The Path to Building an Applied University

Author: Kong Fanmin
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-02-22
Features: Higher education institutions are divided into three basic types: comprehensive research universities, specialized applied multidisciplinary or single-disciplinary universities or colleges, and vocational technical higher education institutions. The specialized applied universities and colleges, which lie between research universities and vocational technical colleges, are higher education institutions that cultivate specialized talents such as engineers, economists, lawyers, teachers, clinical physicians, as well as cadres and management personnel at various levels. They constitute the main part of the higher education system, with over 600 of the more than 700 undergraduate institutions nationwide being of this type. However, so far, the nature and characteristics of applied universities and colleges, as well as how to effectively run such institutions, urgently require systematic and empirical research. This book fills the gap in research on this type of higher education institution. The book is divided into two parts: The first part provides a systematic theoretical study of the construction of applied universities and colleges, elaborating on their meaning, characteristics, models, disciplines and majors, scientific research, faculty, student management, and teaching management, and finally points out the development direction of applied universities and colleges. The second part is a practical case study, using Beijing Union University’s Applied Arts and Sciences College as a typical example to conduct an empirical research on all aspects of running an effective applied university and college. This book is both theoretical and empirical. The systematic theory formed on the basis of practice is undoubtedly important for researchers studying the classification and positioning of higher education institutions. It also holds significant reference and value for applied universities and colleges nationwide. China’s higher education has transitioned from an elite education phase to a mass education phase. In this new context, how can municipal-run comprehensive general universities seize the opportunity to develop themselves? Beijing Union University’s Applied Arts and Sciences College has explored a successful path in building applied universities and colleges. This book is the culmination of its years of reform practices and theoretical research. The book is divided into two parts: The first part provides a systematic theoretical study of the construction of applied universities and colleges, elaborating on their meaning, characteristics, models, disciplines and majors, scientific research, faculty, student management, and teaching management, and finally points out the development direction of applied universities and colleges. The second part is a practical case study, using Beijing Union University’s Applied Arts and Sciences College as a typical example to conduct an empirical research on all aspects of running an effective applied university and college. Reading this book will not only provide a comprehensive and systematic theoretical understanding of "what an applied university is" and "how to run an applied university effectively" but also offer practical operational experience.