Beijing Normal University – Full Review

Overview

Beijing Normal University (BNU) is a renowned institution for higher education in China, particularly in the field of teacher education and pedagogy. It is also recognized for its achievements in science, social studies, and humanities, particularly in the areas of urban studies, environmental studies, and psychology. BNU has been officially designated as a “Project 985” and “Project 211” university, which acknowledges its status as one of China’s top universities.

History

Beijing Normal University was founded in 1902 as the Imperial Capital University Normal College. It was originally established to provide teacher training for the primary and secondary education levels in China. Since then, the university has undergone several periods of change, including multiple location changes and a brief closure during the Cultural Revolution. Today, BNU is located in the Haidian District of Beijing and has become a comprehensive university with a diverse range of academic programs.

Organization

BNU is organized into various colleges and schools, including the College of Education, the College of Life Sciences, the College of Chemistry, the College of Physics, and the College of Urban and Environmental Sciences. The university also has a Graduate School, a School of Social Development and Public Policy, and a School of Foreign Languages and Literature. Additionally, BNU has several research institutions, such as the Institute of International and Comparative Education, the Institute of Curriculum and Instruction, and the Institute of Brain and Cognitive Sciences.

Campus

BNU’s campus is spread across several locations in Beijing, with the main campus located in the heart of the Haidian district. The campus covers an area of over 271 acres and is known for its beautiful traditional Chinese architecture blending with modern design elements. It features various academic and administrative buildings, libraries, sports facilities, and student residences.

Academics

BNU offers a diverse range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, with over 70 undergraduate majors and nearly 200 master’s and doctoral programs. The university is known for its excellence in education and research, with an emphasis on teacher education, natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities. BNU has a highly qualified faculty, including many renowned academics and scholars.

Colleges and schools

– The College of Education
– The College of Life Sciences
– The College of Chemistry
– The College of Physics
– The College of Urban and Environmental Sciences
– The Graduate School
– The School of Social Development and Public Policy
– The School of Foreign Languages and Literature

Student life

Students at BNU have access to a wide range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama clubs, as well as student-run organizations and associations. The university also offers a variety of student services, such as career counseling, academic support, and international student services.

Athletics

BNU has a vibrant sports culture, with various sports teams and clubs for students to join. The university has modern athletic facilities, including a soccer field, basketball courts, and a swimming pool.

Notable alumni

BNU has produced many notable alumni, including renowned scientists, educators, and politicians. Some of the university’s most famous alumni include Nobel Prize laureate Tu Youyou, Chinese Vice Premier Liu Yandong, and social activist Fu Jie.

University Profile