Shanghai
China
21st Century City
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Program Overview
In the last century Shanghai has experienced exponential growth from its origins as a colonial trading hub to a bustling international metropolis and global financial center. Our Shanghai: 21st Century City program examines this process of rapid urbanization, China’s encounter with the world, energy and water issues, and green technology initiatives in this dynamic Asian megalopolis.
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 Fudan programs running smoothly.
PRE-REQUISITES
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at an accredited U.S. institution
- No prior Chinese language study is required
ACADEMIC STRUCTURE
For a total of 15 credits in fall and spring terms and 9 credits in the summer term, students take the following courses:
- Chinese language courses
- English-taught area studies courses
Classes are offered exclusively for Alliance students. Chinese language course placement is contingent upon the results of a placement exam conducted after student arrival in China. Language classes have a maximum of 8 students per class and are taught by language faculty selected and trained by the Alliance. Area studies courses are taught by faculty from various universities in Shanghai.
On Location in Shanghai
Shanghai offers students an unparalleled opportunity to experience China in a city undergoing economic rebirth and revitalization. Shanghai is the place to be to witness the economic and socio-cultural transformations of modern China (as well as to observe the disparities that remain). Shanghai has traditionally been one of the most important financial and business centers of Asia, and is becoming known as "the Wall Street of the East". After the Second World War and the establishment of the People's Republic of China, foreign investment was discouraged. Today, however, Shanghai is again a multinational hub of finance and business and one of the world's major financial centers.
Check out this interactive map of the Alliance's resources across Shanghai:
View Alliance On Location: Shanghai in a larger map.
Shanghai is a remarkable phenomenon in the evolution of global metropolises today. There is no place like this once sleepy fishing town which has become the largest city in China and the country's most important commercial, financial, and industrial center. One must experience Shanghai to begin to comprehend this diverse and constantly changing nation. Pudong (in eastern Shanghai) was the site of the 2010 World Expo. The entire city is still buzzing with excitement about welcoming 73 million domestic and international visitors.
Neighborhood
The campus neighbourhood, located directly within the center of Shanghai’s university district, is lined with numerous small shops and restaurants to serve the transient student population. Within two blocks of student housing, you can find many small shops and cafes as well as the cuisines of Xinjiang, Hunan, Sichuan, Korea, Japan, Mexico, the U.S.A., and more.
Just a short distance from campus and Fudan’s east gate is Wujiaochang (五角场), a long-standing commercial node that has undergone a dramatic makeover in recent years. Today you will find two large shopping malls with scores of shops and restaurants of all kinds, including electronics, books, clothing, a movie theater, KTV, numerous bakeries, Starbucks, Wal-Mart, Watson’s, and a Shanghai No. 1 Food Mart. You’ll also find H&M, Haagen Daz, and Sephora all in a row, as well as The Bank of China, ICBC, and ATM machines for China Construction Bank, Merchants Bank, and others. While lacking in student hangouts and cultural activities this neighborhood is not, at Wujiaochang students can easily catch metro line 10 downtown to experience the rest of what this exciting metropolis has to offer.
Fudan University
Fudan University （复旦大学）was founded in Shanghai in 1905. It is one of the leading universities in China with an international reputation for academic excellence. The university's name is taken from a proverb of Confucius and means 'a new morning' in Chinese, ever pushing forward with renewed energy. Fudan University, with a student body of 35,000, is composed of 17 colleges offering a comprehensive range of majors and disciplines.
Fall and Spring Curriculum
This 15-credit program offers 9 class hours per week of Chinese language as well as the opportunity to take various courses in English that examine modern Shanghai’s rapid urbanization, China’s encounter with the World, energy and water issues, and green technology initiatives in this dynamic Asian megacity.
Beginning in Spring 2014, Students must enroll in:
- Chinese Society in the 21st Century (3 credits)
- Two elective courses (6 credits)
- Chinese language (6 credits) - (9 credits, Fall 2013)
Core Course
FUDA SOCI260 Chinese Society in the 21st Century (required, 3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
This course examines the transformation in Chinese society since the founding of the People's Republic of China, with emphasis on the changes brought about in the wake of the economic reforms of the 1980s and 1990s. Topics include the urban and rural social transformation introduced by the reforms, the changing relationship between individual and society, the urban/rural divide, 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 Research Project as part of this course.
Elective Courses
All elective courses are taught in English and meet for three class hours per week. Class lectures, readings, and discussions are complimented with relevant fieldwork and site visits. Students must enroll in two courses from the following list.
Those elective courses listed in italics will be offered for Alliance students beginning in the Spring 2014 semester.
FUDA URBN390 Urban Planning (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
As a laboratory of urban planning in China, Shanghai’s urban planning department continues to encounter the stresses and opportunities of a rapidly urbanizing country – even as urban planning has changed from being a Maoist era provider of social goods to a supporter of China’s expansion through the new real estate market. Students investigate various stakeholders’ positions and make both design and policy suggestions when assessing issues such as: pursuing or pinpointing designs, landmark architecture, the Bund silhouette as part of Shanghai’s brand, the effects of Shanghai’s increasing and diversifying population, rising housing costs and its relationship with domicide and gentrification, and urban sprawl.
FUDA ARCH392 Architecture and Design: China’s Encounter with the World (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Shanghai’s unparalled history of melding Chinese and international architecture begins with its birth as a site of colonial encounter. An exploration of the architecture and city planning of the concession period is followed by consideration of the Mao-era vision of the industrial socialist city and the repurposing of architectural heritage. The course concludes by considering the impact of the marketizing reform era as well as Shanghai’s newest internationally designed landmark buildings and its branding as a ‘green’ city. Students argue policy and design aspects of the sites concerned and consider whether Shanghai’s melded approach to international architectural encounter will enable it to escape its possible 'generic' future.
FUDA ENVI 385 Energy, Water, and Green Technology (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
As one of the world’s largest and fastest growing cities, intricately connected to global flows of commodities and people, Shanghai represents an enormous environmental challenge regionally, nationally, and globally. With a rapidly growing population, rising lifestyle expectations, and continuing industrial production, urban China’s usage of water and energy resources is a key question for those concerned with a sustainable future. This course localizes these issues by investigating Shanghai as a case study, and students practice methods used by researchers and policy makers to address largest questions on urban environmental issues in China.
FUDA HIST310 Pearl of the Orient: Shanghai’s Colonial History (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Already known as an important location for shipping and trade, Shanghai became an international hub following its designation as a treaty port in 1842. This course focuses on how global flows of people, money, goods and ideas have formed and transformed the city since its colonial opening, during the Maoist period, and into the current post-Reform era of marketization. In addition, discussions address how foreign colonial era ideas interacted with Chinese concepts and values as well as laid the foundations for the Republican and Communist political ideologies which are being transformed today once again.
FUDA SOCI265 Contemporary Urban Culture (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
The residents of Shanghai are proud of being exemplars of China’s rapidly urbanizing population and many outsiders are drawn by Shanghai’s cosmopolitan big city chic. Yet not all of the city’s residents or visitors have access to its fast-paced urban lifestyle. Class modules include: Shanghai’s internationalized pop culture; the high cost of living; mobility, loneliness, and associative life; the idea of becoming elite; and business and pleasure. Utilizing the theoretical and methodological approaches introduced in class materials and discussions, students investigate one topic through interviews, observation and/or other primary sources.
FUDA IAFF350 Contemporary Chinese Politics: State, Party, People (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
This course examines the current political leadership of China, urban and rural relations, nationalism and foreign policy, mass participation, the emergence of the rule of law, and state and society issues.
FUDA ECON370 Opening and Reform: China's Economic Development since 1978 (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.
FUDA IAFF340 Sino-U.S. Relations: Superpower and Realignment (3 class hours/week, 3 credits)
The U.S.-China relationship is one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world. This course examines their intricate relationship, focusing on the period after 1949, when the People's Republic of China was proclaimed. What roles have trade and human rights played in the relationship? How have recent incidents, such as the American bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade in 1999 and the 9/11 terrorist attacks, influenced the strategic Beijing-Washington relationship? What lies in the future, as China rises?
Language Courses
Chinese Language (required, 9 class hours/week, 6 credits)
No prior language study is required for admission to this track. Upon taking a placement exam after arrival, students will be placed into the appropriate language level. All courses emphasize listening, speaking, reading and writing. The Alliance programs teach Simplified Chinese Characters, standardized Chinese characters officially used in Mainland China. Click here to view a full listing of textbooks and lessons by Alliance program and course.
The syllabi below reflect the 9 credit hour course being offered to Alliance students through Fall 2013. More information coming soon on our new 6 credit hour course syllabi.
- FUDA CHIN100 Beginning Chinese I
- FUDA CHIN101 Beginning Chinese II
- FUDA CHIN200 Intermediate Chinese I
- FUDA CHIN201 Intermediate Chinese II
- FUDA CHIN300 Advanced Chinese I
- FUDA CHIN301 Advanced Chinese II
- FUDA CHIN400 Advanced Chinese III
- FUDA CHIN401 Advanced Chinese IV
- FUDA CHIN600 Advanced Readings in Chinese
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:
- One elective course (3 credits)
- Chinese language (6 credits)
Elective Courses
All elective courses are taught in English and meet for three class hours per week. Class lectures, readings, and discussions are complimented with relevant fieldwork and site visits. Students must enroll in two courses from the following list.
Those elective courses listed in italics will be offered for Alliance students beginning in the summer 2014 term.
FUDA URBN390 Urban Planning (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
As a laboratory of urban planning in China, Shanghai’s urban planning department continues to encounter the stresses and opportunities of a rapidly urbanizing country – even as urban planning has changed from being a Maoist era provider of social goods to a supporter of China’s expansion through the new real estate market. Students investigate various stakeholders’ positions and make both design and policy suggestions when assessing issues such as: pursuing or pinpointing designs, landmark architecture, the Bund silhouette as part of Shanghai’s brand, the effects of Shanghai’s increasing and diversifying population, rising housing costs and its relationship with domicide and gentrification, and urban sprawl.
FUDA ARCH392 Architecture and Design: China’s Encounter with the World (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Shanghai’s unparalled history of melding Chinese and international architecture begins with its birth as a site of colonial encounter. An exploration of the architecture and city planning of the concession period is followed by consideration of the Mao-era vision of the industrial socialist city and the repurposing of architectural heritage. The course concludes by considering the impact of the marketizing reform era as well as Shanghai’s newest internationally designed landmark buildings and its branding as a ‘green’ city. Students argue policy and design aspects of the sites concerned and consider whether Shanghai’s melded approach to international architectural encounter will enable it to escape its possible 'generic' future.
FUDA ENVI 385 Energy, Water, and Green Technology (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
As one of the world’s largest and fastest growing cities, intricately connected to global flows of commodities and people, Shanghai represents an enormous environmental challenge regionally, nationally, and globally. With a rapidly growing population, rising lifestyle expectations, and continuing industrial production, urban China’s usage of water and energy resources is a key question for those concerned with a sustainable future. This course localizes these issues by investigating Shanghai as a case study, and students practice methods used by researchers and policy makers to address largest questions on urban environmental issues in China.
FUDA HIST310 Pearl of the Orient: Shanghai’s Colonial History (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
Already known as an important location for shipping and trade, Shanghai became an international hub following its designation as a treaty port in 1842. This course focuses on how global flows of people, money, goods and ideas have formed and transformed the city since its colonial opening, during the Maoist period, and into the current post-Reform era of marketization. In addition, discussions address how foreign colonial era ideas interacted with Chinese concepts and values as well as laid the foundations for the Republican and Communist political ideologies which are being transformed today once again.
FUDA SOCI265 21st Century Urban Culture (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
The residents of Shanghai are proud of being exemplars of China’s rapidly urbanizing population and many outsiders are drawn by Shanghai’s cosmopolitan big city chic. Yet not all of the city’s residents or visitors have access to its fast-paced urban lifestyle. Class modules include: Shanghai’s internationalized pop culture; the high cost of living; mobility, loneliness, and associative life; the idea of becoming elite; and business and pleasure. Utilizing the theoretical and methodological approaches introduced in class materials and discussions, students investigate one topic through interviews, observation and/or other primary sources.
FUDA SOCI260 Chinese Society in the 21st Century (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/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.
FUDA IAFF350 Contemporary Chinese Politics: State, Party, People (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
This course examines the current political leadership of China, urban and rural relations, nationalism and foreign policy, mass participation, the emergence of the rule of law, and state and society issues.
FUDA ECON370 Opening and Reform: China's Economic Development Since 1978 (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.
FUDA IAFF340 Sino-U.S. Relations: Superpower and Realignment (6 class hours/week, 3 credits)
The U.S.-China relationship is one of the most important bilateral relationships in the world. This course examines their intricate relationship, focusing on the period after 1949 when the People's Republic of China was created. What roles have trade and human rights played in the relationship? How have recent incidents, such as the American bombing of the Chinese embassy in Belgrade in 1999 and the 9/11 terrorist attacks, influenced the strategic Beijing-Washington relationship? What lies in the future, as China rises?
Language Courses
Chinese Language (required, 8 class hours/week, 6 credits)
No prior language study is required for admission to this track. Upon taking a placement exam after arrival, students will be placed into the appropriate language level. All courses emphasize listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The Alliance programs teach Simplified Chinese Characters, which are standardized Chinese characters officially used in mainland China. Click here to view a full listing of textbooks and lessons by Alliance program and course.
- FUDA CHIN100 Beginning Chinese I
- FUDA CHIN101 Beginning Chinese II
- FUDA CHIN200 Intermediate Chinese I I
- FUDA CHIN201 Intermediate Chinese II
- FUDA CHIN300 Advanced Chinese I
- FUDA CHIN301 Advanced Chinese II
- FUDA CHIN400 Advanced Chinese III
- FUDA CHIN401 Advanced Chinese IV
- FUDA CHIN600 Advanced Readings in Chinese
Faculty
Dr. Zhu Jianfeng, FUDA SOCI 260: Chinese Society in the 21st Century
Dr. Liu Chunrong, FUDA IAFF 350: Contemporary Chinese Politics: State, Party,
People
Dr. Keng Shu, FUDA ECON 370: Opening and Reform: China's Economic
Development since 1978
Dr. Ni Shixiong, FUDAN IAFF 340: Sino-U.S. Relations: Superpower and Realignment
Capstone 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
Danny Gleason (Boston College)
"Since 1949 Christianity has become increasingly common in China; its recent growth far exceeds that of any other religion. The energy behind Chinese Christianity, in particular “underground” Christianity, slowly but surely amassing throughout college campuses and house churches, is impossible to ignore. As a response to such overwhelming social movement, my Capstone, through original and secondary research, tries to identify the reasons behind the staggering growth of Christianity throughout China on an individual and national scale. Writing my Capstone was a great experience and allowed me to learn a lot more about a topic that I was very interested in. A definite highlight for me in the research process was joining a "house church," an unregistered makeshift church that is technically illegal but growing in popularity. I got to see first hand how why these churches are becoming so popular! After a full day of practicing for their upcoming Christmas concert (which included a lot of singing and dancing), I unexpectedly found some very good friends! It was the most fun research I have ever conducted."
Examples of Student Capstone Projects at Fudan
- Would You Marry My Child? The Search for a Spouse in Today's China
- 2010 Shanghai Expo: Culture in a Coma
- Chinese Pop Music: The Quest for Modernization
- Scientific Labels on Healthy Food
- Using English as a Fashion Statement
- Concept of Self and Other in the Wake of Chinese State Socialism
- Global Climate Change in China
- Why I Won't Ever Really Fit in in China: No Place for a Female Jock in China
- The Place of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Modern China
- Obesity in China: As China's Wallets Grow…So Does Its People
- Video Game Culture in China: The Past, Present, Future and Everything
- China - Japan Relations (and the Nanjing Massacre)
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.
All Alliance courses have been reviewed and approved by Arcadia University’s Undergraduate Academic Programs Committee. 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 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. Student grades are determined by criteria set forth in course syllabi. As noted above, all Alliance courses are reviewed and approved by Arcadia University’s Undergraduate Academic Programs Committee. Arcadia University is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools.
Transcripts
At the conclusion of a program, the College of Global Studies at Arcadia University sends an official Arcadia University transcript to a participant's home school and an unofficial copy to the participant.
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: Transcripts are not released for students with an outstanding balance due to program fees. Students enrolling in consecutive terms with the Alliance do not receive their first term transcript until their second term fees are paid in full.
Participants can request additional copies of transcripts online or in writing at any time from the Arcadia University Registrar's Office.
Academic Calendar
Program Dates
- Spring 2013 term: February 13 – June 10
- Summer 2013 term: June 19 – August 19
- Fall 2013 term: August 28 – December 23
- Spring 2014 term: February 12 - June 9
- Summer 2014 term: June 18 - August 18
- Fall 2014 term: August 27 - December 22
The Alliance Orientation is MANDATORY. You should make your travel plans accordingly. More details can be found in the Accepted Students: Travel Arrangements section.
Given the program’s busy academic schedule, weekly local activities and excursions, and field study trips, the Alliance STRONGLY DISCOURAGES students from hosting visitors until the end of the semester. Please encourage family and/or friends to visit AFTER the program has ended.
2013 Spring Shanghai Program Calendar
- Suggested flight departure: February 12
- Arrival in Shanghai: February 13
- Orientation: February 13-17
- Classes begin: February 18
- Field Study Trip*: March 16-24
- Mid-term Exams: April 19
- Independent Travel week*: April 20-28
- Long Weekend Trip*: May 17-19
- Last day of final exams: June 7
- Students may depart: June 8
- Students must move out of housing (by 12 noon): June 10
2013 Summer Shanghai Program Calendar
- Suggested flight departure: June 18
- Arrival in Shanghai: June 19
- Orientation: June 19-23
- Classes begin: June 24
- Field Study Trip*: July 18-21
- Last day of final exams: August 16
- Students may depart: August 17
- Students must vacate housing (by 12 noon): August 19
* Organized trip dates are subject to change at any time.
Program Fees
| Spring 2013 Program | $ 13,990 |
| Summer 2013 Program | $ 7,100 |
| Fall 2013 Program | $ 14,200 |
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, a one-week Field Study Trip and a weekend Field Study Trip in the fall and spring semester, 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 2013 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 Tonghe International Apartments across the street from the north gate of the university and a 10-15 minute walk from Alliance classrooms. The two bedroom apartments are shared by one Alliance student and one Fudan University student, while three bedroom apartments are shared by two Alliance students and one Fudan student. The apartments include a bathroom, kitchen, and a furnished bedroom with desk, desk lamp, closet space, and a remote control heating/air-conditioning unit. The bedrooms also include sheets, pillows, and a comforter. Towels are not provided. The furnished common areas include a TV, filtered water dispenser, refrigerator, and stove-top gas burners or a hotplate in the kitchen. Some apartments also have a small washing machine. Filtered water is replenished at student expense (12 RMB/$1.80 per tank) with the help of the Tonghe front desk staff. Please note that no kitchen utensils or other supplies are provided. During orientation all students are required to pay a 500 RMB (approximately $74 US dollars) housing deposit. If there is no damage to the room at the end of the program, this deposit will be refunded in full.
Chinese Roommates
A distinct feature of the Fudan program is the opportunity to share an apartment with a Chinese student studying at Fudan. Each apartment will house one or two Alliance students in single rooms and one Chinese student, also in a single room. This offers the opportunity for Alliance students to get to know Chinese students on campus quickly and to engage in language and cultural exchange with their new friends. Chinese roommates are invited to attend many of the organized activities. Former Alliance students consistently rate this experience as one of their favorite program features.
Food and Meals
Meals are not included in the Alliance program fee. Students should budget approximately $10 per day for meals. Students may cook in their apartment kitchen or may take their meals at one of the cafeterias on campus. There are also numerous casual restaurants nearby.
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 term, students are invited to take part in a full schedule of excursions, events and lectures 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 Shanghai
Shanghai program students will visit the famous sites of Shanghai including Yuyuan Park, the historic Bund along the Huangpu River, and the former French concession. Activities may include cultural performances, museum visits, special lectures, visits to artists' studios, architectural walking tours, and many opportunities to meet locals, including students from other campuses. Below is a sampling of activities from previous semesters. Specific activities for future terms are subject to change:
Lantern Festival
The Chinese Lantern Festival marks the end of Spring Festival (Chinese New Year). Students celebrated in the traditional Chinese fashion with colorful lanterns, dumplings (tang yuan) and riddles.
Shanghai Propaganda Poster Art Center
The art center exhibits selected propaganda posters displayed across China from 1949 to 1979. Students were given a tour of the facilities and poster collection by founder and owner Mr. Yang Peiming. For more information on the Propaganda Poster Art Centre, please visit http://www.shanghaipropagandaart.com/.
Visit Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center
To grasp Shanghai’s history and development, as well as its ambitious plans for the future, students visit the Shanghai Urban Planning Exhibition Center.
Yueju (Shaoxing) Opera Performance
Students were treated to a special performance of Yueju, a type of opera with a history of about 800 years and derived from a kind of story-singing. At first, it was performed with a small drum and hardwood clappers for rhythm, and choral and orchestral accompaniment was later added.
Visit to Xintiandi and the Chinese Communist Party Museum
The excursion to Xintiandi and the Chinese Communist Party Museum was led by the instructors of the "Issues in Contemporary Society and Culture" and "Contemporary Chinese Politics" courses. Students were encouraged to consider questions about tradition, modernization, and history and to pay attention to the ironies of their setting. Students are also asked to situate "Chinese culture" into a historical context of encountering the west.
World AIDS Day Discussion
Shao Jing, author of a very powerful academic article on the politics of HIV / AIDS and the value of bodies under a neoliberal regime, spoke to the Society and Culture class on World Aids Day. Shao Jing completed his Ph.D. at the University of Chicago and is now a professor at Nanjing University. Simon Tang, Office Director of the Chi Heng Foundation, also spoke about the Foundation’s work with children affected by AIDS in China.
"My Shanghai," Migrant Students’ Photography Exhibit
Students viewed “My Shanghai,” an exhibit showcasing photographs taken by sixth grade students from Jin Hu Primary School.
Acrobatics Show: Pu Jiang Qing
During orientation, students have the opportunity to see the breathtaking stunts of an acrobatics show, a form of performing arts that has existed in China for more than two thousand years.
Visit to the Shouchun Migrant School in Pudong
Students visited classrooms in small groups and communicate with migrant students in Chinese to understand their experiences in Shanghai--- and to teach them some basic English words.
Visit to Shanghai Roots and Shoots
Participants of this activity got a detailed picture of how an environmental NGO works in Shanghai. Student interested in environmental studies may have the opportunity to volunteer for Roots and Shoots programs.
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. Intensive Language and Contemporary Society students travel to Qinghai, Sichuan or Yunnan province, exciting destinations that contrast with Shanghai. Field study trips are designed to give students a greater understanding of Chinese culture, society, and economic development. Students often continue to research an area of particular interest for their Capstone Projects during this trip.
Also, a weekend trip nearby is 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 inland and salt water lake in China and one of China’s best bird watching sites, or explore the ancient tombs of Liuwan. Students behold the breathtaking scenery, witness the contrast in development in the region versus the coast, and gain a deeper understanding of Qinghai’s minority nationalities. Watch a past Qinghai trip video.
Sichuan Province
Our trip offers students the opportunity to explore the mysterious lands of Jiuzhaigou, one of China's best preserved wildlife havens, 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. 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 Sichuanese cuisine.
Yunnan Province
Yunnan province in southwestern China offers China's most diverse ethnic minority population, stunning scenery, and a rich history. Students gain deep insight into Yunnan's local culture and artistic heritage. They 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 five-day summer field study trip varies each year. In the past years, summer Intensive Language and Contemporary Society students have visited the historical and cultural sites of Beijing.
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!
Revell Schulte
21st Century City
George Washington University – Political Science Major
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Rocio Martinez
21st Century City
Bentley University – International Relations Major
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Ran Wei
21st Century City
George Washington University – International Affairs and Asian Studies Major
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Now I am back at GWU for my final year here, during which I really hope to help promote Alliance, as studying with the program was such a spectacular experience for me. hide
Nia Spooner
21st Century City
Intensive Chinese Language
Smith College – Education and Child Study Major
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Maricielo Solis
21st Century City
Wheaton College Massachusetts – International Relations Major
While... read more
While ajoring in international relations and hide
Andrew Ameter
21st Century City
Ohio State University Columbus – Marketing Major
Hey everyone! Although my major is marketing, I have a huge interest in both Chinese language and culture. This stemmed from taking international business courses that continually stressed the importance of the Chinese economy in the future... read more
Hey everyone! Although my major is marketing, I have a huge interest in both Chinese language and culture. This stemmed from taking international business courses that continually stressed the importance of the Chinese economy in the future. Last summer I studied abroad in Shanghai and it was one of the best experiences of my life. Not only did my language skills increase exponentially, but I gained a unique perspective that I'll carry with me the rest of my life. It left such an impression on me that I went back this summer for a marketing internship with my university! hide
Alexa McIsaac
21st Century City
Bryant University – Finance Major
Ni Hao! My name is Lexi McIsaac and I am currently a junior at Bryant University majoring in Accounting and concentrating in Chinese Language. Honestly before college, the extent of my knowledge about Chinese culture was chopsticks. Now I have traveled... read more
Ni Hao! My name is Lexi McIsaac and I am currently a junior at Bryant University majoring in Accounting and concentrating in Chinese Language. Honestly before college, the extent of my knowledge about Chinese culture was chopsticks. Now I have traveled to more than a dozen cities all across China- more than I have been to in the US.
Before going to China, my parents’ biggest concern was that I would stand out too much. I am blonde and blue eyed and did get quite the attention in China. During my first weeks, I felt almost like a celebrity having people stare, point, and even ask me to take pictures. But by the end of the program I barely noticed it and felt it was a great conversation starter to practice Chinese.
Another great memory of living in Shanghai was the convenience store owner by our apartment. I must have frequented it at least 3 times a day. The man was so friendly, always smiling and saying hello. By the end of the semester he was asking about my day and even coyly practicing English words when I bought things.
Studying abroad in Shanghai was both the best and most challenging experience I have ever had. I learned so much about Chinese culture, met so many great people, and even learned a lot about myself. I was given the opportunity to accomplish a capstone paper on expatriate tax in China which not only made me more interested in business opportunities in China, but proved to myself I was capable of some pretty intellectual research.
I would love to speak to anyone who has any questions about my experiences, travels, or just some advice on the program. hide
Daniel Gleason
21st Century City
Boston College – Theology Major
Hey, my name is Danny Gleason (葛丹宁) and I am currently a junior at Boston College pursuing a Theology major, Chinese minor, and a pre-med concentration. For the first two years of college, I had come to terms with the fact that I was going through with... read more
Hey, my name is Danny Gleason (葛丹宁) and I am currently a junior at Boston College pursuing a Theology major, Chinese minor, and a pre-med concentration. For the first two years of college, I had come to terms with the fact that I was going through with my Chinese minor as an excuse to “go abroad.” It was my ticket to live in a different country, learn about the culture, experience the people and come back a newer, wiser, worldlier person. Now, after 4 months of living in Shanghai and going to school at Fudan University, I can say with every fiber of my being that my semester in China was everything I imagined and more. I will go out on a limb here and say that besides maybe infancy, my time living in Shanghai represents the period of life when I have changed the most… for the better. Though at times it is hard to express the momentousness of my life-changing experience to others, it is something that I can assure you goes way beyond language acquisition. Please do not hesitate to email me if you have any questions, comments, or concerns about China or study abroad in general! My newfound passion for China and studying abroad makes it so that you will actually be doing me a favor if you email me. I am so confident that if you challenge yourself and take the leap to China for a few months, you will never regret it! 再见！ hide
Andrew Ameter
21st Century City
Ohio State University Columbus – Marketing Major
Hi my name is Andrew Ameter and I'm a junior at Ohio State University. Although my major is marketing, I have a huge interest in both Chinese language and culture. This stemmed from taking international business courses that continually... read more
Hi my name is Andrew Ameter and I'm a junior at Ohio State University. Although my major is marketing, I have a huge interest in both Chinese language and culture. This stemmed from taking international business courses that continually stressed the importance of the Chinese economy in the future. Last summer I studied abroad in Shanghai and it was one of the best experiences of my life. Not only did my language skills increase exponentially, but I gained a unique perspective that I'll carry with me the rest of my life. Now that I'm back in Columbus, Ohio, I miss all the people and experiences I encountered, but I know I have a whole lifetime ahead of me to continue expanding my boundaries. hide
Gian Michael Gozum
21st Century City
University of Memphis – Asian Studies Major
Hey! My name is Gian Gozum, and I took part in the Contemporary Chinese Society and Language Program in the spring of 2011. I am a senior majoring in Asian Studies and International Trade and Economics. I took about five semesters of Mandarin Chinese... read more
Hey! My name is Gian Gozum, and I took part in the Contemporary Chinese Society and Language Program in the spring of 2011. I am a senior majoring in Asian Studies and International Trade and Economics. I took about five semesters of Mandarin Chinese before going to Shanghai. Within just two weeks of living in China, I could already tell that my Chinese had improved. I got used to thinking, listening, and speaking in Chinese. Several moments in my semester confirmed that I had improved. One was during a conversation with a taxi driver. He was taking me all the way to the other end of town, and in that drive we discussed my Filipino heritage, the Chinese populations in the Philippines, the origins of his parents, and last but not least, the NBA Playoffs!
Travelling throughout China was such an amazing experience. Each province was like visiting a different country because of the regional dialects and accents, which make communication even more interesting! The Alliance trip to Yunnan province was phenomenal, where we learned much about the ethnic minorities. During my independent travel, I went to the mountainous Sichuan province with some friends, and we learned a lot about Tibetan culture and ate a lot of spicy food!
My trip to Shanghai ranks in one of my most amazing experiences. I made wonderful friends who I am certain I will see again. I am forever thankful for my opportunity to study in Shanghai the spring of 2011. hide
Alli Jeffers
Intensive Chinese Language
Denison University – Communication Major
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Lin Rui Li
Intensive Chinese Language
Mills College – Economics Major
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my school how important study abroad is and encourage them to increase study abroad financial aid. hide
Richard Wong
Intensive Chinese Language
Amherst College – Music and Chinese Major
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Meaghan Crandell
Intensive Chinese Language
University of Missouri Columbia – East Asian International Studies Major
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Julie Trinh
Intensive Chinese Language
Duquesne University – International Relations Major
你好！My name is Julie Trinh and I am currently a senior at Duquesne University. My journey with studying Mandarin began when I chose International Relations as a second major. After finishing my 100 level of study and having no plans for the following... read more
你好！My name is Julie Trinh and I am currently a senior at Duquesne University. My journey with studying Mandarin began when I chose International Relations as a second major. After finishing my 100 level of study and having no plans for the following summer, I decided that traveling abroad to China would be a great opportunity to put what knowledge I had of Mandarin to the test. Two months of going back and forth with my advisor, getting teacher recommendations and finding the funds for the trip later, I got approved to go to the intensive Chinese program at Fudan University.
After the second week of classes, I realized how intensive an intensive language program is, frequented the late night markets and decided that I didn’t care whether or not I got sick from the street food because it’s totally worth it. Within the first month in Shanghai, I had learned how to master the subway system, felt comfortable enough to chat with taxi drivers and order my meals at restaurants that did not have pictures to accompany each dish. After two months in Shanghai, I had traveled to Beijing and climbed the Great Wall, walked through the Forbidden City and got a feel of how politics influence even the street vendors. I also made great new friends from all over the world and had the time of my life, all the while learning more and more about real Chinese culture.
After coming home from Shanghai I was surprised to discover how much I missed it! I know that it is a cliché statement, but I believe that making the decision to study abroad in Shanghai has changed my life. I want to be able to help others have the same opportunity that I had and I hope that through the Alliance for Global Education I will be able to do just that. hide
Sara Simon
Intensive Chinese Language
Wellesley College – English Major
Hi! I’m a junior studying English at Wellesley College. Before college, I knew next to nothing about Asia. It really wasn’t until I took a volunteer position in Boston’s Chinatown that I became exposed to Chinese language and culture... read more
Hi! I’m a junior studying English at Wellesley College. Before college, I knew next to nothing about Asia. It really wasn’t until I took a volunteer position in Boston’s Chinatown that I became exposed to Chinese language and culture. I began studying Mandarin and immersing myself more in the Chinatown community. I had always planned for a semester abroad studying literature in England. Alas, the Alliance programs in China sounded so fascinating, and the Asia pull just took hold of me!
Studying abroad in Shanghai was the best, most exciting and enriching experience so far in my life. Of course, there were times I missed everything American. Skyping home became a regular part of my week, and I frequented the pizza place on my street probably a little too often. But more than anything, the most interesting part about living in a once so foreign China was realizing how familiar life was to me there. I did a number of weekend trips in and around China, and every time I returned to my apartment in Shanghai, it felt like home. My four months in Shanghai flew by so quickly—too quickly! I cannot wait to get back! hide
Branna Williams
Popular Culture and Social Change
21st Century City
Meredith College – Political Science Major
My name is Branna Williams and I am currently a senior at Meredith College in Raleigh, North Carolina. This spring I will graduate with a double major in Political Science and Chinese Studies. In the summer of 2010, I spent eight fabulous... read more
My name is Branna Williams and I am currently a senior at Meredith College in Raleigh, North Carolina. This spring I will graduate with a double major in Political Science and Chinese Studies. In the summer of 2010, I spent eight fabulous weeks studying with the Alliance in Beijing -- by far, one of the best experiences I have ever had, hands down. Although I had only studied Chinese for a year, I found I was not alone in my ever-diminishing struggle to communicate in China. Some students in our program were nearly fluent, while others had no prior study in the language before their arrival in China. Much to my relief, I was somewhere in the middle and am certain that I learned as much Chinese in one summer as I did in studying Chinese for one year in the U.S.
Upon returning to the U.S., I began to realize what a crucial part the immersion factor plays when learning a language like Chinese. Besides that, I missed China! It did not take me long to decide that I was going to study abroad in China again in spring 2011. This time, I wanted to see what Shanghai had to offer. I was in for a semester of experiencing what it is like to not only study, but actually live a vibrant city, molded by both globalization and tradition.
In addition to greatly advancing in Chinese language proficiency last semester, I had opportunities opened to me that would not have been possible in the U.S. Chatting with your taxi driver in Chinese, hiking the Great Wall (without dozens of tourists), having a picnic with Buddhist monks atop a mountain in Xiahe, and climbing the huge mountains of Tiger Leaping Gorge in southern China are not an option while studying Chinese at your university in the U.S. Aside from these unforgettable events throughout both semesters, I also had the rare opportunity to conduct in depth research about particular areas of interest via the Capstone Projects. After completing one Capstone on the dairy industry and one on the politics of environment, I had developed contacts, laid groundwork for my senior thesis, and attained knowledge that will be an asset to me in future career endeavors. Choosing to study with Alliance was undoubtedly one of the best decisions I have made in enriching my educational and cultural experiences. hide
Daniel Mixa
Popular Culture and Social Change
Intensive Chinese Language
International Business in China
University of Tampa – Business Major
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... read more
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
Read Student Blogs
Read what these students have to say about study abroad with the Alliance in Asia!
Wesley Wander
21st Century City
Rochester Institute of Technology – Molecular Bio-Science and Chinese Major
Paul Chung
21st Century City
Swarthmore College – Economics and Chinese Major
Daniel Gleason
21st Century City
Boston College – Theology and Chinese Major
Sara Simon
21st Century City
Wellesley College – English Major
Valerie Brankovic
Intensive Chinese Language
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – Political Science Major
Thomas Nguyen
Intensive Chinese Language
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign – East Asian Studies and Social Work Major
Loi Ta
Intensive Chinese Language
University of Memphis – Biology Major
Elena Lopez-Berryman
Intensive Chinese Language
George Washington University – Chinese Language and Literature Major
José Santiago Calderón
Intensive Chinese Language
Southwestern University – Economics Major
Allison Jeffers
Intensive Chinese Language
Denison University – Communication Major
Kayden Hoang Bui
Intensive Chinese Language
University of St. Thomas Minnesota – Biology & Mandarin Chinese
Breanna Bang
Intensive Chinese Language
University of Denver – Asian Studies Major
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