China is an absolutely massive country, boasting the world’s largest population and second largest land area. There is a tremendous amount of diversity within, and any destination you choose to earn a degree in China will prove significantly different from the next.

Shanghai is the country’s largest city, and in many ways has become the face of modern China. It is the economic and financial motor of the country, complete with a highly modern infrastructure and imposing skyline. Students who wish to live at China’s center stage of industry and innovation should consider earning a degree in Shanghai as their top option.

Beijing, the country’s capital and second largest city, is no less a prestigious destination for degree programs in China than its slightly larger counterpart. Beijing has served as the seat of the Chinese government throughout centuries of change, and today the sense of global prominence is palpable. Beijing also hosts the country’s two most highly ranked universities, Peking University and Tsinghua University, both widely respected global institutions.

Other popular destinations for degree programs in China include Hangzhou, Kunming, and Xi’an. While living and studying in China for an extended period of time, you should also take advantage of your vacations to get away from city life and explore as much of the country as possible.