Study Abroad | Semester in Shanghai

A family walks down a tree lined path in Shanghai

A classic Chinese gated entrance in Shanghai

TEAN has joined together with one of the most prestigious universities in China, Fudan University, and a leading Mandarin instruction program from the University of Virginia to offer students an incredibly comprehensive semester abroad. The Semester in Shanghai offers a challenging, yet supportive environment with more than 120 courses available in English that cover a variety of subjects, from business to liberal arts, in addition to studying Mandarin – the most spoken language in the world. Participants are housed in our premier accommodation, featuring fully-furnished apartments with wireless internet, and room with an English-speaking local Fudan University student.

Are you a Chinese student currently enrolled at a U.S. university? You may want to consider the TEAN program at Fudan University.

Snapshot

Semester Program

August - January
February - June

Application Deadlines:
Spring - Nov 15
Fall - May 15

2.75 GPA to Apply

Explore Courses

Traditional campus
Urban location

Off-Campus Apartments
On-campus International Student Dormitory

Overview

Benefit from networking with China’s future leaders as you enroll in Fudan University, ranked third in China and number one in Shanghai

Study Mandarin with language instruction by the prestigious University of Virginia (UVA) designed for all skill levels. Students will receive credit for the semester from both Fudan University and UVA

Take advantage of a unique academic structure where you can study at one of the country’s top universities, and be integrated into classes with local Chinese and other international students

Stay on track for graduation - choose from more than 120 courses taught in English for a full-time class load that will transfer to your degree

Live with Chinese students and other TEAN students in our high quality, off-campus apartments for an even more integrated experience

Experience the vibrant lifestyle of China’s most dynamic city, Shanghai

Take advantage of TEAN’s comprehensive five-day Orientation Program in Shanghai, including a Chinese cooking class, cultural activities and orientation sessions will leave you feeling confident to jump into your semester in China

Appreciate access to TEAN’s Shanghai Resident Director and other in-country staff for continued support throughout the semester

Program Details

Orientation

A little nervous about a semester abroad in another language and culture? That’s only natural but our exclusive orientation based in Shanghai will ease that transition. Our five-day Orientation Program includes a mix of intensive academic sessions and cultural events, including a Chinese cooking class, along with modern hotel accommodation only minutes away from some of Shanghai’s top attractions.

TEAN’s China staff will introduce you to the old and new of Shanghai – the hidden secrets and the international hotspots – while stopping by local markets to experience the famous street food culture. Ever wonder about the benefits of Tai Chi? Find out by practicing the traditional morning exercises and perhaps start a new ritual to start your days in China. Cruise the Huangpu River learning about the history of the Bund on the west bank and the modern Pudong area on the east bank then spend a day at the ancient watertown of Zhouzhuang. Before getting settled into your new home for the semester, we also provide an introduction to the academic system in China, integration issues, health and safety practices, and other helpful information for navigating your semester.

Housing

TEAN offers students a unique living experience to aid in cultural immersion. Students participating in our Semester in Shanghai program typically live in prearranged Western-style, off-campus apartments located within walking distance of the university. A unique feature of our program is the opportunity to experience integrated housing with local Chinese students also living in the apartments with TEAN students. The Chinese suitemates are all Fudan University students and are on hand to assist program participants in assimilating into a new culture. Wondering where to grab the best cup of coffee? Odds are, your roommate will not only tell you where, but will take you and introduce you to new friends.

Fully furnished and including wireless Internet, the apartments are ready for you to move into as soon as you begin your semester. The city of Shanghai becomes even more accessible with university students there to help provide local insight and informal language practice. Our language pledge means only Mandarin is spoken in your house on certain days of the week creating another fun way to improve the language skills of you and your roommates.

Alternatively, TEAN can arrange for students to live in Fudan University’s on-campus housing option, which is a dorm for international students.

TEAN Staff

Our team works with you start to finish through the study abroad process. Our programs staff will help guide you through the application process to go abroad, then upon arrival in China, you will meet our team who will provide assistance during your time in-country. Throughout your semester you will meet with the Shanghai Resident Director for informal discussions and cultural activities. Our staff is readily available and able to assist you with any academic, social, or cultural questions or issues that you may face during your time abroad.

Meet the Team

Academics

About Fudan University

Founded in 1905, Fudan is consistently ranked in the top three universities in China, in the top 45 universities globally and number one in Shanghai based on the QS World University Rankings 2019.
Fudan University also has 13 subject areas ranked in the world’s top 100 universities – with Politics and International Studies ranked 40th in the world and second in China – based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject.
Of Fudan’s approximately 29,000 students, 3,000 are international students from more than 120 different countries.
The campus combines modern China with the traditions and customs of the university’s rich 100-year history. Modern towers complement beautiful Chinese gardens and provide a stimulating and contemplative environment for learning.
Located in the Yangpu District, north of Shanghai’s city center, the university is serviced by the city’s extensive subway system with a train station is just a short walk from campus.

University of Virginia Language Program

All students on the TEAN Fudan program receive language instruction taught to the undergraduate Mandarin language curriculum of the University of Virginia by UVA instructors while they study at Fudan.
Language classes are available at all levels and determined by placement examination upon arrival in Shanghai.
All language classes will appear on a UVA transcript.
Elementary and Intermediate Mandarin language classes meet for 4 hours per week. 1 hour, Monday through Thursday, for a total of 72 contact hours across the 18-week semester. Advanced language classes meet for 3 hours per week, for a total of 54 hours across the 18-week semester.
All students will have 30 minutes of scheduled language practice each week with a Chinese roommate.
Syllabi for the UVA language classes are available by request.

Location

Fudan University is a traditional campus located in the Yangpu District, north of Shanghai’s city center. Visit the google map link below to see the location.

View Map

Courses

Fudan University is continuing to offer more courses in English which enables TEAN students to benefit from an integrated academic experience in China studying alongside China’s future leaders. Courses offered in English include the following disciplines: Business; Humanities and Social Sciences; Science; Computer Science and Information Technology; International Studies; Media and Communication; Pharmacy.

Students fluent in Mandarin are able to select from the full comprehensive range of courses offered by Fudan University.

Between the UVA language courses and the Fudan University courses, students typically enroll in 4-5 subjects per semester, which usually transfer as 12-16 U.S. semester credits. The number of U.S. credits will be determined by your university. Please note that students may take up to 12 Fudan credits in addition to the 3-4 UVA language credits.

The below list of courses are popular courses offered each semester. Course lists for Chinese universities are released quite late compared to U.S. universities, however offerings rarely change from year to year. Students will utilize the previous year’s course listings to select courses.

Popular Spring courses offered in English

Research Methodology & Scientific Paper Writing BIOL130051
Human Evolutionary Genetics BIOL130073
Biological Thermodynamics BIOL130093
General Chemistry II CHEM120006
Linguistics of Chinese Sign Language CHIN130173
Atmospheric Chemistry ENVI130045
Aqueous Environmental Chemistry ENVI130061
North European Movies FORE110021
Selected Readings in History of American Literature FORE110068
Korean Business & Management in the Global Context MANA110050
Organizational Behavior MANA130046
Problem-Based Pharmacology PHAR130086
Artistic Charms of Chinese Traditional Culture PHIL110045
Philosophy of Logic PHIL130048
Fundamental Physics Experiments PHYS120015
Politics & External Relations of the European Union POLI130032
Western Etiquette Culture POLI130137
Introduction to Comparative Politics POLI130153
Religion in Chinese Society SOCI130136
Experiment Spectroscopy TCPH130020
International Investment Law LAWS130036
International Commercial Arbitration Law LAWS130041
Financial Management MANA130004
Marketing Management MANA130006
Marketing Information Systems MANA130007
Organizational Communication & Its Social Context MANA120324
Investment Fund Management MANA130349
Microeconomics SOFT120004
Introduction to Psychology SOCI120013

Popular Fall courses offered in English

Bioethics BIOL130067
General Chemistry A I CHEM120005
How to Write Research Paper ECON130171
Energy & Environment ENVI110010
Global Environmental Change ENVI130044
Instrumentation ENVI130071
Nordic Literature FORE110013
Shakespearean Tragedy FORE110031
Language & Culture FORE110036
Selected Readings in History of American Literature FORE110068
British & American Press FORE110071
Selected Readings in English Short Stories FORE110076
Marketing Channel Management MANA130059
Service Marketing MANA130062
Business Ethics MANA130320
Microsystem & Lab on a Chip MATE130086
Molecular Imaging & Drug Discovery PHAR130092
Philosophy of Mind PHIL130101
History of Diplomacy in Modern China POLI110033
Regional Scenario: Asian Pacific POLI110034
International Political Economics POLI110035
Nordic Countries: An Introduction POLI110049
Intercultural & International Communication POLI130138
Collective Actions I POLI130155
Dissertation Writing POLI130170
International Economic Policy POLI130187
China’s Population & Development SOCI110033
Urbanisation & Development SOCI110052
Shanghai in Comparative Perspective: Urban Research SOCI130135
International Finance ECON110024
Economics of Development ECON130012
International Marketing ECON130063
Project Evaluation MANA116005
Foreign Business Investment MANA116015
Entrepreneurial Development MANA116018
International Markets Study MANA116019
Business Research Methods MANA116021
Company Logistics MANA116022
Personal & Business Finance MANA116027
Investment Fund Management MANA130349
Pre-Qin (Classical) Daoism & Mohism PHIL110030
General Physics B PHYS120003
Conflict Resolution & International Negotiation POLI110039
Introduction to International Relations POLI110046
Introduction to Psychology SOSC120013
Tourism Marketing TOUR130007

Internship

Interested in interning part-time while studying abroad during your semester? TEAN offers the opportunity to add a part-time internship in addition to your courses through Fudan and UVA. This is a great opportunity to gain real world professional experience and add to your resume while abroad. Past placements have been in the fields of Business, Marketing, Software Development, Journalism, Event Management and Advertising, and are usually 2-3 days per week. If you decide you would like to give an internship a shot, please notify your program manager once you apply for the program.

Please note: There is an additional $500 cost for all internships sourced through our team. Internships will be sourced after arrival and finalization of your course schedule to assure your internship does not conflict with your classes.

Eligibility

2.75 GPA. Students with a slightly lower GPA should contact TEAN and may be admitted on a case-by-case basis.
Minimum sophomore standing at a two-year or four-year institution at the time of participation.
Students holding citizenship from China, Macau, Taiwan and Hong Kong are ineligible per Chinese University policy if they do not hold citizenship in another country.

Events & Excursions

Activities/Immersion

Throughout the semester, TEAN immerses you in the local culture by arranging regular excursions. Join the locals at a nearby park for a tai chi class or learn the ancient art of calligraphy. Take in Shanghai’s history and development during a cruise of the Huangpu River. Activities may vary each semester, but you can be certain TEAN’s local staff are keen for you to experience the best of Shanghai and its culture.

Beijing and Great Wall Excursion

Spend an extended weekend exploring the cultural differences of Beijing. Beginning with the high speed train up to China’s capital city, you will experience a great mix of historical sights and contemporary culture. Visit the home of former emperors in the ancient Forbidden City and visit Tiananmen Square. Get your hiking shoes on for a TEAN exclusive overnight stay at the Great Wall of China. We make sure to provide the ultimate experience with a sunrise hike along an off-the-beaten path section of this amazing manmade wonder. Once you visit the Great Wall, you’ll truly understand the greatness of China’s past, present, and future. Back in Beijing explore the historic hutongs (alleyways), and experience a delicious Peking duck dinner. This packed weekend will show you the highlights of Beijing and is entirely included in your TEAN program fee!

Chengdu Weekend Excursion

Rich with cultural history, archaic infrastructure and cute, cuddly pandas, Chengdu makes for the perfect long weekend trip while studying abroad in China and is included in your TEAN program fee. Explore the region’s iconic “Wide and Narrow Alleys”, known as Kuai Shai Xiangzi, which are a tribute to the ancient architecture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties, marvel at one of Taoism’s central birthplaces, Mount Qingcheng, and take in the scenery surrounding the Dujiangyan Irrigation System, a UNESCO World Heritage site noted for being the oldest grand irrigation system in the world and home to a number of cultural relics. Of course, a visit to Chengdu wouldn’t be complete without time spent at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding! Enjoy a guided tour and plenty of time to explore on your own in the presence of these incredible creatures.

APPLICATION DEADLINES

TEAN has a rolling admissions process. We recommend submitting your application anytime from June for Spring applications, and from January for Fall applications. Late applications may be considered. Contact TEAN if the application deadline has passed.

Spring Deadline	Nov 15
Fall Deadline	May 15

Fall 2021

This program not running for Fall 2021. Please check back for future available terms.

Date of Arrival	Late Aug
TEAN Orientation	Aug 20	Aug 24
Classes Begin	Aug 30
Classes End	Dec 10
Exam Period	Dec 11	Dec 17
Program Ends	Dec 18

Spring 2022*

Date of Arrival	Mid-Feb
TEAN Orientation	Feb 23	Feb 26
Classes Begin	Feb 28
Classes End	July 2
Program Ends	July 3

*These dates are tentative. Final dates will be released closer to departure.

Fees & Inclusions

Fall 2021

Fudan and UVA Tuition $5,725*
TEAN Program Fee $5,725
Estimated Housing
- $4,425 (TEAN Off-Campus Apartment with TEAN students and a Chinese roommate)
- $2,350 (University Dorm Option, No Chinese roommate)

*Tuition includes 12 Fudan credits plus one language course taken at either Fudan or UVA. Any additional credits will be billed at a rate of $250 USD per credit.

Spring 2021

Fudan and UVA Tuition $5,725*
TEAN Program Fee $5,725
Housing
- $4,425 (TEAN Off-Campus Apartment with TEAN students and a Chinese roommate)
- $2,350 (University Dorm Option, No Chinese roommate)

*Tuition includes 12 Fudan credits plus one language course taken at either Fudan or UVA. Any additional credits will be billed at a rate of $250 USD per credit.

What’s Included

Full tuition (12 Fudan credits and one language course)
Guaranteed prearranged, Western-style housing integrated with students in the host country (Or on-campus international student dormitory)
Comprehensive overseas health insurance
Services of local Resident Directors
Five-day Orientation Program with meals, accommodations and transportation
Wireless Internet access in housing
Local SIM card/cell phone for access to Mandarin services on local networks
Access to low air fares and discounted group flights
Excursion to Beijing, including visiting the Great Wall of China
Optional weekend field trips to cultural sites of interest
Travel arrangements and advice
University and course selection advice
Official academic transcripts from host institution
Credit approval and transfer assistance
Academic advising
Help with student visa preparation
Airport pickup and reception
Host university orientation
A truly one-of-a-kind adventure!

What’s Not Included

International airfare ($1,100)
Student visa ($130)
Books ($200)
Meals during the semester ($1,000)
Airport transfer at end of semester ($30)
International mailing of admissions documents ($45)
Visa Adjustment Fee – only required if applicant does not receive a visa covering the duration of their stay ($150)
Additional credits for any classes outside of the 12 credit limit, not including 1 language course ($250 per credit)
Travel insurance ($350)

*Numbers are estimated based on previous student experience and budget. Actual amounts will vary depending on student.

Scholarships

TEAN Scholarships

Apply for TEAN scholarships – starting at $1,000 – for the chance to receive money specifically for studying abroad. Each year we award thousands of dollars in need- and merit-based scholarships, diversity scholarships, a full ride scholarship and more. Visit our scholarships page for details!

We Love Shanghai

Medusa Fang

Resident Director - Shanghai

Shanghai Tip

Fresh Produce Market

Guoding Road leads from the TEAN apartments on Daxue Lu to the East Gate of Fudan. What a lot of students never find, though, is the awesome vegetable and meat market a short walk in the other direction! Turn right, go about ten minutes from Guoding and Daxue, enter an apartment complex, and you’ll find a wonderful semi-open market where you can eat like royalty for a week on 200 RMB or less.

Q&A

How did you come to work in International Education?
Right after my graduation from Fudan University, I started to work in international education at Fudan. I have been working on admission of international students for 13 years. My work at Fudan University was to provide general services to international students. Now I work with TEAN students and help them with everything in-country. I arrange cultural activities to help students get in touch with local people and engage them into local culture.

What about Chinese culture and life in Shanghai most surprises students when they arrive?
I think it is the food here. Near Fudan University, there are so many restaurants and street food that are so tasty and so cheap. I think Chinese people are really creative in making food. Just prepare your stomach, you will love it.

What is your favorite dish in Shanghai that you would encourage every student to try?
My favourite dish is sweet and sour boneless yellow fish. I have loved it ever since childhood. We will have it together during our orientation in the most famous Shanghai restaurant, Lv Bo Lang.

What are some of the not-to-be-missed bucket list items every study abroad student should check off their list during their semester abroad?
I would say trying to speak the local language and holding conversations with locals, eating all the types of food, making as many friends as possible, going to another city without the assistance of anyone and trying to make your way around.

What are some of your favorite Shanghai secret spots that you love but maybe are a bit off the beaten track?
Bus 49 goes through the most beautiful part of Shanghai. It connects the east Bund area with the west French concession area. The cost is only RMB 2 for a single trip. On the way, you can see most beautiful streets and architecture in Shanghai. Try to take the bus in different seasons to see great views.

Lily Andrules

Associate Regional Director

Shanghai Tip

Street Food

Around Fudan, there are limitless options for street food! In this area of the city, most of the vendors are trustworthy – be sure to try out the grilled skewers, roujiamou (pulled pork sandwiches with Chinese characteristics)= and fried noodles. My favorite noodle place is on Zhengtong Road, just inside the first floor of an apartment building. (Ask for the chao udon mian pronounced chow ew-dawn mee-in. 10 RMB and you’re in heaven!)

Q&A

What keeps you busy outside of your work for TEAN?
I’m definitely one of those people who feels like they’re never busy enough. I’m on the board in my alma mater’s alumni association in Chicago (Go Temple Owls!). I also am on the associates board for Streetwise, a non profit in the Chicago area that provides job opportunities and other services for Chicago’s homeless. I also run a food blog with my sister in my spare time.

Your undergraduate degree was in Film and Media Arts, what led your to your current role?
This is a question I get asked a lot. After studying abroad I worked at my college’s study abroad office. I realized that no matter how difficult or challenging work was, I still loved my job with all my heart. As soon as I realized this, I threw myself into international education and study abroad advising as much as I could to get experience…eventually it led me to TEAN!

What is the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part is when I hear back from students about how incredible their time abroad was or see their photos on the #TEANabroad tag on Instagram. Knowing that they’re having a great experience is very rewarding.

As a passionate foodie, what have been some of the food highlights from your travels?
Korean barbecue is equal parts a flavor and cultural experience. My favorite spot was this little place that was just barely big enough to stand up in that we went to during a TEAN Orientation in Seoul. During a different TEAN Orientation in Shanghai, one of the coolest experiences was when we went to a cooking class and learned to make xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). It really takes a lot of precision when making these, and they definitely didn’t all turn out perfect, but it was very rewarding and delicious to eat what we had made.

What is your favorite travel or study abroad quote and why?
“I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list” – Susan Sontag I love this one because for me it’s not just enough to go to a country once. It’s important to really immerse and learn about people different than you. It broadens your opinions and your ways of thinking, and makes you more understanding and sympathetic.