University of Bradford Gains Approval for New China Programmes
June 1, 2026New academic courses to begin in China this September
The University of Bradford has received formal approval from the Chinese Ministry of Education to offer two new academic programmes in China. These courses, set to start in September 2026, will be delivered in partnership with Chinese institutions, expanding the university’s international education presence.
Details of the approved programmes
- A postgraduate programme in engineering management, to be offered in collaboration with China University of Petroleum-East China (UPC).
- An undergraduate business and management programme, to be delivered at the Sino-British College in Shanghai.
Both programmes will be taught through a collaborative model involving University of Bradford staff working alongside local academic teams in China. This approach allows students to access Bradford teaching without travelling to the UK.
Strategic significance and future prospects
The approval of these programmes represents a further step in the University of Bradford’s strategy to enhance its global engagement and expand transnational education. The university aims to strengthen existing partnerships and increase access to its courses for students studying overseas.
Wesley Hackett, Associate Director of International Recruitment and Global Partnerships, highlighted the growing demand for UK education delivered within China. He noted that the new programmes will help extend the university’s reach and build sustainable international relationships.
Professor Sherif El-Khamisy, Pro Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement, described the development as an important milestone. He emphasised that such collaborations not only provide educational opportunities but also lay the groundwork for enhanced research, innovation, and academic exchange between the university and its Chinese partners.
Collaborative delivery model
The programmes will follow an established transnational education model, where teaching responsibilities are shared between local Chinese partners and visiting academics from the University of Bradford. This model supports long-term growth and the potential expansion of the courses, benefiting students and fostering deeper institutional collaboration.
These initiatives form part of the university’s broader ambition to build impactful international partnerships and strengthen its presence in key global markets.
