The Program

Students take classes at the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES) at its Beijing Center, located on the campus of Beijing Foreign Studies University (Beijing Waiguoyu Daxue). Popularly known as Bei Wai, this university is one of Beijing's most highly regarded academic institutions. Skidmore’s Beijing Program is a field-centered, interdisciplinary study abroad program with the goal of immersing students in the Chinese culture. The program goes beyond the traditional classroom model by emphasizing the creative integration of field-based and classroom learning. Students will investigate and learn about real Chinese lives by conducting directed field-research projects. Participants will learn field study skills and methods through a specially designed course for students of any academic discipline or major. Numerous field study options are built into other content courses, as well.

The program is intended for students who have completed one or more years of Mandarin language study at the college level or the equivalent. Participants enroll in four courses during the semester: one intensive language course, two content courses taught in English, and the field studies course. The Chinese language courses will be taught at three levels from early intermediate to advanced. Content courses taught in English in subject areas such as Art, Economics, Government, History and Anthropology; and the field studies course that will serve as the base for each participant’s independent research project. The independent research project is directed by the field studies course professor. Students choose their own topic of interest and conduct related field work. A Chinese student who will serve as a peer advisor will be assigned to each participant to assist with gathering information and conducting interviews. Each student will, nonetheless, be expected to usehis or her knowledge of the Mandarin language and Chinese culture to work as independently as possible.

The Program Center

The Skidmore in Beijing program center is situated at the Beijing Center of the Institute for the International Education of Students (IES), located on the campus of Beijing Foreign Studies University (Beijing Waiguoyu Daxue, or “Bei Wai”). In addition to the services provided by the IES staff, students may take advantage of Bei Wai’s cultural events and campus facilities.

Program Dates

Skidmore in Beijing is a fall semester program. The semester will begin in late August and run through mid-December.

• Beijing - the City
• Program Description and Dates
• Courses and Credits
• Field Study
• Orientation and Cultural Activities
• Housing
• Requirements and Application
• Cost
• Welcome to Beijing