Shanghai, China

Economy, Business & Society

Study Abroad
Length:
Spring, Fall, Academic Year, Calendar Year
the Shanghai skyline at night
a group of students pose for a photo on the Great Wall of China
a group of students pose for a photo from a boat in a canal in Suzhou
shanghai students walking up the steps toward a mausoleum

At a glance

Housing:

Apartment, Homestay

Credits:

15 to 18 per Semester

Language of Instruction:

Chinese, English

Language Prerequisites:

None

Visa Required:

Yes

About the Program

Program Suspended for Spring 2023 & Fall 2023

Explore Other Programs

As China’s financial powerhouse, Shanghai provides an environment for learning not only about China, but Asia and the world at large. Your classes will be on the campus of Donghua University (DHU). You will take IES Abroad-taught courses in English in subjects such as International Business and Relations, Political Science, Cultural Studies, and more. 

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Benefit from Small Class Sizes

Class sizes are smaller, with fewer than 10 students.

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Take Courses at a Local University

Enroll in English-taught courses alongside Chinese students.

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Shanghai Will Be Your Classroom

Discover the city's Eastern and Western influences.

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Travel Throughout East Asia

You'll go on a week-long field trip to another Asian business hub.

Program Advisor

Headshot of Taylor Tillison.

Taylor Tillison

Once you’ve applied for a program, I’ll be your direct point of contact. From housing to course registration and everything in between, I’m here to help you prepare to study abroad. Once you’re accepted to your program, you’ll find even more detailed information about what you need to know before you depart in your Predeparture Guide. Let’s get started!

📱 800.995.2300 ✉️ study@iesabroad.org

About the Destination

a student poses for a photo while looking out over the Shanghai skyline

Why Shanghai?

Nicknamed the “Magic City,” Shanghai is much more than just the economic and cultural hub of China. It's home to a population approximately three times the size of New York City, which means more to do, more to see, and a city skyline shimmering with possibilities. It’s your time to experience firsthand all that this exciting city has to offer.

Living in the heart of Shanghai, you will learn and communicate in Mandarin and English while studying the diversity and impact that other international cities, including Seoul or Tokyo, have had on Chinese culture. Witness how globalization affects Shanghai and develop a greater understanding of China’s growing impact on the international stage.

Learn More About Shanghai

Get to Know Your New City

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Enjoy Local Festivals

Immerse yourself in Chinese customs and traditions.

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Go on a Huangpu River Night Cruise

Take a boat ride to see the city's architecture in all its glory!

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Visit Yuyuan Garden & City God Temple Bazaar

See the extensive Chinese garden with its classic architecture.

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Visit Shanghai Disneyland

Plan a trip to the famous Disney theme park!

The Student Experience

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Housing

Students sit with their host family with a table full of dumplings and drinks in a Shanghai homestay.
  • Homestay
  • Residence Hall

Homestay

Homestays offer the ideal environment for learning about China and improving your Chinese. While living in a local home may require an initial adjustment period, our Chinese homestay families are eager to get to know you and share their ideas, language, and culture. 

You have a private bedroom and are provided two meals a day by your host family (breakfast and dinner) five days a week while the program is in session 

NOTE: Homestay opportunities are limited. 

Academics