Beijing Normal University
Educating futures, inspiring minds, globally.
📍 Beijing, China 🇨🇳
🏆 #14 in China · QS World #247 · THE World #134 · ARWU #101
Quick Facts about Beijing Normal University
- Type: Public
- Students: 23,800
- International: 7%
- Campus: Urban
- Tuition: $3,000 – $5,400/year
- Language: Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Russian, Spanish
- Intakes: Fall, Spring
About Beijing Normal University
Academics
BNU boasts 3 faculties, 29 schools, 8 research institutes, and 5 academies, with particular strengths in education, psychology, environmental science, geography, and Chinese language and literature. The university emphasizes a research-driven approach and fosters interdisciplinary learning, integrating rigorous academic study with innovative, problem-based methods. Notable programs include teacher education and cognitive neuroscience, with emerging interdisciplinary initiatives combining artificial intelligence and life sciences.
International Students
The International Students Office (ISO) at BNU provides comprehensive support services for international students, including visa assistance, student activities, and daily management. BNU offers a variety of English-taught programs at the master's and doctoral levels, particularly within the Faculty of Education, covering fields such as Education, Economics, Environmental Science, Business Administration, and Public Administration. The university hosts around 2,100 long-term international students from over 30 countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive environment. International student organizations, such as the International Student Volunteer Group and various country-specific student unions, facilitate cultural integration and community building.
Campus & Location
Located in Beijing's Haidian District, BNU's main campus offers a vibrant academic community with libraries, sports facilities, and living amenities including supermarkets. Beijing, as the capital city, provides a rich cultural experience with attractions like the Great Wall, numerous historical sites, and diverse culinary options. The campus is well-connected by public transportation, including bus and metro lines, making it easy to navigate the city. On-campus accommodation is available in several international student dorms, with options for single or double rooms.
Career Outcomes
Beijing Normal University graduates are highly sought after, with the university consistently ranking well in graduate employability. In 2022, BNU reported a graduate employment rate of 95.6 percent, indicating strong career prospects for its students. The university provides career services, including an online career assessment system, to help students with career guidance and development. BNU also fosters industry connections and entrepreneurial initiatives, with support for startup competitions and alumni networks.
Information for International Students at Beijing Normal University
Beijing Normal University in Beijing, China welcomes international students, with 7% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 7% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available (~$1650/month)
- Teaching languages: Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Russian, Spanish
Admissions Requirements for Beijing Normal University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Beijing Normal University:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- GPA minimum: 2.5
- Application fee: $500
- Selectivity: Selective (20-40%)
- Application deadline: March 15
Programs at Beijing Normal University (31 programs)
Beijing Normal University offers 31 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (15)
- Mathematics and Applied Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
Students gain a strong foundation in pure and applied mathematics, including calculus, algebra, and numerical analysis, preparing them for advanced studies or careers in various quantitative fields.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Actuary, Financial Analyst, Researcher - Chinese Language and Literature (BA) — 48 months · Chinese
This program focuses on the study of classical and modern Chinese language, literature, and culture, developing students' critical thinking and communication skills.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Teacher, Editor, Journalist, Cultural Administrator - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
This program covers fundamental principles of physics, from classical mechanics to quantum theory, fostering analytical and problem-solving skills essential for scientific research and technological innovation.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Engineer, Researcher, Educator - Education (BA) — 48 months · Chinese
This program prepares future educators with a comprehensive understanding of educational theories, pedagogies, and practices, focusing on curriculum development and teaching methodologies.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: Teacher, Educational Administrator, Curriculum Developer, Education Policy Analyst - Psychology (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese
This program introduces students to the scientific study of mind and behavior, covering areas such as cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, and social psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychologist (with further study), Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher - Journalism (BA) — 48 months · Chinese · $26,000/yr
This program trains students in news gathering, reporting, writing, and multimedia production, emphasizing ethical practices and critical analysis in media.
Field: Journalism
Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist - Computer Science and Technology (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
Students learn core concepts of computer science, including programming, data structures, algorithms, and artificial intelligence, preparing them for careers in software development and IT.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Network Administrator, IT Consultant - Environmental Science (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
This program integrates biology, chemistry, and geology to address environmental issues, focusing on sustainable development, pollution control, and ecological conservation.
Field: Environmental Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Consultant, Conservation Scientist, Policy Analyst, Researcher - History (BA) — 48 months · Chinese · $26,000/yr
This program offers a comprehensive study of Chinese and world history, developing critical thinking and research skills through analysis of historical events and sources.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator - Geography (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · $26,000/yr · STEM
This program examines the Earth's physical and human landscapes, integrating spatial analysis, environmental science, and social studies.
Field: Geography
Career outcomes: Geographer, Urban Planner, Environmental Analyst, Cartographer - Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · Chinese · STEM
Students explore the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, gaining hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and chemical analysis.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Materials Scientist, Pharmacist, Environmental Scientist - Philosophy (BA) — 48 months · Chinese · $26,000/yr
Students engage with major philosophical traditions, ethical theories, and logical reasoning, developing critical and analytical thinking skills.
Field: Philosophy
Career outcomes: Philosopher, Ethicist, Writer, Policy Analyst - Fine Arts (BA) — 48 months · Chinese · $30,000/yr
Students develop artistic skills and critical understanding in various art forms, including painting, sculpture, and design, fostering creativity and cultural awareness.
Field: Fine Arts
Career outcomes: Artist, Art Educator, Gallery Curator, Graphic Designer - Economics (BA) — 48 months · Chinese
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, principles, and policies, analyzing market behavior, resource allocation, and global economic trends.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Market Researcher, Policy Advisor - Law (BA) — 48 months · Chinese
This program provides a solid foundation in legal principles, theories, and practices, covering various branches of law such as civil law, criminal law, and constitutional law.
Field: Law
Career outcomes: Lawyer, Judge, Legal Consultant, Public Prosecutor
Master Programs (7)
- Applied Statistics (MSc) — 24 months · Chinese · $30,000/yr · STEM
Students acquire advanced statistical knowledge and computational skills for data analysis, modeling, and inference, applicable across various scientific and business domains.
Field: Statistics
Career outcomes: Statistician, Data Scientist, Quantitative Analyst, Market Researcher - International Business (MBA) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr
The MBA program provides a global perspective on business management, covering finance, marketing, strategy, and operations in an international context.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Consultant, International Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, Entrepreneur - Public Administration (MA) — 24 months · Chinese · $30,000/yr
This program prepares students for leadership roles in public service, focusing on policy analysis, public management, and governance.
Field: Public Administration
Career outcomes: Public Administrator, Policy Analyst, Government Official, NGO Manager - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · Chinese · STEM
This program provides in-depth knowledge and research opportunities in advanced computer science topics, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Researcher, Data Scientist, IT Project Manager - Master of Science in Psychology (MSc) — 24 months · Chinese
This program provides advanced training in psychological theories, research methodologies, and specialized areas such as clinical psychology, cognitive neuroscience, and social psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Clinical Psychologist, Counseling Psychologist, Researcher, University Lecturer - Master of Education (M.Ed.) (MEd) — 24 months · Chinese
This program offers advanced study in educational theory, research methods, and specialized areas such as educational leadership, curriculum design, and educational technology.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Administrator, Curriculum Specialist, Educational Researcher, University Lecturer - Master of Arts in Chinese Language and Literature (MA) — 24 months · Chinese
This program offers advanced study and research in classical and modern Chinese literature, linguistics, and cultural studies, fostering expertise in the field.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Lecturer, Researcher, Editor, Cultural Specialist
PhD Programs (9)
- Theoretical Physics (PhD) — 36 months · English · $35,000/yr · STEM
This doctoral program involves advanced research in theoretical physics, focusing on areas such as quantum field theory, condensed matter physics, or cosmology.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Postdoctoral Researcher, Quantitative Analyst - Curriculum and Teaching Methodology (PhD) — 36 months · Chinese · $35,000/yr
This program focuses on advanced research in curriculum design, instructional strategies, and educational assessment, contributing to the improvement of teaching and learning.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Policy Analyst, Curriculum Specialist, Researcher - Cognitive Neuroscience (PhD) — 36 months · English · $35,000/yr · STEM
Students conduct cutting-edge research on the neural basis of cognitive processes, utilizing advanced neuroimaging and experimental techniques.
Field: Neuroscience
Career outcomes: Neuroscientist, University Professor, Medical Researcher, Pharmaceutical Researcher - PhD in Mathematics (PhD) — 36 months · Chinese · STEM
This program offers rigorous training in advanced mathematical concepts and research methodologies, enabling students to conduct original research in various areas of pure and applied mathematics.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Quantitative Analyst, Data Scientist - PhD in Chinese Language and Literature (PhD) — 36 months · Chinese
This program provides an opportunity for in-depth research and scholarly contributions to the fields of Chinese language, literature, and cultural studies.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: University Professor, Researcher, Writer, Cultural Critic - PhD in Education (PhD) — 36 months · Chinese
This doctoral program focuses on advanced research in educational theory, policy, and practice, preparing scholars to contribute original knowledge to the field of education.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Researcher, Education Policy Maker, Consultant - PhD in Computer Science and Technology (PhD) — 36 months · Chinese · STEM
This program focuses on cutting-edge research in computer science, including artificial intelligence, big data, and advanced algorithms, preparing students for leadership roles in academia and industry.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Chief Technology Officer, AI Engineer - PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 36 months · Chinese
This program offers advanced research training in various areas of psychology, enabling students to conduct independent research and contribute to psychological science.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Psychologist, Clinical Psychologist, Consultant - PhD in Physics (PhD) — 36 months · Chinese · STEM
This program prepares students for advanced research careers in physics, focusing on theoretical and experimental investigations across various subfields.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Industrial Researcher, Engineer
Scholarships & Tuition at Beijing Normal University
Annual tuition for international students: $3,000 – $5,400/year
✅ Beijing Normal University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Beijing Normal University
- National Ranking: #14 in China
- QS World University Ranking: #247
- Times Higher Education (THE): #134
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #101
- Ranking tier: Top 500
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Beijing Normal University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Urban
- Average class size: 15
- Housing cost: ~$1650/month
Key Highlights
- Prestigious teacher education
- Top-ranked Chinese university
- Strong in foundational disciplines
- Comprehensive research-intensive environment
- Diverse international student body
- Located in Beijing's Haidian District
Accreditation
- Ministry of Education of The People's Republic of China
Fields of Study at Beijing Normal University
- Education
- Psychology
- Literature
- History
- Geography
Notable Alumni
- Mo Yan
- Liu Xiaobo
- Timothy Geithner
- Kirsten Gillibrand
- Wang Huning
Frequently Asked Questions about Beijing Normal University
What is Beijing Normal University?
Beijing Normal University is a public university located in Beijing, China. It has approximately 23,800 students, with 7% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Beijing Normal University?
Tuition fees at Beijing Normal University for international students range from $3,000 – $5,400/year. Student housing costs approximately $1650/month. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Beijing Normal University?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $500. Selectivity: Selective (20-40%). Application deadline: March 15.
What language are courses taught in at Beijing Normal University?
Courses at Beijing Normal University are taught in Chinese and English and Japanese and Korean and French and German and Russian and Spanish. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does Beijing Normal University offer?
Beijing Normal University offers 31 programs: 15 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 9 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Beijing Normal University ranked?
#14 in China · QS World #247 · THE World #134 · ARWU #101.
Does Beijing Normal University offer scholarships?
Yes, Beijing Normal University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Beijing Normal University provide visa support?
Yes, Beijing Normal University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
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