Key Takeaways
International relations, communications, education and history programs at Chinese universities, and how to judge which departments actually support foreign students.
Why humanities applicants have more options than they think
Engineering and business attract most international applicants. Humanities and social sciences get less attention, which is exactly why they can offer more individual attention, deeper mentorship, and surprisingly strong career pathways. If you study China, want to teach, work in policy, or build a research career, this field is worth a serious look.
The Disciplines and Where They Sit
- International Relations and Public Policy: Fudan University IPP, Tsinghua Schwarzman Scholars, Tsinghua SAIS dual degree
- Communications and Media: Communication University of China cross-cultural studies
- Education and Linguistics: BLCU, Renmin University programs
- History, Philosophy, Literature: Renmin Chinese Philosophy, Sun Yat-sen Chinese Language and Literature, Nanjing China Studies
- Sociology and Anthropology: Nanjing and Fudan programs
Social Science Degrees in China
Social science programs in China may include international relations, sociology, education, communication and related subjects. Applicants should check the degree level, program language and admission requirements for each university.
French-speaking applicants may search for ‘étudier les sciences sociales en Chine’, which means studying social sciences in China, and the same questions about language of instruction apply.
Joyous Future lists humanities and social science degree programs with their teaching language so that the language question is answered before an application is opened.
Top Picks at a Glance
- Fudan University, Shanghai: International Public Policy master’s (IPP). Strong policy focus with Shanghai exposure.
- Tsinghua University, Beijing: Schwarzman Scholars master’s. A one-year, fully funded global affairs program.
- Tsinghua SAIS Dual Degree: Combines Johns Hopkins SAIS training with Tsinghua.
- Communication University of China, Beijing: Cross-cultural Studies master’s in English.
- Beijing Language and Culture University: Sinology and language programs.
- Renmin University of China: Chinese Philosophy master’s in English.
- Nanjing University: China Studies master’s in English.
- Shanghai International Studies University: China Studies program (CSP) in English.
- Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou: Chinese Language and Literature bachelor’s.
- Peking University: General undergraduate program with strong humanities track.
Why Study Humanities Here
- Access to primary sources, archives, and field sites
- Native-speaking faculty
- Lower cost than Western humanities programs
- China literacy is a career asset in diplomacy, trade, journalism, NGOs
How to Choose
- For policy and global affairs: Fudan IPP, Tsinghua Schwarzman or SAIS
- For media and communication: CUC cross-cultural studies
- For philosophy and thought: Renmin Chinese Philosophy
- For language and Sinology: BLCU, Nanjing China Studies, SISU CSP
- For literature: Sun Yat-sen Chinese Language
Application Tips
- Strong writing samples win. Submit 1 to 2 polished pieces, not a portfolio of ten.
- A focused study plan on China beats generic “I want to understand Chinese culture” essays.
- Letters of recommendation from professors who know your analytical writing are most persuasive.
- HSK requirements vary. Some programs require it; others do not.
Career Pathways
- Government, foreign service, think tanks
- International NGOs and development
- Journalism, media, publishing
- Education, translation, interpretation
- Further academic research (MA to PhD pipeline in China is strong)
Bottom Line
Humanities programs in China offer depth, access, and value. Pick the discipline first, then the program that matches it, then the city that supports your life outside the classroom.
Universities and programs in this guide
University Pages
- Fudan University
- Tsinghua University
- Communication University of China
- Beijing Language and Culture University
- Renmin University of China
- Nanjing University
- Shanghai International Studies University
- Sun Yat-sen University
- Peking University
- Shanghai Jiao Tong University
Program Pages
- International Public Policy (IPP) Master’s Program at Fudan University
- Master of Global Affairs, Schwarzman Scholars at Tsinghua University
- Tsinghua-SAIS Dual Master’s in Global Politics and Economics
- Sinology and Chinese Studies at Beijing Language and Culture University (bachelor’s)
- MA in Chinese Philosophy and Culture (CPC) at Renmin University of China (master’s)
- China Studies Program (CSP) at Shanghai International Studies University (master’s)
Two English-taught options show the range: Renmin University’s MA in Chinese philosophy and SISU’s China Studies program. Check the thesis language requirement before applying.
Related guides
- Language and China studies programs
- Best Chinese universities by experience
- Five mistakes to avoid when choosing a program
- Ten things to know before you arrive
FAQ
Q1: Do I need HSK to study humanities in China?
It depends on the program. Some accept English-only; others require HSK 4 or 5.
Q2: Are Chinese humanities degrees recognized internationally?
Generally yes, especially from well-known universities. Confirm with your home credential body.
Q3: Can I do a PhD in China after an MA here?
Yes, and the pipeline is well-established for international students.
