China Launches Mechanism to Align Higher Education with Goals

• China introduces a rapid approval process for doctoral and master’s programs in key fields to meet growing demand in tech and emerging industries
• 24 universities quickly launched degree programs in low-altitude technology to support economic growth
• More universities are granted autonomy in program approvals, leading to new degrees in critical sectors

As part of its strategy to synchronize higher education with the national priorities of the nation, China has set up a new mechanism for the speedy establishment of doctoral and master's degree programs in priority areas.

This reform which was made public by the Ministry of Education is directed towards satisfying the increasing need for skilled personnel in science, technology and new industries.

The newly established ultra-fast layout approval process which has been put into operation by the academic degrees committee of the State Council, China’s Cabinet is aimed at promptly reacting to national requirements. It gives the green light for the instant commencement and fast-track approval of degree programs that cater to the pressing demand for skilled workforce in the main sectors.

The reform is an immediate reaction to the technological revolution and the industrial transformation, where innovations are the main reason why the demand for professionals with top-level skills is growing fast in areas such as artificial intelligence, biopharmaceuticals, and the digital economy.

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A pilot program that was initiated in June validated this innovative method and allowed 24 universities to quickly get approval for low-altitude technology degree programs that would be of help to the economic development of the country.

The mechanism calls for close inter-departmental coordination and aims to select the emerging industries and modern services. At the same time, the number of Chinese universities with the autonomous review status is growing; this policy introduced in 2017 gives more independence to institutions with respect to the approval of new programs.

These days, 38 universities enjoy this status, which leads to the approval of 441 PhD programs and 454 master’s programs in the most critical fields. This change will compel the universities to find their own niche based on strengths and will also prevent the emergence of programs that are similar to each other in terms of quality and content.