If you are looking for an opportunity to study abroad, learn about Chinese language and culture, and learn how to do business in China, this minor is for you. You need to be able to adapt to the local culture, work together with other students and have a flexible attitude and an open mindset. 

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China is the second largest economy in the world and one of the fastest growing ones. Its production capabilities and market potential influence all global markets. European companies recognise the potential of China and business relationships are developing. In this globalising world, having awareness, knowledge and understanding of Chinese culture, language and business policies is an asset. It is this asset that this minor aims at. 

This minor programme is an intensive programme on Chinese language, Chinese culture and the Chinese business environment, of course organised in China’s most important and vibrant city Shanghai. 

This is a fixed minor; you cannot choose other courses than those in the package. 

Below a link to the flyer with more information regarding the minor:
Flyer Minor Doing Business in China 2026 

Courses

The programme takes place at HU University of Applied Sciences Utrecht (Business Assignment) as well as at SHUFE (Shanghai University of Finance and Economics).   

Business in China - 10EC

Chinese Language - 15EC

Chinese Culture - 5EC

Additional costs
SUFE works with a so-called Administration Fee for all Incoming students of approximately 500 Chinese Yen (approx. 70 US$) ; this has to be paid in US$ by the student through a bank transfer after confirmation of acceptance by SUFE.

During the programme, you’ll work on the following competencies: 

• International business awareness 
• Intercultural competency 
• International marketing and sales management 
• International supply chain management 
• Co-operation 
• Business communication 
• Business research methods 
• Planning and organising 

There is a very limited application period for this minor. This is due to the organizational handling with China. HU students can only register for this minor by participating in the 1st registration round of ‘Pre-registration in Osiris (13 to 20 March) and Selection’. Click on Enrolment at the top of the HU minor site for all information about pre-registration and selection (the draw).

Between 24 Mach and 2 April, the minor contact person will contact you to conduct an intake meeting, provided that you have indicated this minor as your first preference in Osiris between 13 and 20 March.

An intake meeting with the coordinator (gerard.vanleeuwen@hu.nl) to assess your motivation, attitude and English language skills is part of the admission process. As all courses are taught in English, you are expected to have attained English language skills at CEFR level B2. If you are unsure about your level, you can do a (free) written and spoken assessment. Contact the programme coordinator for more information. You do not need an internship or workplace to take the minor. 

Disciplined Startup Founder: A Founder's Guide to Customer Discovery, by Robert de Bruijn, ISBN 9789082977806, first edition.  

Classes will take place in Shanghai five days a week.

De les- en toetsroosters worden, met uitzondering van de eerste onderwijsperiode van het studiejaar (start september), altijd vier weken voor de start van iedere onderwijsperiode op Mijn Rooster geplaatst. Het rooster voor de eerste onderwijsperiode van het studiejaar is drie weken voor de start vindbaar op de site. Op Mijn Rooster is altijd het meest actuele rooster zichtbaar. 
Op de HU mag voltijdonderwijs geroosterd worden tussen 08.30 en 19.00 uur. 

Business in China:

Assessment through written assignment

Chinese Language:

Assessment at partner university; type of assessment based on partner university's requirements (In case of a pass it will lead to an exemption (VRY) on your HU grading list).

Chinese Culture:

Assessment at partner university; type of assessment based on partner university's requirements (In case of a pass it will lead to an exemption (VRY) on your HU grading list).