Do you want a master’s degree that will send you abroad for at least a year… to China? China, a growing economic power, international trader and leader in high technology, has made great strides in recent decades, especially in terms of research, higher education and innovation. Are you interested? Read on to discover seven impressive reasons to work and study for a master’s degree in China.
1. Gain first-hand experience in a rising global power
China, one of the most rapidly developing countries in the world, is an ideal place to start or enhance your career. If you choose a master’s degree that incorporates work experience, you will have the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of working in China, immersing yourself in Chinese culture and business practices. There are universities that offer the opportunity to pursue paid teaching jobs in China, while earning a master’s degree from an accredited university in the United States. Those who choose the international business track of the program may also choose to complete business internships.
2. Demonstrate that you are prepared for global work
The knowledge acquired by living, working and studying the master’s degree in China will be an important talking point in job interviews, internationalizing your resume. If you focus on cases in which you have overcome cultural or linguistic barriers and have solved all kinds of challenges, you will quickly differentiate yourself from other candidates. Even when answering the most common job interview questions, you will have new perspectives to offer, showing an understanding of this important market and an ability to adapt to new cultures and environments.
3. Learn Mandarin
Knowledge of Mandarin, one of the most spoken languages in the world, could open many doors in your future career. Whether you intend to work in China, join an international company that has Chinese partnerships and understands the market, or work in non-profit organizations or on university campuses, knowing how to speak Mandarin will make you a very attractive hire. You do not need to speak the language before studying the master’s degree in China; you can learn it once you arrive.
4. Living in a Chinese megacity
Home to 15 of the world’s “megacities” (population over 10 million), China is full of thriving and dynamic urban centers. The best known, Beijing and Shanghai, have been celebrated among the best student cities in the world, but there are many other great Chinese cities to choose from, such as Hangzhou, Kunming or Xiamen. Although these cities have a large population, a mild climate and strong international ties in common, each offers a different experience. Hangzhou, for example, is known for its beautiful lake, Kunming for its diverse ethnic groups and cultures, while Xiamen is a historic port, and Shanghai is famous for its iconic skyline and large expat population.
5. Marvel at 5,000 years of culture and history up close
This is your chance to humble yourself before the 17m-high Buddha statues at Longmen Grottoes or discover the beautiful walls and watchtowers of the Great Wall of China… Take it.
6. Take low-cost flights during the Chinese New Year holidays… and any time you can!
It’s your chance to explore South Korea, Singapore, Japan, Mongolia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines…
There is no more to say.
7. Build a network of contacts in China and elsewhere
Whatever your situation, whether you want to work in an NGO or a career in the financial sector, creating a solid network of contacts around the world will help you access more opportunities. Studying abroad, in China, for a long period of time is an opportunity to do so, as you will study and work alongside Chinese citizens and citizens from around the world.
If you’re looking for a slightly more unusual university experience, a boost to your CV and personal experience in one of the most important economies of the next century, then studying a master’s degree in China may be for you.
