In recent years, many Chinese universities have extended their graduate programs from two to three years, citing reasons such as “improving the quality of graduate education.” However, some observers link this change to rising youth unemployment rates, viewing it as a temporary measure to address job market pressures.
Multiple universities, including Guangxi Normal University, Shenyang University of Technology, and Xi’an International Studies University, have announced extensions to their master’s and doctoral programs starting from 2025. The adjustments affect various disciplines, including chemistry, education, literature, and foreign languages.
Experts argue that postgraduate education emphasizes specialization and depth, requiring higher quality standards. They claim that extending the study period provides more space to meet these requirements and optimize the training process.
Supporters of the change suggest it allows for strengthened classroom teaching, improved education quality, and more opportunities for students to engage in practical experiences. It also gives students more time for thesis writing and job hunting.
Critics of the move acknowledge that this extension may be linked to China’s changing employment landscape, with many graduates opting for “slow employment.” While the longer study period may help students find more suitable jobs, some argue that it shouldn’t be a one-size-fits-all approach or merely a stopgap measure to address social employment pressures. They suggest allowing capable and willing students to graduate early.
Source: Central News Agency (Taiwan), July 25, 2024
https://www.cna.com.tw/news/acn/202407250355.aspx