How to get a master degree in China

There is so much to say about China and a number of reasons why getting to study there is an experience that’s worth the shot. Not only, you’ll get your education in a country marked by the richness of its culture, philosophy, art and history, but also in a thriving economy which has revolutionized its higher education system during the last decades. As a result, whatever university degree you’re looking to earn in China, you won’t have to worry about the education quality and the recognition for your qualification. The following lines deal with the master degree studies in China. 

Check here our article on bachelor studies in China

Why pursue a master study degree in China?

Over the past few years, China has become a more and more popular destination for international students. The Chinese government has made huge investment in the higher education in the country, which as a result immensely has improved the curriculum quality and propelled Chinese universities’global rankings. 

So, if you’re looking for an international grade education at a more affordable rate than what is applied in Western countries, China is the best place to do so. Moreover, for a master degree, you don’t even need to face the language barrier as many schools and universities in China provide programs in English. 

And to ease up the study and living cost, the Chinese government and some education institutions offer many scholarships and sponsorships available for foreign students in China. Last but not least, since China hosts now many well-respected universities and colleges, earning a master degree in China make you stand out on the job market once you graduate. Convinced yet?

How to study masters in China

Now it’s time you get some important details on the master study programs in China: structure, duration, qualification, costs and so on. 

Usually, it takes 2-3 years to complete a master in China. At the end of their studies, the student has to defend a master’s thesis and pass the state exam. Most of the Chinese universities provide course-based and research-based master’s degree. You can either study in English or in Chinese. Please, check the requirements section to find out the conditions to study in either of these two languages. 

On the matter of qualification and depending on the program, you can earn a Master of Arts (MA), a Master of Science (M.Sc.), a MBA, or a Master of Research (MRes) to name a few. Moreover, master’s degree in the science and technology fields are the most popular among international students in China. 

Master degree in China: requirements

The admission requirements in Chinese universities are defined by the country’s ministry of education and the China Scholarship Council. They state separate requirements apart from the requirements of each university. 

To learn more on the subject, check our article on university application in China

Moreover, the very first condition for applying to a master in China is to have a bachelor’s degree in a related major in which you register for the master study program. 

Other general requirements include: 

  • A student visa 
  • A certificate of clean criminal records. 
  • Copy of previous studies transcripts 
  • At least two recommendation letters from their professors.
  • Proof of a reliable financial status (scholarship or other)
  • Motivation letter
  • Application form 
  • Medical certificate 
  • Photos

Furthermore, applicants may need to take entrance examinations, depending on the university they’re applying to. Those applying for Mandarin or Chinese programs must take the HSK exam beforehand to prove their Chinese proficiency. This will determine whether they’ll be awarded elementary, intermediary or advanced degrees.

Candidates who don’t speak Chinese but want to apply for courses in this language must take language courses for 1 or 2 years prior to their studies. Certain programs also require Chinese studies for a year as part of their requirements. This is the case for subjects like: science, engineering, western medicine, agriculture, economics, law and management. 

Master study in English in China

If you’re wondering if it is possible to study for a master in English in China, then the answer is yes. More and more Chinese universities offer master study programs in English. So, to enroll for a master’s degree in English, you need to provide your TOEFL or IELTS test results. The main subjects you can apply are those related to medicine, engineering, business, computer science and technology. 

The best masters programs in China for international students

Master’s degree in Computer Science and Technology

More than sixty-one universities offer programs in the fields of information technology. The duration of these programs takes about two and a half to three years.

Master’s degree in Engineering

The study programs in China vary in the field of engineering, as they provide more than fourteen specializations in engineering. Fields including electronic engineering/architecture, mechanical engineering, communication engineering, and technology.

Master’s degree in Marketing

Marketing specialization is an important specialization today, playing an important role in the global economy. Many students now go towards studying marketing and delving deeper into it in masters.

Similarly, the duration of the degree ranges from two to three years.

Finally, check out our article on the cost of studying and living in China here!

About Sam

Sam is an editor in chief at Aljawaz, with a decade-plus experience in improving and advising students travelling progams in Asia, North America and EU. Views are his own.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.