Studying in China gives you the opportunity to explore its higher education options. China is home to universities that place highly in current global rankings. For example, Peking University is ranked #14 and Tsinghua University is tied at #17 in the QS World University Rankings 2026. With the country’s wide range of academic institutions, international students can compare programs carefully before deciding where to enroll and which city they want to live in during their studies.
Choosing a subject is also an important part of planning your studies in China. International students should compare program content, the language of instruction, entry requirements, and professional recognition before applying. The following subjects are worth considering as you narrow down your options.
Top Courses to Study in China
1. Medicine
Some universities in China offer undergraduate clinical medicine programs for international students, including programs taught in English. These programs provide medical education and clinical training. Students planning to practice medicine after graduation should confirm the licensing and recognition requirements in the country where they intend to work.
China’s Ministry of Education has published lists of institutions approved to enroll international students in English-taught undergraduate clinical medicine programs. Because approved institutions and enrollment plans can change, applicants should verify the latest university and government information before applying.
Some of the universities where you can study Medicine also place within the top 100 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026 for Medicine. The following institutions appear in the current ranking:
2. Chinese Language
Studying Chinese in China gives you frequent opportunities to practice the language in everyday situations. Online courses and language-learning apps can also be useful, but in-person study can add structured instruction and regular interaction.
Using Chinese outside the classroom can help learners practice what they study and become more familiar with everyday expressions and different communication settings.
University-based Chinese language study can also provide formal instruction and opportunities to learn more about Chinese culture and society. Learning Chinese may help students access academic programs taught in Chinese, in addition to programs taught in English. Examples of universities with Chinese language programs for international students include:
3. Civil Engineering
Civil Engineering focuses on the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the built environment, including buildings, bridges, roads, and water-related infrastructure. China is home to major infrastructure projects, including the Shanghai World Financial Center and the Three Gorges Dam.
With many large-scale infrastructure projects, Civil Engineering is a subject worth considering. In addition to pursuing an academic program, studying in China can give students opportunities to learn about infrastructure development in context. Applicants should compare curricula, languages of instruction, and admission requirements when reviewing Engineering programs.
Examples of universities with Civil Engineering programs or relevant study options include:
4. International Economics and Trade
International Economics and Trade is a field that examines economic principles, international trade, investment, and the ways policies and markets affect cross-border activity.
Students may study topics such as supply and demand, international finance, trade policy, and the movement of goods and services across borders. Programs vary by university, so applicants should review the curriculum and language of instruction carefully.
Examples of universities offering relevant programs include:
5. Mathematics
Mathematics is another subject worth considering in China. At the university level, Mathematics-related programs can develop quantitative reasoning and problem-solving skills.
Mathematics is relevant to fields such as Computer Science, Engineering, Finance, and scientific research. Program structures and languages of instruction vary by institution, so students should review each program before applying.
Examples of universities with Mathematics-related programs include:
We hope that you found this article on subjects to study in China informative and helpful. To learn more about studying abroad, check out the Available Programs for International Students.
