China and the World Economy

There are three distinct elements in the educational approach of the China minor. Firstly, every attempt has been made to deliver an objective view of the growth of China. This entails that the staff will bring in both Western as well as Chinese perspectives on the topic. Secondly, the theoretical part of minor (3 modules of each 5 ECTS) will explain China from historical, political and sustainability perspectives. And finally, the Research Project (10 ECTS) and Student Reflection (5 ECTS) will reflect the ‘practical’ part of the course – i.e. applying theory to actual Chinese case-studies.

The subjects taught in the China and World Economy minor are:

You will also learn how to collaborate on a project with each other and the students from Shanghai Institute of Technology. First in a hybrid setting and then in-person during the study trip to China. This project will also offer the opportunity to work with a client company/organisation in a real-world professional setting.

We facilitate a study-trip to China during the Autumn exam weeks. The trip last approximately 2 weeks, and the goal is to explore the city of Shanghai first-hand, visit our partner university campus – The Shanghai University of Technology, and continue working on the research project together with the SIT students. The research project begins online in September and is supported by the visit to Shanghai for further collaboration over 2 weeks. During the trip, the students also visit other towns of Shanghai outside of the city, visit companies in the region, as well as indulge in the touristic offerings of the city. The trip is partly financed by the student, and partly by Fontys. All travel, visa, accommodation, and activities in Shanghai are organized by Fontys & the partner university.

This type of working relationship with a Chinese university for the research project is unique in the Netherlands.

Applying for the minor China and the World Economy can be a strategic decision for several reasons, esspecially considering the dynamic and influential role China plays in today's global economic affairs. China is the world's second-largest economy and a major player in international trade and investment. Specific knowledge of China's economy and business practices can open up a wide range of career opportunities in multinational corporations, non-governmental organizations, and governmental agencies that engage with China. It can also benefit entrepreneurs looking to tap into Chinese markets or collaborate with Chinese companies.