Several top universities in China plan to expand undergraduate enrollment to address “national strategic needs” and develop talent in artificial intelligence (AI) and other key fields.
In February, Chinese universities introduced AI courses inspired by DeepSeek, a domestic AI startup that has gained widespread attention.
DeepSeek has developed AI models comparable to the most advanced in the United States but at a fraction of the cost, an achievement described as a “Sputnik moment” for China.
Analysts believe DeepSeek’s success highlights Beijing’s efforts to build a strong homegrown STEM talent pool. They also point to recent U.S. restrictions on Chinese student visas as a factor that has helped China advance in AI.
Peking University announced on Saturday that it will add 150 undergraduate spots in 2025 to strengthen “national strategic importance” disciplines, fundamental fields, and “emerging frontier fields.”
These areas mainly include information science and technology, engineering, and clinical medicine.
Renmin University also plans to add more than 100 undergraduate seats in AI and related fields to boost innovation.
It stated that this expansion is “closely linked” to China’s broader goal of becoming a “powerful education country” and nurturing talent for the digital era.
Shanghai Jiao Tong University will increase enrollment by 150 spots, focusing on “cutting-edge technologies” and emerging industries that are “urgently needed.” The key fields include AI, integrated circuits, biomedicine, healthcare, and new energy.
In January, China introduced its first national action plan to build a “strong education nation” by 2035. The plan aims to coordinate education development, improve innovation efficiency, and contribute to national strength.
Additionally, in December, education authorities announced that AI education would be introduced in primary and secondary schools. This initiative seeks to foster creativity, scientific curiosity, and digital skills among young students.
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