Best Journalism & Communication Schools in China

China boasts some of the best journalism and communication programs in Asia and the world. Whether you’re drawn to broadcast, digital media, international reporting, or media economics, here’s a curated list of the top schools worth considering.

Top-Ranked Media Programs in China

1. Communication University of China (中传, CUC) (Beijing)
2. Renmin University of China (人大) (Beijing)
3. Fudan University (复旦) (Shanghai)
4. Tsinghua University (清华) (Beijing)
5. Shanghai Jiao Tong University (上交大) (Shanghai)
6. Peking University (北大) (Beijing)
7. Wuhan University, Zhejiang University, Jinan University – are  also strong contenders

Moreover, these institutions often rank between #1 and #5 in national education quality assessments and are highly respected across China’s media landscape.

Why These Universities?

Communication University of China (CUC) — “The Media Dream Factory”

When people think about studying journalism in China, CUC is usually the first name that comes to mind—and for good reason. As a university entirely focused on media, communication, film, and broadcasting, CUC is like China’s version of NYU Tisch or USC Annenberg. It’s located in Beijing and has trained generations of journalists, TV anchors, filmmakers, and digital content creators. The campus itself buzzes with creativity, housing studios, production labs, and performance halls. If your dream is to work at CCTV, host a talk show, or produce documentaries, this is the school that will open doors. CUC’s tight-knit alumni network also makes it easier for students to land real-world internships even before graduation.

When people think about studying journalism in China, CUC is usually the first name that comes to mind—and for good reason. As a university entirely focused on media, communication, film, and broadcasting, CUC is like China’s version of NYU Tisch or USC Annenberg. It’s located in Beijing and has trained generations of journalists, TV anchors, filmmakers, and digital content creators. The campus itself buzzes with creativity, housing studios, production labs, and performance halls. If your dream is to work at CCTV, host a talk show, or produce documentaries, this is the school that will open doors. CUC’s tight-knit alumni network also makes it easier for students to land real-world internships even before graduation.

Renmin University of China (RUC) — “Where Media Meets Policy”

RUC offers more than just training in how to write news stories—it’s a place where students dive deep into media theory, public opinion research, and communication policy. Located in the heart of Beijing, RUC is a top choice for students who want to combine journalistic integrity with academic rigor. What sets it apart is its strong foundation in social sciences and humanities, making it ideal for those interested in political communication, investigative journalism, and even media entrepreneurship. Many of its graduates end up shaping public discourse through think tanks, government agencies, or as respected analysts in the news industry.

Fudan University — “Tradition with a Modern Twist”

Fudan is often referred to as the cradle of Chinese journalism. Founded in 1929, its journalism school is one of the oldest and most respected in China. But don’t be fooled by its age—Fudan is very much in tune with the digital age. Its location in Shanghai means students have direct access to China’s most international media market, and the university’s internship resources reflect that. Whether you want to work in bilingual newsrooms, PR firms, or international media groups, Fudan provides both academic grounding and practical exposure. It also has a global outlook, with exchange programs and dual degrees that prepare students for international careers.

Tsinghua University — “The Ivy League of Innovation”

Tsinghua doesn’t just teach media—it redefines it. With its strong background in engineering, big data, and artificial intelligence, Tsinghua’s journalism program is cutting-edge. It’s ideal for students interested in digital storytelling, media technology, and data journalism. Located near China’s political and tech powerhouses, Tsinghua offers unmatched access to research centers, policy forums, and innovation labs. What’s more, its School of Journalism and Communication often collaborates with international organizations, including the United Nations, offering students rare global exposure. If you see yourself leading the next wave of media innovation, this is the place to be.

Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) — “Technology Meets Storytelling”

SJTU is best known for engineering, but its journalism and communication program is a hidden gem, especially for students who want to fuse technology with media. Situated in cosmopolitan Shanghai, SJTU’s media curriculum emphasizes practical skills like digital content production, multimedia editing, and cross-platform storytelling. Students benefit from the city’s fast-paced media industry, with internships available in tech companies, video platforms, and creative agencies. SJTU attracts students who want to be more than reporters—they want to be digital creators, media strategists, or even entrepreneurs in the creative industry.

Peking University — “Academic Excellence with a Global Vision”

As one of China’s most prestigious universities, PKU offers a journalism program that blends academic depth with global thinking. While the school may not have the same hands-on production focus as CUC or Fudan, its strength lies in critical thinking, interdisciplinary research, and international collaboration. Students at PKU often take courses in international relations, literature, or sociology alongside media studies, giving them a broader worldview. For those interested in academic research, media criticism, or pursuing graduate studies abroad, PKU provides a powerful launchpad

Internship & Industry Connections in China

Internships are a pivotal part of China’s media education system, and these universities connect students with vibrant opportunities:

• CUC & Fudan partner with major TV stations, newspapers, and production houses—students often intern at CCTV, Phoenix TV, and Shanghai-based outlets.
• Fudan collaborates with outlets via the Shanghai Municipal Propaganda Department, offering students rich, practical field exposure .
• International programs organized through platforms like Go Abroad China and World‑Unite place foreign and local students in agencies across Beijing and Shanghai.
• Digital media internships, like Tsinghua’s UN Digital Communications program, offer high‑impact experiences in translating, social media strategy, and multimedia production.

In addition, it’s important to know that Shanghai is another major hub. They had major outlets that hosted bilingual internships in print, broadcast, and digital. Additionally, Shanghai often coordinates placements in English- and Chinese-language media on the ground.

Final Word: Why Study Media in China?

• Global prestige: These universities are recognized nationally and by QS and other indexes across Asia.
• Rich internships: Beijing and Shanghai host China’s media centers—abundant internship opportunities in TV, print, digital, and international NGOs.
• Cutting‑edge landscapes: From international communication in Beijing to digital media innovation in Shanghai, China’s media industry is evolving fast—with students at the heart of it.
• Affordable, multicultural: Many English- or English‑taught programs offer quality education with scholarship opportunities, faced with a vibrant mix of local and international peers.

Conclusion

So, if you want to study media in China, the following are the top choices:

University	Location	Best for…
Communication University of China (CUC)	Beijing	Broadcast & media practice
Renmin University of China (RUC)	Beijing	Media economics, policy, research
Fudan University	Shanghai	Journalism training & field internships
Tsinghua University	Beijing	Advanced media research & digital innovation
Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU)	Shanghai	Tech-savvy journalism & practical training
Peking University	Beijing	Media scholarship & international collaboration

Each university offers a unique experience. So, whether you’re interested in hands-on reporting, media theory, digital storytelling, or global communication, one of these options will never disappoint.

Start Your Journey to Study in China Today

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