A Legacy of Excellence
Early History and Transformation
Peking University was established as the Imperial University of Peking in 1898, making it the second oldest university in China, following Tianjin University (established in 1895). In May 1912, after the founding of the Republic of China, the university was renamed Peking University as part of the broader national transition toward modernization.
The university grew substantially during the early 20th century. In 1917, the noted scholar Cai Yuanpei became the president, playing a crucial role in shaping the institution’s future. Inspired by the German academic model, Cai introduced faculty governance and democratic management, laying the foundations for what would become a hub of intellectual freedom in China.
PKU also merged with Yenching University in 1952 as part of the restructuring of China’s higher education system, followed by the merger of Beijing Medical University in 2000, solidifying its academic influence and comprehensive offerings.
Key Facts about Peking University
- Affiliations: PKU is part of prestigious projects like Project 211, Project 985, and the Double First-Class Construction initiative. It is also a prominent member of the C9 League, which represents China’s top universities.
- Academic Excellence: PKU has six academic faculties—Humanities, Social Sciences, Economics and Management, Science, Information Technology and Engineering, and Health Science. These faculties comprise over 55 schools and departments, offering more than 125 undergraduate programs and 282 master's programs across a range of disciplines.
- World-Class Research: By 2017, PKU had 76 academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, 19 members of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, and 25 members of the World Academy of Sciences on its staff, ensuring its reputation as a leader in scientific and academic research.
A Beautiful and Historic Campus
The Heart of the University
Nestled in Beijing’s Haidian district, PKU’s campus is an iconic blend of tradition and modernity. American architect and historian Talbot Hamlin designed many of the buildings constructed between 1919-1922, including the stunning West Gate, famous for its painted murals. Weiming Lake, situated in the northern part of the campus, provides a tranquil retreat surrounded by lush gardens and pathways.
PKU also features numerous cultural attractions. The Museum of University History and Arthur M. Sackler Museum of Art and Archaeology showcase rare artifacts, including funerary objects dating back to the Warring States period, providing invaluable insight into China’s ancient past. PKU’s picturesque setting offers the perfect environment for scholarly exploration and creative pursuits.
Health Science Research
Beyond its main campus, Peking University Health Science Center (PKUHSC), located on Xueyuan Road, plays a vital role in the university's comprehensive medical and health sciences education. Known for its distinguished faculty and research output, PKUHSC contributes significantly to healthcare advancements and medical innovation in China and beyond.
Focused and Diverse Academics
Peking University offers a wide range of programs across various levels, allowing students to explore and innovate in numerous fields. The university provides undergraduate programs, graduate degrees, and doctoral candidates with specialized programs in both basic and applied research.
With 30 schools and 12 departments, PKU’s academic framework is designed to foster both creative and practical research, blending traditional disciplines with cutting-edge knowledge in areas like economics, engineering, health sciences, social sciences, and much more. Whether students are involved in theoretical study or hands-on research, PKU strives to give its scholars the tools they need to become leaders in their respective fields.
Conclusion
Peking University is much more than just an educational institution. With its rich history, world-class faculty, and a commitment to groundbreaking research, it stands as a symbol of China’s global academic aspirations. By focusing on academic freedom, intellectual exchange, and global citizenship, PKU continues to shape the minds of future generations, contributing to both national progress and global knowledge. For those seeking a top-tier educational experience in China, Peking University remains a destination of choice, one that blends tradition with modernity to shape the future.
Want to learn more about Peking University? Visit their official website at pku.edu.cn.
