Doing Business in a Changing China: 2026 Summer School

Overview

For summer 2026, Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) offers students a fantastic opportunity to experience living and studying in China. Delivered through a unique collaboration between International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) and the China Studies Department in the School of Humanities and Social Sciences, this two-week summer school programme explores China’s dynamic business culture. Students will gain unique insights into this fascinating country while studying a new topic, exploring a new country and making new friends.

For an English-taught, in-depth introduction to China at a world-renowned university, this programme is an excellent choice.

China’s rapid economic rise and growing global influence have led some to describe the 21^st Century as the “Chinese century”. Now the world’s second-largest economy, China has undergone significant economic and social changes in recent decades as a result of market-oriented reforms and globalisation. It’s role in global affairs is expanding – from geopolitics and AI to climate change, energy security and the challenges emerging from globalisation.

To navigate today’s business environment, it’s essential to understand what’s driving China’s economic and social change and how this is accelerating innovation and technological progress. As such, such an understanding will also help you spot the opportunities created by disruption.

The Doing Business in a Changing China Summer School is an opportunity to develop that understanding by studying at XJTLU, the largest international university in China, situated in Suzhou – one of the world’s fastest growing cities. The programme is co-developed by IBSS, a ‘Triple-Crown’ accredited business school, and the China Studies department, both recognised for world-class research on China and its global impact.

Course Structure

Date: 29 June – 10 July 2026

Delivery: In-person, onsite

Duration: Two weeks

Organisers: International Business School Suzhou (IBSS) & China Studies Department, XJTLU

• Six expert-led lectures on China’s history, economy, business environment, technological developments, and society
• Four introductory Chinese language classes
• Two visits to major cities (Suzhou and Shanghai)
• Three company visits
• A calligraphy workshop
• An Entrepreneurship Business Plan Project: six interactive group sessions culminating in a final business plan presentation

*Please note that the itinerary may be subject to change.

Course Evaluation

Throughout the programme, students will work in groups on a project focused on a theme relevant to doing business in a changing China. Each group will receive coaching during the project sessions and will present their final business plan to a panel of professionals and academics. Students will also receive targeted support on career development, presentation skills, and career opportunities in China.

Award

Students who successfully complete the course and group project will receive a certificate issued jointly by IBSS and the China Studies Department, and will be well placed to access future programmes and courses offered by XJTLU.

Why join our summer school?

• Exposure to real business challenges in China
• Immersion in Chinese culture and language learning
• First-hand experience of business culture in the Yangtze River Delta region
• Unique industry insights through expert teaching and company visits
• Career coaching and employability support

Knowledge and Skills

At the end of the two-week programme, you will have:

• Deepened your understanding of the key features and forces shaping China’s economy and culture, through a practical, business-focused approach
• Developed a strong appreciation of the challenges and opportunities of doing business with Chinese companies and of working and living in China.

Fees

*Each applicant is eligible for only one discount. All discounts, except the Early Bird discount, are available only for applicants who apply before 25 May 2026.

How to Apply

The application and tuition payment deadline for Doing Business in a Changing China: 2026 Summer School is 25 May 2026.

Applications should be submitted via the XJTLU online application system:

1. Click/tap the APPLY NOW.
2. Create an account or log in to your existing account.
3. Complete your application.

Once your application account has successfully been created, enter all the information required in the application form carefully and make sure the information you provide is correct, complete and up to date. Upload the required documents to the corresponding fields.

You may log in to view your application form at any time.

Note:

Following the instructions on the website of Study in China (the official Ministry of Education website), summer or winter camp participants should apply for and use L visa to study in China for short programme’s. Students from certain countries can also enjoy visa free* access.

For more information about such requirements, please visit: https://www.studyinchina.edu.cn/visaAssistant/visaInformation

To apply for an L visa, please visit: https://visaforchina.cn/. If you cannot find your country on the website, please visit the website of the Chinese consulate in your country.

*If China’s visa free policy applies to your nationality, you can take advantage of the policy and come to China without requiring a visa in advance. Please carefully check the duration of the visa-free period and any other stipulations on the visa section of the Chinese Embassy in your country. Note the visa-free period in China cannot be extended after arrival.

Contact Us

For further information and enquiries, please email summer@xjtlu.edu.cn.

For enquires specifically related to accommodation, pre-arrival arrangement and induction, please contact our student engagement team at global@xjtlu.edu.cn.

Useful Resources

Accommodation

Pre-arrival and induction arrangements