IES Abroad Beijing: Contemporary Issues

» General Information

Location:

Beijing, China (Population: 15 million)

Description:

The Contemporary Issues in China program features language instruction at varying levels - including beginning Chinese for students with no prior language experience - combined with a series of English-taught courses on the history, economics, and culture of China.  Courses are structured around six distinctive “blocks”, which are mandatory. The program begins with intensive language training, followed by a two-week Introduction to Chinese History and Civilization seminar. The last three blocks each feature a 300-level course on China as well as a continuation of the Chinese language classes. Each block lasts three and a half weeks and a long weekend is provided at the end of blocks 4 and 5 to allow time to travel independently in China. Each course incorporates extensive field trips and travel directly into the curriculum. This program is an ideal choice for students with little previous exposure to China.

Both this program and the IES Abroad Beijing: Language Intensive program are located on the campus of the Beijing Foreign Studies University (Beijing Waiguoyu Daxue). Popularly known as Bei Wai, this university is one of Beijing's most highly regarded academic institutions.



Terms:

Fall Semester (Fall Quarter), Spring Semester (Winter-Spring Quarters), Full Year

Sponsor:

IES Abroad

Website:

Beijing: Contemporary Issues Program


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Language Requirements

No language prerequisite.

Academic Specialties

Chinese language, Asian Studies, Economics, Sociology, Government, and History.

Course Type

IES program courses.

Additional Information

Center-wide language pledge enhances Chinese language learning.

Housing

Residence hall with a Chinese roommate or home stay.

Program Costs

Estimated Costs:  Fall 2011
For the most updated program cost information, please refer to your program provider’s website.

  • Tuition: $10,950
  • Room & Board:  $4,475
  • SAAF:  $2,355
  • Transportation:  $1,770
  • Books & Supplies: $285
  • Personal Expenses:  $1,855
  • Visa Fees:  $170
  • HTH:  $190
  • Total Estimated Costs:  $22,050

Additional Information:

For more information on billing and financial aid, visit the Financial Considerations section of the website.

Approximate Program Size

  • 70 students
  • Bei Wai University: 4,000 students

Application Requirements

Northwestern students must complete two applications for this program:
  1. An IES Abroad program application, available on the IES web site.
  2. Northwestern University Application for Permission to Study Abroad.

Contact Returnees

Northwestern students may enter this section of the site for a list of students who participated in this program.