Joint Program ENU – Nankai University

Joint master’s program offered by Nankai University (PRC) and L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (Kazakhstan), officially approved by the Ministry of Education of the People’s Republic of China. The program includes two specializations: “Digital Economy and Industrial Innovation” (License No. MOE12KZ1A20252406N https://www.crs.jsj.edu.cn/aproval/detail/3578) and “International Business and Strategic Trade Control” (License No. MOE12KZ1A20252405N https://www.crs.jsj.edu.cn/aproval/detail/3577).

Both tracks support the “Belt and Road” initiative and aim to train highly qualified, well-rounded professionals in economic management who can operate effectively in the context of globalization, scientific‑technical transformation, and international cooperation.

The program is designed to develop professional competencies in digital economy, industrial modernization, international trade, and strategic partnerships, supporting the sustainable, high-quality development of joint international initiatives.

Kazakhstan was the first country to propose the “Belt and Road” initiative. L.N. Gumilyov Eurasian National University (ENU), located in Astana, is one of the leading public universities in Kazakhstan and Central Asia. ENU is a member of the European University Association, Eurasian Association of Universities, Asian University Alliance, CIS Network University, SCO University, European Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education, and other international organizations.

The Faculty of Economics at ENU is the largest academic and research unit of the university. In the QS 2024 subject ranking for “Economics & Econometrics,” it is ranked in the 251–300 range.

Nankai University is a major comprehensive university under the Ministry of Education of the PRC. It is part of national initiatives “Project 211,” “Project 985,” and the “Double First-Class” university initiative. Its Faculty of Economics has two first‑level disciplines: theoretical economy and applied economy. It is a leading domestic and internationally recognized center for economic education, research, exchange, and a major analytical hub supporting China’s economic reforms and development.

1. Independent admission and state recognition of diploma: This officially approved joint program exempts students from the national graduate entrance exam. ENU independently handles admissions.

2. International educational format: Faculty from both universities teach core courses. Classes include lectures, practical workshops, case studies, online consultations, and more. Students interact deeply with professors, industry experts, and distinguished alumni, and participate in outbound study modules, idea exchange, and BRI business opportunities.

3. Focus on Belt & Road: The program helps students understand the political, economic, and cultural dimensions of the BRI. Graduates gain international vision, multicultural competence, digital economy insights, data‑analysis skills, strategic management, innovative thinking, and project implementation abilities.

Developed based on strengths of both universities, the program consists of 20 courses totaling 121 credits.

Key subjects include:

“Digital Economy and Industrial Innovation”: Theory & practice of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era; Scientific research methodologies; Micro‑ & macroeconomics; Digital economy management; Big data analysis & economic decision‑making; Industrial policy theory & practice; Urban & regional industry analysis; Agricultural economics; International business; Investment project analysis.

“International Business and Strategic Trade Control”: Theory and Practice of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics in the New Era, Transnational Corporations and International Investment, Theory and Policy of International Trade, Strategic Trade Control in International Economic Relations, International Business, International Logistics and Supply Chain Management, International Marketing, China's Economic Development and Current Issues of Cooperation within the Belt and Road Initiative, International Trade Law, Intercultural Communication and Business Negotiation.

Duration: 2 years, credit system

Tuition: 160,000 CNY total (80,000 CNY/year). Exact fees depend on the academic year announcement. Excludes costs of accommodation, food, travel, and personal expenses.

1. Seats available: 90 per year (admission closes once full)

2. Program start: as per university notice

3. Mode of study: part-time (non-residential)

4. Teaching methods: lectures, case study analysis, interactive discussions, seminars, practice‑oriented learning, online support

5. Instruction languages: Chinese, English, or Russian

6. Assessment: homework, research reports, essays, attendance

Upon successful completion of coursework, credits, and thesis defense, students earn an M.A. in Economics from ENU. The diploma can be officially recognized via the CSCSE (China’s Ministry of Education foreign credential recognition center).

1. Patriotism; good physical and mental health

2. Bachelor's degree from a national education system. Candidates with only a bachelor’s but exceptional achievements must submit award certificates and be approved by ENU.

3. Basic knowledge of economics and a foreign language. Shortlisted candidates take a written exam and interview.

*Written test includes English and Economics fundamentals (recommended: “Western Economics,” 3rd ed., Higher Education Press, 2021, by Ma Yingzhong).
Admission is competitive; in equal cases, earlier and complete applications get priority.

1. Signed application form in Chinese
2. Passport & ID copy (both sides), notarized Russian translation
3. Two recent color passport-size photos, no headwear
4. Bachelor’s diploma + transcripts, notarized Russian translations
5. CHSI verification of bachelor’s diploma
6. Medical certificate with chest X-ray, notarized translation
7. Award or honor certificates (optional)
8. Financial solvency proof (submitted after passing online interview)

1. Submit full application package
2. Preliminary document review
3. Entrance exams: written & interview
4. Admission decision based on reviews and test results
5. Tuition payment (must pay on time to secure admission)
6. Enrollment process per official admissions notice
7. Participation in opening ceremony

Official query portal at Nankai University:

https://economics.nankai.edu.cn/gjswhzlmykzwwydylwjmhzw/list.htm

Consultation phone (Joint programs office): +86‑22‑23500620

https://economics.nankai.edu.cn/hzbx/list.htm

ENU Office in China: +86‑21‑65139053

Email: enu.nankai@enu.kz

Disclaimer: Application and admission procedures adhere strictly to PRC Ministry of Education and both universities’ regulations. Processes are transparent, fair, and impartial. Information from unofficial channels is not legally binding.