The School of Journalism and Communication at Renmin University of China (RUC) has launched its first fully English-taught PhD program, enrolling six international doctoral students in its inaugural year.

The students come from Vietnam, Ethiopia, Myanmar, Nepal and Pakistan, marking a new step in the school’s efforts to expand international education and training in communication studies.

The PhD program in International Communication is the first doctoral program at Renmin University to be taught entirely in English. The school said the program is designed to respond to growing global demand for professionals and researchers with a strong understanding of China, as part of national efforts to enhance China’s communication capabilities.

The launch builds on the university's long-standing focus on international journalism and communication education since the very beginning of China’s reform and opening-up.

Advancing the International Talent Development Framework

The School of Journalism and Communication has offered English-taught degree programs for several years, beginning with a master’s program in global communication launched in 2017, under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.

At the master's level, the school enrolled 16 international students in 2025. At the undergraduate level, international enrollment has also continued to grow.

Since 2023, the school has admitted 25 international undergraduate students, 55 master's students and 13 doctoral students. As of 2025, it has 43 international undergraduates, 65 master's students and 17 doctoral students currently enrolled.

The school said it plans to continue expanding its international programs and attracting students from a wider range of countries in the coming years.

Refined Student Support Helps International Students Settle In

01. "Peer Mentorship" Program Helps New International Students Adapt

To help international students adapt more quickly to campus life, the school has launched a peer mentorship program pairing new students with administrative staff and senior international students.

The program offers practical support, including help with settling in, answering day-to-day questions and building early connections on campus. School officials said the initiative is aimed at making the transition smoother for new arrivals and fostering a more supportive learning environment.

02. Hearing from New Students: International Students Share First Impressions

As the new semester begins, newly enrolled international students from around the world shared their experiences and expectations as they start their studies at Renmin University of China.

"Starting a new semester can be overwhelming," said Haji Abdul-Kadir Makame, a 2025 master's student in Journalism and Communication from Tanzania. "But being here at RUC, surrounded by passionate people and a buzzing campus, makes it all feel worth it."

Dao Thi Thu Dung, a 2025 PhD student in International Communication from Vietnam, reflected on her academic journey. "From a rural village in Vietnam to a doctoral classroom at RUC, I have learned that no matter how difficult the path, the pursuit of knowledge always finds a way forward," she said.

Several doctoral students highlighted the school's academic environment and research culture.

"I am thrilled to immerse myself in this world-class academic community and contribute to the field of global communication research," said Mekonnen Zewdu Alemnew, a PhD student from Ethiopia.

Khan Aadil Rehman, from Pakistan, said the university's academic standards stood out. "The rigorous academic environment and vibrant research culture provide a strong foundation for intellectual growth and scholarly contribution."

Students also pointed to the value of cross-cultural exchange on campus.

"I look forward to engaging fully in academic life and embracing the diverse cultural and intellectual experiences the university offers," said Regmi Kushma, a PhD student from Nepal.

"I'm excited about the opportunities ahead and look forward to learning, sharing and achieving great things together," said Khan Ezaz Ali, a PhD student from Pakistan.

03. Innovative Courses Prepare Future Global Communicators

The School of Journalism and Communication has continued to expand and refine its curriculum to support the training of high-level international communication professionals.

One of the key initiatives is a newly developed micro-course package for international students, built around a "14+1+1" structure. The package includes 14 academic lectures, one field-based practice session and one exchange-oriented discussion class.

Courses cover topics such as China's Economy: History, Development and Achievements and Dynamic China: People, Policy and Population, developed in collaboration with the School of Population and Development. Another course, Seeing China with CMG Reporters, is offered in partnership with China Media Group, providing students with direct exposure to professional reporting practices.

School officials said the courses are designed to help international students better understand China through a combination of classroom learning and hands-on experience. While currently serving students in the School of Journalism and Communication, the program is expected to expand to other schools across the university.

Looking ahead, the school said it will continue to develop English-taught programs and strengthen international cooperation. With the launch of its first fully English-taught PhD program, the School of Journalism and Communication aims to further enhance its global profile and contribute to international exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations.

Program Enquiries

Global Communication (PhD Program Taught in English) Consulting:

Ms. He, International Student OfficeEmail: hejingyan@ruc.edu.cn

Ms. Di, School of Journalism and CommunicationEmail: 20240100@ruc.edu.cn

Translator: Cai Xinyue, Yuan Xiaoqian, Cao Yifei

Editor: