Foreign students from all over the world are choosing to come to China to participate in a Master’s program called Contemporary China Studies program (CCSP) to gain a deeper understanding of the country.

In the library of Renmin University of China, 18 foreign students in one of the program’s classes look just as focused as the Chinese students around them, and they struggle with papers, exams and group discussions together. They have intense motivation to explore various aspects of contemporary China, economy, politics, law, society and foreign policies.

One of the professors of the program said, “They come with great curiosity.”

Contemporary China Studies program (CCSP) is the first English program at Renmin University of China. It offers overseas students not yet proficient in the Chinese language the opportunity to study Chinese governance and foreign relations.

Students’ diverse backgrounds make the academic environment rigorous. Around 100 students from over 50 countries have joined the program since it initiated in 2006.

An Austrian boy called Stephen, who has lived in China for over seven years, said he chose this program because he still feels a lack of deeper understanding of China.

After two years’ study, Stephen gained more than just knowledge. Professional research methodology training also shaped his mind.

“When we discuss in class, is it fair to make a plain judgment for China’s current system based on our limited recognition? Conditions of these countries are so different, for example, a province in China is much bigger than the whole country of Austria,” he added.

Cui Shoujun, the managing professor of this program, said CCSP aims to cultivate outstanding experts and scholars on China issues.

“We gathered a group of excellent teachers from several majors, and all the courses of the program are taught in English to ensure students from more countries can participate.”