Xinjiang University (XJU)

Xinjiang University was founded in 1924 in Urumqi. Xinjiang University has a unique cultural history due to its location since it is quite historically intertwined with the Arab and Russian speaking world. The Russian and Law School were founded in 1924 and in 1935, they were converted to Xinjiang College. In 1943, the prominent leader of the University Du Zhongyuan was executed on charges of being subversive. The location of Xinjiang University has always been a unique part of China that is quite different to Inner-Mongolia and more Central parts of China.

Notable Campuses & Programs within China

Xinjiang University has three campuses to include: the Main Campus, North Campus, and South Campus. Currently, there are fourteen schools within Xinjiang University that focus on subjects including Science, Engineering, Law, Economics, Management, the Arts, and History. Additionally, there has been a focus on Intellectual Property that was added to the University in 2013. Xinjiang University is experiencing a key period of growth and it will be exciting to see how the school develops with the new government initiatives.

Within the University, there are three Ph.D programs, 46 Master’s programs, and 75 Undergraduate majors. In addition, the University has research institutions in the following areas of study: Arid Ecology, Economics, Math Theory, Demography, Applied Chemistry, Central Asian Culture, Architectural Design, and Altaic Study. These unique offerings give both Chinese and international students a great deal to choose from.

Due to the location of Xinjiang University, there is a very unique ecological landscape that is particularly beneficial for Science majors to take advantage of. The Arid Ecology Program is one of the most unique programs that is able to be offered by Xinjiang University since it is located in one of the drier parts of China. In addition to the many Prehistoric discoveries that have taken place in this part of China, it is a great locale to get hands on experience. In terms of environmental studies, Xinjiang University is a great location to consider for students that are looking to gain field experience while simultaneously studying.

Culturally, it is important to understand Xinjiang University’s unique global position. The reason for this is that the part of China where the University is located has a close association with the Russian language and Arabic language. There are many social issues within this sector of China that make it truly an intercultural experience for students. For students that want to see one of the most fascinating regions of China, Xinjiang University offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience while studying in China.

Final Remarks

China is full of diverse regions; however, few are as diverse and unique as the Western part of China that borders Arabic-speaking and Russian-speaking countries. There is a long and established history of contact between these cultures and China that is particularly interesting due to the revival movement of the Silk Road. For this reason, studying at Xinjiang University is an incredible way to experience a modern society with deep historical traditions. Be sure to consider Xinjiang University in your search of universities in small cities within China.