The Allure of Studying in China

In an era where global job market competition is fierce, students are constantly seeking ways to distinguish themselves. China, with its blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge technology, presents a unique proposition. But what exactly makes China such an attractive destination for higher education?

Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU), located a short train ride from Shanghai, offers a compelling case study. Here, students can pursue master’s degrees in English, receiving a UK degree from the University of Liverpool. According to alumni and current students, choosing XJTLU has been instrumental in their career success.

Case Study: Ferdian Setyawan and Understanding the Chinese Market

For Ferdian Setyawan, a mergers and acquisitions analyst from Jakarta, Indonesia, China was the obvious choice for his master’s degree. As he puts it, “It is undeniable that China is one of the biggest growing economies. Among major global economies, understanding China requires more exposure to its institutions and people who participate in its economy.”

Setyawan, a 2021 graduate of XJTLU with a MSc in Financial Computing, now works at PT Ina Sekuritas Indonesia, a company with ties to both the Salim Group (an Indonesian conglomerate) and SMBC Nikko securities Inc. in Japan. His time in China provided him with invaluable insights into the Chinese business world. Setyawan stated he “wanted to understand China’s dynamics – how business is conducted in China, what professional and cultural requirements are expected there, and how both young and established professionals in China work.”

One of his initial concerns was the language barrier. “Learning Mandarin might have been challenging for me without spending notable time in China,” he admits. “Though, enrolling in a university in China that offers courses in English allows me to gain both academic and valuable cultural insights, so I chose XJTLU.”

His experience has had a tangible impact on his current role.”I learned that establishing strong personal connections is crucial before discussing business or technical matters in China,” Setyawan explains. “In my current role, I often engage in conversations with cross-border clients, including financial professionals from the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong. Understanding their expectations and the qualities they value in counterparts has helped me make a good impression and ensure that projects run smoothly.”

For U.S. readers, this highlights the importance of cultural intelligence in international business. Just as understanding the nuances of Wall Street is crucial for success in the American financial sector, grasping Chinese business etiquette is essential for anyone working with chinese companies. Imagine, for example, a U.S. firm attempting to negotiate a deal with a Chinese counterpart without understanding the concept of “guanxi” (relationships).The deal could easily fall apart due to a lack of trust and rapport.

Setyawan believes studying abroad is particularly crucial for Indonesian students. “As Indonesia continues to grow economically, attracting investments and building cross-border partnerships becomes crucial,” he says.”Understanding the strategic interests and business cultures of countries like China, the US, and Japan along with what other countries seek in Indonesia can help to attract more investments and develop high-skilled sectors.” This perspective resonates globally, including for American students seeking to contribute to the U.S.’s economic competitiveness.

He emphasizes the role of globally-minded professionals in helping Indonesia become more than just a resource-rich nation. “They can help Indonesia become a competitive global player, not merely being seen as a resource-rich nation or a target market,” Setyawan concludes. The same principle applies to the U.S., where a workforce with international experience is vital for maintaining its position as a global leader in innovation and trade.

Case Study: Michael Fortune and the Tech Sector

Michael Fortune from Bandung, Indonesia, faced a crucial decision during his fourth year in the BEng in Mechatronics and Robotic Systems program at XJTLU.He was torn between entering the mechatronics field or pursuing a master’s degree in data science. He also aspired to work in China.

“It had always been a dream of mine to find a job here,” he says.

An XJTLU professor advised him that “International students with a postgraduate degree are more likely to be employed in China.If you’re drawn to a new path, a master’s degree could open doors.”

Fortune realized that a master’s degree would give him a considerable advantage, particularly in China’s booming tech industry. “Every major company, especially in the tech industry, needs data science graduates,” he says. “I think data science is a great career choice for the future.”

A scholarship made his decision easier. His academic achievements earned him an XJTLU Entry scholarship, reducing his tuition fees by 50% per year.

Fortune says studying for a master’s degree has been both challenging and rewarding,stating “it has pushed me to think in new ways and adapt to a rapidly evolving field. Every challenge I face helps me grow, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me.”

For American students, Fortune’s story underscores the demand for data science skills. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information research science occupations is projected to grow 23% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. A master’s degree, especially one earned in a contry at the forefront of technological innovation like China, can considerably enhance career prospects.

China’s Evolving Education Landscape: Opportunities and challenges

china’s investment in higher education has been substantial. On January 20, 2025, China Daily reported that China had added 1,673 undergraduate programs deemed “urgently needed for national strategies” and removed 1,670 programs. This reflects a strategic effort to align education with national priorities, particularly in areas like technology and engineering. This also showcases the dynamic nature of the Chinese educational system, constantly adapting to the needs of its economy.

However, this rapid growth also presents challenges. Some argue that the focus on STEM fields may come at the expense of the humanities and social sciences. Others raise concerns about academic freedom and the potential for government influence in curriculum growth. These are important considerations for any student considering studying in China.

For American students, understanding these nuances is crucial. Choosing a program that aligns with their career goals while also providing a well-rounded education is essential. It also means researching the university’s policies on academic freedom and engaging with current students and alumni to get a firsthand perspective.

Making the Decision: Is Studying in China Right for You?

Studying in China offers unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth. The experience can provide insights into a culture and economy that are shaping the 21st century. However, it’s essential to weigh the benefits against the challenges and to conduct thorough research before making a decision.

Here are some key questions to consider:

• What are your career goals, and how can studying in China help you achieve them?
• Are you prepared for the cultural differences and potential language barrier?
• Have you researched the university’s academic reputation and policies?
• Have you spoken with current students or alumni about their experiences?

By carefully considering these questions, American students can make informed decisions about whether studying in China is the right path for them.