Many international students choose Beijing Normal University-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) because of its unique educational model.
It is ranked as the number one “Sino-foreign” university in China. These are special universities established by a partnership between a Chinese institution and an overseas partner, in this case, Hong Kong Baptist University. They are popular because they offer English-taught programs and globally recognized degrees while situated in fast-growing business hubs.
BNBU takes this further by being a 100% English-speaking campus with staff from over 30 countries, creating a diverse “Global Village” where everyone communicates in the same language. The location is another big plus. BNBU is in Zhuhai, a safe and beautiful coastal city often called the most livable place in China. It is part of the “Greater Bay Area,” a huge economic hub that includes Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Because Zhuhai is so close to these major cities, it is easy to travel or find internships at big companies, but the cost of living is much lower than in Hong Kong.
For students navigating their options for the 2026 intake, five majors consistently stand out as top choices. Here is a look at the most popular programs for international students and why they choose them.
1) Business & Management
Business majors remain the top draw for international students, largely because of the “Liberal Arts” flexibility that allows them to combine business skills with other passions.
Students value the location in the Greater Bay Area (a global hub for commerce) but they also appreciate the curriculum’s adaptability. Unlike traditional business schools, BNBU encourages students to broaden their horizons. The proximity to Shenzhen (less than an hour away) and Hong Kong offers students access to internships with Asian tech giants and financial firms, bridging the gap between classroom theory and the real-world economy.
“We found BNBU the perfect place to learn the Chinese language and culture while improving English with an international curriculum.”
— Bae Geuna, Marketing Management
2) Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
With China leading the world in digital innovation, the Computer Science and AI majors have exploded in popularity. Students are drawn to the ethical and practical approach of the program.
At BNBU, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including GPU clusters and robotics labs, allowing them to work on advanced projects in machine learning and computer vision. The university’s heavy investment in AI facilities attracts students who want to be responsible tech leaders, not just programmers.
“Being a major in robotics and general systems, I had many options. But China is the best place to learn what I love, and I really enjoy BNBU’s campus.”
— Zoe Rebolledo, International Exchange Student from Mexico
3) Chinese Culture & Global Communication
This major is a “niche hit” for students who want to become “China Experts” without facing the initial barrier of learning in Mandarin.
It solves a specific problem: international students want to understand China’s history and philosophy but often lack the language fluency to take these courses in Chinese. BNBU offers this deep cultural dive entirely in English. The curriculum balances traditional culture with modern communication. Students engage in practical courses like Guqin (ancient music) and ceramics, fostering a deep, tactile understanding of the culture.
“At BNBU, I can learn Chinese and English at the same time so it’s good chance to improve language skills. While get along with many international students, I could broaden sights and experience other different cultures. With many activities for students, I could get lots of precious memories.”
— BAE So Jung, from South Korea
4) Game Design and Digital Media
As the gaming industry projects to reach $665 billion by 2030, BNBU’s English-taught Game Design program has become a magnet for creative talent. Students appreciate the unique blend of Western educational standards with “localized” Chinese storytelling content, which is vital in the world’s largest gaming market.
The program emphasizes project-based learning. Students work in teams to develop actual games and interactive media, mirroring the collaborative environment of real-world studios.
“What is rare and exciting to me is the all-British educational background and localized teaching philosophy at UIC [BNBU]. It allows each CTV student to examine both domestic and international filmmaking… This spirit of independent thinking has always reminded students not to fall into one single mindset.”
— Zheng Kang, Cinema & Television Graduate, Class of 2021
5) Food Science and Technology
Driven by global challenges in food security, this major sees rising interest from students who want to make a tangible impact through science. Students are motivated by the heavy emphasis on research. Unlike programs that are purely theoretical, BNBU encourages undergraduates to publish papers and enter the lab early.
Graduates often highlight the program’s strong track record for further education. With over 74% of graduates pursuing further studies at top global universities, students choose this major as a springboard for an international research career.
The curriculum builds a strong foundation in Biology and Chemistry before moving into specialized areas like Food Process Engineering. Field trips to production facilities allow students to see these principles in action across the supply chain.
“Food is a celebration of culture, creativity, and connection… [BNBU’s] well-equipped research environment and curriculum setting grabbed my attention.”
— Enzo Dantez, International Student from Indonesia
Apply to BNBU
All undergraduate programs at BNBU are taught entirely in English, providing an accessible yet immersive experience in China.
If any of these majors interest you, applications for the 2026 intake are open now. We recommend getting started on your application as soon as possible to qualify for Early-Bird Scholarships, applying sooner rather than later makes sense since they’re awarded on a first-come basis.
Continue reading:
- Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU) Updates for 2026 Intake – Admissions Guide, Deadlines, Tuition, and Early-Bird Scholarships
- Inspiring Student Experiences from BNBU’s Global Community
- East and West Blend at Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU)
- 2026 Guide to China Scholarships - January 12, 2026
- Top 5 Most Popular Majors for International Students at BNBU (And Why They Choose Them) - January 12, 2026
- Westlake University Launches 4 New PhD Programs for International Students - December 31, 2025