Bradford University Partnership Enrols 138 Students in China

New Joint College of Advanced Manufacturing Opens in Jiangsu Province

The University of Bradford has expanded its international presence with the enrolment of 138 students at the Joint College of Advanced Manufacturing, a collaborative initiative with Yangzhou University in China. This new college, located in Jiangsu Province, offers dual-award degrees and has received formal approval from China’s Ministry of Education.

Details of the Partnership

The Joint College of Advanced Manufacturing aims to combine British academic expertise with Chinese industrial development. It focuses on preparing students for leadership roles in advanced manufacturing through a curriculum that integrates world-class teaching and cross-cultural exchange.

The partnership was officially launched in June 2025. In late September, a delegation from Bradford visited Yangzhou to mark the opening of the college and the unveiling of several new facilities, including:

• The Joint College of Advanced Manufacturing
• The Faculty and Student Service Centre
• The Cross-Cultural Communication Centre

During the visit, student representatives received Yangzhou University school badges alongside University of Bradford ID cards, reflecting the collaborative nature of the initiative.

Statements from University Representatives

Professor Shirley Congdon, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bradford, highlighted the partnership as part of the university’s wider strategy to increase access to education globally. She noted that the collaboration demonstrates the university’s commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education internationally.

Claire Pryke, Associate Director for Outreach, Recruitment and Admissions, described the student enrolment figures as a sign of global confidence in Bradford’s academic approach.

Yangzhou University President Liu Qiaoquan commented that the student intake reflects the strength and potential of educational collaboration between the UK and China.

Wider Context

This partnership is an example of efforts to widen access to higher education and foster international cooperation in academic and industrial fields. The dual-award degrees offered through the Joint College provide students with qualifications recognised in both China and the UK.