Urbana – International Relations Major

no.star11@gmail.com

As someone of Chinese ancestry, this trip to China was just as much a personal adventure as it was culturally and academically fulfilling. I met my Beijing relatives for the first time, and explored the history of my family in connection with the Qing Dynasty. In choosing a study abroad program, one of the key benefits of the Alliance program was the opportunity for travelling to more remote areas of China such as Gansu and Qinghai. The program also provided planning resources for my independent study trip to Hainan and Shanghai. Some of my favorite memories include dining with families in Qinghai and Gansu and learning about Tibetan culture and the Buddhist religion, lifestyles so much different from the fast-pace life of big cities like Beijing. However, Beijing has an endless number of activities to choose from; whether it’s pick-up sports with Chinese students on the Beijing Language and Culture University campus or making a trip to the East side of the city, there’s always something to do. Another great opportunity is that you will have the chance to establish friendships with people from all over the world who are studying Chinese; in some cases, Chinese might be your only way to communicate with another person! All of these experiences have given me a better sense of self, amazing new friends, and an unforgettable experience. The Alliance is a truly exceptional program, and I hope that you choose them as your Study Abroad Guide! hide

Matthew Blanchard

China Now

Norwich University – International Relations Major

mblancha@student.norwich.edu

To start off, my name is Matthew Blanchard. I studied Mandarin Chinese while in high school, and in June 2010 I traveled to China for the first time in my life. I spent 5 weeks in Beijing, and on weekends I traveled to Shanghai and Xi’an. In August 2010, I started school at Norwich University, as a recruit in the Norwich University Corps of Cadets. After my first year, I traveled to Beijing for the second time. Last summer, I spent two months in Beijing with the Alliance program at Beijing Language and Culture University. I plan on traveling to China in the near future, to continue my language study. hide

Shane Woodard

China Now

The Citadel – History Major

woodards1@citadel.edu

“The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeing new landscapes, but having new eyes.” (Marcel Proust) Hearing this before my trip to China made no sense to me, but after my trip I really did have “new eyes”! My name is Shane Woodard and I was part of the Alliance for Global Education Study Abroad summer program in Beijing, China. Right now, I am a senior undergraduate, majoring in History and minoring in East Asian Studies with plans to commission in the United States Navy next year.

My interest in China started while I was in high school and continued to grow once I began college. I always wanted to travel to China, but never could find the time or money to make the trip. Last summer, however, I was able to make it happen and I will never regret it! Initially, I was pretty nervous because I had never travelled out of country and I had only recently begun to study Chinese as a language. With my first steps off the plane in Beijing, however, my worries were blown away. The program in Beijing was fantastic! We saw everything from temples, like the Temple of Heaven, other provinces, like Gansu, to the Great Wall of China. We even got to climb the Wall! The people were amazing and the culture awe inspiring.

The classes were great and the teachers knew exactly how to teach us while making the common classroom monotony non-existent. They would take us on language practicums to talk with the locals and every practicum was new and exciting. We never knew what was around the next corner! As my elective I chose to learn about China’s Foreign Policy and how it interacts with the world. It is amazing what one can learn from a different perspective. I think my favorite part of the whole trip was having the opportunity to be in iconic places like the Great Wall and Tiananmen Square, which I had only read about in books. I look forward to sharing my experience with you! hide

Daniel Mixa

China Now

Intensive Chinese Language

International Business in China

University of Tampa – Business Major

dmixa@spartans.ut.edu

Back in the summer of 2010 I was preparing to study abroad in Shanghai, China. I was overly excited. Before coming to China I spent a good year studying Chinese on my own and had spent countless hours examining and studying Chinese culture. I knew that China would be a fascinating place and that I would enjoy my study abroad. Half way through my fall semester at the Shanghai University of Finance and Economics I knew that my time in China would not have been enough; I fell in love with China, I couldn’t leave. I then decided to attend the Alliance’s spring program at Fudan University, Shanghai. I then once again was not satisfied. I attended the Alliance’s summer program at Beijing Language and Culture University; during that time I stayed with a Chinese host family and also interned with a Chinese Magazine. Coming back home was bitter sweet; I was happy to be home, but sad to be leaving China. My experiences in China are priceless; I met many great people, I visited amazing places that most people will never see, I attained a great understanding of Chinese Culture, and most importantly, I significantly improved my Chinese skills. Now my Chinese is very good; it may take years to attain fluency but I know that if I build on my current skills fluency is imminent. China has become my second home and I hope to live and work there right after graduation! hide

David Thompson

China Now

George Washington University – Political Science and Chinese Major

dthmpsn@gwmail.gwu.edu

Hi, I’m a junior at George Washington University majoring in political science and Chinese. My interest in China began freshman year of high school when I decided to stop taking French and began taking Chinese. Since then I have traveled to China four times including my most recent semester abroad in Beijing. Though several of my friends went to China for intensive language programs, I felt that the Alliance program had a more suitable balance of courses. Of course continuing my Chinese was a high priority, but I also wanted to be able to understand how Chinese people lived and worked and through an internship set up by the program I was able to do so. I worked at the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent societies and through the work that I did I was able to directly help people in need. My internship culminated in a business trip to Sichuan to aid those affected by the 2008 Sichuan earthquake. The Alliance program also gave me the opportunity to travel and see the disparity in China. It’s not really possible to sum up my experience abroad in a single story—there were too many different places and people that I met. Though I will say my time in Beijing and in China as a whole was an incredible adventure and one that will be hard to forget. If you want to talk about the program or my experience I would be happy to oblige. hide