The changes of higher education in China since 1949

This study overviews the changes, development and challenges of higher education in China in the past six decades. Higher education in China has witnessed the social political changes since the Japanese Invasion between 1938 and 1945. It also survived the Civil War between the Communists and Nationalists (1945-1949). It was influenced strongly by the Russians in the early 50s, endured the Cultural Revolution between 1966-1976. After the death of Mao, Deng has adapted a more pragmatic outlook and Chinese universities opened its door once again to the public, not just the elite Communists cadres. Today, High Education in China is a major driving force for the economy. It is continuously growing, changing and developing and has played a significant part in economic growth, scientific progress and social development in the country. This study examined China’s historical education system which is based on legalist and Confucian ideals and the teaching of Confucius has shaped the overall Chinese mindset for the past 2500 years. It also highlights the new trends since the late 1980s, China began to develop a Western oriented university model and tremendous economic development in China has stimulated reforms in higher education that has resulted in remarkable changes. It concludes with China’s higher education impact on global higher education.