Westlake University Opens PhD Admissions to International Bachelor’s Degree Holders

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Westlake University is now accepting international applicants with a bachelor’s degree directly into eight of its prestigious PhD programs. This significant change in admissions policy opens new doors for aspiring students worldwide who are passionate about making a difference in science and technology.

Previously, only international students with a master’s degree were eligible to apply for PhD programs. Recognizing the wealth of talent and ambition among bachelor’s degree holders globally, Westlake University has updated its admissions policy to be more inclusive.

This change reflects the university’s commitment to fostering a diverse and dynamic academic community dedicated to pioneering research and innovation.

Please note: The PhD in Mathematics (Joint Program with Fudan University) still requires international applicants to hold a master’s degree.

All PhD programs are 4 years.

• PhD in Information Technology in Artificial Intelligence

Westlake University’s Information Technology in Artificial Intelligence program is dedicated to advancing both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of AI, fostering strong interdisciplinary connections with medicine, life sciences, and engineering. As a Ph.D. student, you will receive immersive training and hands-on research opportunities at state-of-the-art facilities, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to shape the intelligent future and benefit humanity.

You’ll build a solid foundation in intelligent information processing and machine learning that enables you to conduct interdisciplinary scientific inquiry and innovate across various fields. The comprehensive, research-focused curriculum is designed to prepare you for success in a wide range of career options, including academia, the high-tech industry, and entrepreneurship.

  • Research Fields:
    1. AI and Machine Learning Fundamentals
    2. Autonomous and Embodied Intelligent Systems
    3. AI for Healthcare and Medicine
    4. AI for Science

Program duration: 4 years

• PhD in Materials Science and Engineering

Westlake University’s Materials Science and Engineering (MSE) program is dedicated to the design and creation of next-generation materials that drive progress in energy, electronics, and healthcare. As a Ph.D. student, you will engage in frontier research at the intersection of physical, biological, and engineering sciences, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities to address pressing global challenges.

You’ll build a solid foundation in the structure-property-function relationships of materials, enabling you to design innovative solutions for the future. The rigorous, interdisciplinary curriculum is designed to cultivate creative researchers and prepare you for leadership roles in academia, advanced manufacturing, and the high-tech industry.

  • Research Fields:
    1. Energy Materials
    2. Electronic Materials
    3. Advanced Materials Characterization
    4. Advanced Manufacturing
    5. Biomedical Materials
    6. Sustainable Materials

Program duration: 4 years

• PhD in Quantitative Biology and Complex Systems

Westlake University’s Quantitative Biology and Complex Systems program is a unique interdisciplinary frontier that bridges the gap between life sciences and quantitative measurements. As a Ph.D. student, you will integrate biology, mathematics, physics, computer science, and engineering to study living systems in a way that is measurable, predictable, and modellable.

This program is defined by its radical flexibility. Unlike traditional programs, there are no set research fields, instead, you are empowered to design your own research direction. You will combine wet-lab experiments with computational modeling and AI to uncover quantitative laws in biological systems, preparing you for leadership in the next era of scientific discovery.

  • Research Fields: The program is so fundamentally interdisciplinary, there are no set research fields. Instead, students are encouraged to design their own research directions by combining wet-lab experiments with computational modeling and AI.

Program duration: 4 years

• PhD in Sustainability Science and Technology

Westlake University’s Sustainability Science and Technology program integrates environmental science, chemical engineering, and life sciences to tackle pressing global challenges. Through cutting-edge research, you will pioneer transformative solutions in environmental health, carbon neutrality, and biomanufacturing.

You will build a strong disciplinary foundation while exploring specialized modules in Molecular & Material Science, Mathematical & Information Sciences, and Earth Systems & Ecological Environment. This holistic approach empowers you to drive systemic change for a resilient, equitable, and thriving planet.

  • Research Fields:
    1. Biochemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Synthetic Biology, and Biomanufacturing
    2. Energy Systems and CO₂ Capture, Utilization, and Storage
    3. Complex Earth Systems, Global Change, Planetary Health, and Carbon Neutrality Strategy
    4. Biomaterials, Bioelectronics, Neuroengineering, and Computational Medicine
    5. Solid Mechanics, Fluid Mechanics, and Dynamics

Program duration: 4 years

• PhD in Chemistry

Westlake University’s Chemistry program is dedicated to achieving excellence in the chemical sciences and fostering strong interdisciplinary connections with fields like physical science, medicine, engineering, and material sciences. As a Ph.D. student, you will receive immersive training and hands-on research opportunities at state-of-the-art facilities, equipping you with the knowledge and skills needed to address today’s most pressing global challenges. 

You’ll build a solid foundation that enables you to conduct interdisciplinary scientific inquiry, discover new knowledge, and innovate across various fields. The comprehensive, research-focused curriculum is designed to prepare you for success in a wide range of career options, including the chemical industry, academia, medicine, and education.

  • Research Fields:
    1. Organic Chemistry
    2. Inorganic Chemistry
    3. Physical Chemistry
    4. Materials Chemistry
    5. Chemical Biology

Program duration: 4 years

• PhD in Physics

Physics at Westlake University has grown rapidly in recent years. Great progress has been made in areas like theoretical physics, condensed matter physics, and atomic, molecular, and optical physics. There are also plans to expand into high-energy physics and astrophysics. As a physics student here, you’ll receive strong training in mathematics and both theoretical and experimental physics. You’ll develop a wide range of interests and skills through your classes, experiments, and participation in academic seminars and presentations. The knowledge and abilities you gain will provide a solid foundation for your future career. After graduation, you’ll find that a degree in physics opens doors to many fields, including electrical engineering, computer science, chemistry, life sciences, and even finance.

  • Research Fields:
    1. Theoretical Physics
    2. Atomic and Molecular Physics
    3. Condensed Matter Physics
    4. Optics
    5. Biophysics
    6. Complex Physical Systems in Life Sciences

Program duration: 4 years

• PhD in Electronic Science and Technology

Electronics and Information Engineering is the driving force behind modern information technology, underpinning the world’s most advanced discoveries and achievements. By joining the School of Engineering in Westlake University, you will push the frontiers of applied sciences to introduce new technologies and knowledge that advance human well-being and environmental sustainability. In this program, you will make original contributions and develop impactful innovations that will shape the future of information technologies, including artificial intelligence.

  • Research Fields:
    1. Physical Photonics
    2. Circuits and Systems
    3. Micro and Nano Electronics and Solid-State Circuits
    4. Electromagnetics and Microwave Technologies

Program duration: 4 years

• PhD in Biology

Westlake University’s Biology department is an innovative community dedicated to excellence in the biological sciences and related fields such as physical science, medicine, engineering, and material sciences. The doctoral program in Biology offers opportunities for interdisciplinary research across the life sciences and related areas. Guided by globally respected faculty, doctoral students contribute to the development of new technologies, methodologies, and scientific innovations.

  • Research Fields:
    1. Biophysics & Biochemistry
    2. Cell Biology
    3. Genetics & Developmental Biology
    4. Immunology & Microbiology
    5. Neurobiology
    6. Chemical Biology
    7. Systems & Synthetic Biology

Program duration: 4 years

Academic and Research Opportunities

  • Academic Training: Participate in the Westlake Master Forum, seminar series, work-in-progress seminars (WIPS), international symposiums, academic research poster forums, and personal and professional development workshops.
  • International Experiences:
    • Funding for International Conferences: Present your research at global academic conferences with financial support for travel and registration.
    • Short-term International Academic Visits: Conduct research projects abroad at prestigious institutions with financial support for up to three months.
  • Shared Research Facilities: As a PhD student, you’ll have access to world-class laboratories and be involved in hands-on research as a Research Assistant.

Tuition Costs & Financial Aid

Westlake University is committed to reducing financial barriers for doctoral students so they can focus on their academic goals.

  • Tuition Costs:
    • Westlake University Programs: 40,000 RMB/ 5,660 USD per year
    • Joint University Programs: 37,000 RMB/ 5,230 USD per year
  • Financial Aid: Every admitted international PhD student receives a full tuition waiver and a monthly stipend for the duration of their studies.
  • Accommodation: 1,800 RMB or 2,200 RMB per year
  • Insurance: 800 RMB (113 USD Per Year)
  • Scholarships: More Than 85,000 RMB (12,000 USD Per Year)

How to Apply

The final application deadline is March 31, 2026. For the PhD in Chemistry, the deadline is March 16, 2026.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Non-Chinese citizen
  • A valid passport
  • Be in good health
  • Have a bachelor’s degree in a related subject
  • Evidence of English language proficiency

For more information about the admissions, check the Westlake University Application Guide.

Learn more about Westlake University:
What is it Like to be a Student at Westlake University?
Introducing Westlake University’s Ph.D. in Biology Hangzhou, China

About Westlake University

Westlake University is a new type of research university in Hangzhou, China, a first in the history of modern China. It was founded in 2018 by a group of leading scientists and educators who wanted to create a new model of higher education in China that combines cutting-edge research, interdisciplinary education, and international collaboration. Westlake University has four schools: the School of Science, the School of Engineering, the School of Life Sciences, and the School of Medicine. Westlake University has attracted some of the best faculty and students from prestigious global universities and has achieved remarkable results in various fields of science and engineering. Committed to its vision, Westlake University is dedicated to building an international, world-leading, and research-focused university. By 2030, Westlake University envisions having 5,000 students, including 3,000 doctoral students and 2,000 undergraduate students.

Learn more and apply for Westlake’s programs through the China Admissions platform.

Angel Tolentino
Angel Tolentino
Angel is from the Philippines and is responsible for a wide range of tasks at China Admissions to help students achieve their dreams. She is focused on boosting the company's growth presence, writing articles, and assisting with applicant screening.
Angel Tolentino
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