Oldest Chinese Universities

China has a long history of higher education, and several universities in the country can trace their origins back to ancient times. Some of the oldest universities in China include:

1. Peking University
2. Fudan University
3. Nankai University.
4. Sun Yat-Sen University
5. Shanghai Jiaotong University

Note: We would like to inform you know that we are authorized to provide Study in China counseling services for each of the universities mentioned in this article at the application stage as well as the period of time starting from being accepted until your arrival in China.

These universities have played significant roles in the development of education, research, and culture in China. Keep in mind that while these institutions have long histories, they have undergone various changes and developments over the years.

Peking University

Peking University (PKU), one of the most prestigious universities in China, has a rich history that dates back to the late Qing Dynasty. Here is a brief overview of Peking University’s history:

• Peking University was founded in 1898 as the Imperial University of Peking during the reign of Emperor Guangxu. The establishment of the university was part of the Hundred Days’ Reform, an attempt to modernize China’s political, economic, and educational systems.
• The initial idea for the university came from the scholar and reformist Kang Youwei, and the institution was established by the statesman and reformer Tan Sitong. The goal was to create a modern, comprehensive university that would combine Chinese and Western educational approaches.
• The university started its operations in 1900, but its early years were marked by political unrest and upheavals. The Boxer Rebellion and the subsequent invasion of foreign powers delayed the university’s development.
• Peking University gradually expanded its academic offerings and developed into a leading institution for higher learning in China. It played a crucial role in fostering intellectual and political movements during the early 20th century.
• During the 1930s and 1940s, due to the Japanese invasion of China, Peking University, along with many other Chinese universities, had to move several times to escape conflict zones.
• In the late 20th century, Peking University, like other Chinese universities, went through a period of reform and opening-up. It embraced a more diverse curriculum and increased collaboration with international institutions.

Today, Peking University is known for its academic excellence and is recognized as one of the top universities in China and the world. It has a strong commitment to research, innovation, and fostering global perspectives.

Fudan University

Fudan University, located in Shanghai, China, has a history that spans over a century. Here is an overview of Fudan University’s history:

• Fudan University traces its roots back to the establishment of Fudan Public School in 1905. The school was founded by the famous Chinese educator Ma Xiangbo, who aimed to create an institution that combined Chinese and Western educational methods. Initially known as Fudan Public School, it went through a series of name changes during its early years.
• In 1917, Fudan Public School was reorganized into Fudan University. During this period, the university expanded its academic offerings and gained a reputation for academic excellence. It became one of the leading institutions of higher learning in China.
• The outbreak of the Second Sino-Japanese War in 1937 and the subsequent turmoil in China led to Fudan University’s relocation several times to escape conflict zones. The university faced challenges during this period, but it managed to survive and maintain its commitment to education.
• In the late 20th century, Fudan University, along with other Chinese institutions, experienced a period of reform and opening-up. The university embraced a more diverse curriculum, increased international collaboration, and encouraged research and innovation.
• In recent decades, Fudan University has continued to grow and thrive. It has become known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and internationalization. Fudan University consistently ranks as one of the top universities in China and has gained recognition globally.

Today, Fudan University is renowned for its comprehensive academic programs, strong research output, and its commitment to fostering a global perspective among its students and faculty. It stands as a key institution in China’s higher education landscape.

Nankai University

Nankai University, located in Tianjin, China, has a history that dates back to the early 20th century. Here is an overview of Nankai University’s history:

• Nankai University was founded in 1919 by the renowned Chinese educator and nationalist, Zhang Boling. The university’s establishment was part of a broader movement in China to modernize education and promote a nationalistic spirit.
• Initially, Nankai University was known as Nankai School, and it started as a secondary school with the goal of providing modern education integrated with traditional Chinese values.
• Over the years, Nankai University expanded its offerings to include higher education. The university gradually developed into a comprehensive institution with a strong emphasis on liberal arts, sciences, and engineering.
• Similar to many Chinese universities during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Nankai University faced challenges and had to relocate to escape conflict zones. During this period, the university moved to several locations to continue its operations.
• Nankai University has consistently been recognized for its academic excellence. It has produced notable alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields, including science, literature, politics, and business.
• In the late 20th century, Nankai University, along with other Chinese universities, experienced a period of reform and opening-up. The university embraced changes in curriculum, increased international collaboration, and focused on research and innovation.
• Today, Nankai University is a prominent institution in China, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. It is known for its strong research output and contributions to various academic disciplines.

Nankai University continues to play a crucial role in Chinese higher education, emphasizing a balanced education that combines traditional values with modern knowledge and skills.

Sun Yat-Sen University

Sun Yat-sen University (SYSU), located in Guangzhou, China, has a history closely tied to the revolutionary activities of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the founding father of the Republic of China. Here is an overview of Sun Yat-sen University’s history:

• Sun Yat-sen University was originally founded in 1924 as Guangdong University, with the support of Dr. Sun Yat-sen himself. It was established as a comprehensive university with a focus on promoting modern education and contributing to the political and social changes occurring in China during that time.
• Dr. Sun Yat-sen, who played a crucial role in the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty and the establishment of the Republic of China, believed in the importance of education as a means to bring about social and political reform. He envisioned the university as a center for modern education and scientific research.
• During the early years, Sun Yat-sen University was closely associated with the Nationalist (Kuomintang) government. It played a role in the nationalist movement, contributing to the educational and political developments of the time.
• Similar to other universities in China, Sun Yat-sen University faced challenges during the Second Sino-Japanese War and had to relocate to escape conflict zones. After the war, the university returned to Guangzhou.
• In the late 20th century, Sun Yat-sen University, along with other Chinese universities, experienced a period of reform and opening-up. The university embraced changes in curriculum, increased international collaboration, and focused on research and innovation.
• Today, Sun Yat-sen University is one of the top universities in China. It has multiple campuses and is known for its comprehensive academic programs, strong research output, and contributions to various fields. The university continues to honor the legacy of Dr. Sun Yat-sen and remains a key institution in the Chinese higher education system.

Shanghai Jiaotong University

Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU), one of China’s top universities, has a history that spans over a century. Here is an overview of Shanghai Jiao Tong University’s history:

• SJTU traces its roots back to Nanyang Public School, which was established in 1896 in Shanghai. It originated as a part of the imperial Chinese government’s efforts to modernize education and promote technical and engineering knowledge.
• Nanyang Public School went through several reorganizations and changes in leadership during its early years. In 1905, it merged with the Government Professional School, and in 1911, it became Shanghai Industrial College.
• In 1921, Shanghai Industrial College was merged with several other institutions, including the Telegraphic Institute, the Mining Administration, and the Railway Administration School. The resulting institution was named Jiao Tong University, which became one of the leading universities in China.
• Like many Chinese universities during the Second Sino-Japanese War, Jiao Tong University faced challenges and had to relocate to escape conflict zones. It moved to various locations during this period.
• In the late 20th century, Jiao Tong University, like other Chinese universities, experienced a period of reform and opening-up. The university embraced changes in curriculum, increased international collaboration, and focused on research and innovation.
• Today, Shanghai Jiao Tong University is recognized as one of the top universities in China and is known for its strong emphasis on engineering, technology, and sciences. It has multiple campuses and has developed into a comprehensive institution offering a wide range of academic programs.
• SJTU has gained international recognition and is particularly well-known for its annual Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), commonly known as the Shanghai Ranking, which ranks universities worldwide based on various criteria, including academic and research performance.

Shanghai Jiao Tong University continues to play a significant role in shaping China’s education landscape and contributing to advancements in science and technology.

If there are any other old Chinese universities that have not been mentioned in this post, you can let us know in the comments section.