Master of Arts


in International Studies

Outside of the Classroom

What Is Student Life Like?

The integration of academic and residential environments offers the opportunity for students and faculty to candidly discuss critical political, economic and sociological issues facing China and the world today. Extra-curricular and co-curricular activities enhance this unique learning experience outside of the classroom, while living with a Chinese roommate nurtures long-lasting camaraderie and mutual scholastic support.

The HNC's first-rate facilities include:

  • library
  • classrooms
  • conference center
  • auditorium
  • student residence hall
  • cafeteria
  • computer room
  • work-out room
  • rooftop terrace
  • lounge
  • laundry facilities with
    washers and dryers
  • recreational rooms
  • wireless Internet access
  • 24-hour hot water
  • heating/air-conditioning
    throughout the center

Student Interest Groups and Activities

Students, faculty and staff create a thriving academic and residential community within a bilingual, multicultural environment that deepens Sino-global understanding. Students participate in interest groups, headed by the class committee or banwei.

Interest groups and activities include:

  • Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition
  • Basketball Team
  • Student Business Exchange
  • Extracurricular classes in erhu, calligraphy, cooking and tai chi
  • Dragon Boat Team
  • Sichuan Volunteer Group

Discover Student Organizations at SAIS

Research Opportunities

Hopkins-Nanjing Center students can supplement their studies by participating in HNC-specific research opportunities where they can put their language and research skills to use.

The Hassenfeld Social Enterprise Fund allows students to compete annually to create innovative, sustainable projects that address a social need in the Nanjing community.

Center students can collaborate with SAIS students and faculty on China research trips throughout the academic year. Recently, HNC students have been selected to take part in trips in conjunction with SAIS programs including China Studies, Latin American Studies, and Energy, Resources and Environment.

M.A.I.S. students are encouraged to apply through the HNC for funding to support thesis research and internship opportunities during breaks. Each year, grants are made available so that students can expand the scope of their study and enhance their professional experience both within China and throughout the world.

Lectures

HNC hosts weekly lectures in both English and Chinese exclusively for the center community. In recent years, the HNC has welcomed leaders in policy, business, law and academia, including:

  • Jon Huntsman Jr., former U.S. ambassador to China
  • David M. Lampton, director of The SAIS China Studies Program
  • Stephen Roach, former chairman of Morgan Stanley Asia
  • Cui Tiankai, assistant minister of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China

Mini-Courses

Several times each semester, HNC hosts renowned practitioners from a wide range of fields to offer short-term, intensive courses geared toward providing a hands-on look at a particular aspect of Sino-global relations beyond the normal HNC curriculum. Recent examples include:

  • Analyzing Political Risk in Asia
  • Chinese Labor in Its Domestic and International Contexts
  • Global Climate Change and Environmental Law Response
  • Private Equity in China