Global Education
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China Studies Program

The Best Semester's China Studies Program combines life in the urban setting of Xiamen University with trips that highlight the ancient traditions of the country. Passing through endless rice paddies and flying over terraced hills that are farmed in the traditional way, you will see that there is room for modern intervention and traditional practice in a land as big as China. Some of the historic spots you will visit include:

  • The Terra-cotta warriors
  • Tiananmen Square
  • The Great Wall
  • The Forbidden City
  • Ming Tombs
  • Shanghai Museum

VISION
By coming to see others we see ourselves. Living in China provides an unusual place to explore your worldview and cultural presuppositions. The program encourages:

  • Bible study
  • Worship
  • Discussion of integrating life and faith in the Chinese context

QUALIFICATIONS
To gain eligibility you must:

  • Be a junior or senior
  • Maintain a minimum G.P.A. of 2.75
  • Possess a strong commitment to academics and Christianity

CREDITS
Students receive between 15 and 17 credits depending on the optional courses they pursue. In addition to the courses, there is a service component that may be fulfilled by teaching English or working in a children's home. The required courses for the semester program include:

  • Chinese I (3)
  • Chinese History (3)
  • Intercultural Communications (3)
  • Contemporary Society: Public Policy and Economic Development (3)

In addition to these core courses, students choose to concentrate in either Business Studies or Chinese Studies.  Concentration course options include:

  • Chinese II (3)
  • Eastern Philosophy and Religion (3)
  • Business Practicum (3)

Optional courses include:

  • Chinese Arts (1-2)
  • Tai Chi (1-2)

APPLICATION PROCEDURE & DEADLINES  

REGULAR ADMISSION:
All Gordon students applying to the BEST SEMESTER China Studies Program must first submit an online seat application to participate in a Global Education program. Only after you've been approved by the Global Education Office for study abroad, may you proceed with the BEST SEMESTER's online application. Proceed to online seat application.
  • Seat applications for the fall semester must be submitted online by February 15. Interviews with the Global Education Office must be conducted by that same date.
  • Seat applications for spring semester must be submitted online by September 15. Interviews with the Global Education Office must be conducted by by that same date.

After you've been approved by the Global Education Office proceed with the BEST SEMESTER's online application. Deadlines are:

  • Fall Semester: April 1
  • Spring Semester: October 1

EARLY ADMISSION: If you wish to apply early admission to the China Studies Program, then the deadlines are as follows:

  • Seat applications for the fall semester-EARLY ADMISSION must be submitted online by January 15. Interviews with the Global Education Office must be conducted by that same date.
  • Seat applications for spring semester-EARLY ADMISSION must be submitted online by April 15. Interviews with the Global Education Office must be conducted by that same date.

After you've been approved by the Global Education Office, you proceed with the BEST SEMESTER's application. The BEST SEMESTER's early admission deadlines are:

  • Fall Semester:  February 2
  • Spring Semester: May 1

COST

The cost is generally equal to a semester at Gordon and includes:

  • Tuition
  • Fees
  • Room and board
  • Immigration and Visa expenses
  • Round-trip airfare from fixed US gateway to program ($1,200)
  • Necessary travel expenses in China

Not included in regular tuition costs are such items as:

  • Personal expenses
  • Independent travel
  • Books (paid with acceptance deposit)
  • Personal medical expenses, if incurred

CONTACT
For further information please contact:

The Global Education Office
p: 978.867.4399

Apply to participate in Global Education Programs with the Online Seat Application.

After being approved for participation you may apply to the China Studies Program