Discipline Support Scheme in China

Focus on the Growth of Tier-Two Universities

Abstract

　 Although top universities in China are transitioning into world-class ones, tier-two universities are also making great progress. To discuss the background of this phenomenon, the university support scheme, which focus on discipline, may be one of the factors. This study introduces the policy of the discipline support scheme in China and uses data analysis and case study to support the following findings.

　 Given the smaller package funds compared with top universities, tier-two universities continue to succeed in cultivating several excellent disciplines that are producing considerable outcomes. The factor is centralizing resources on promising disciplines. By recruiting or training researchers and improving equipment, the disciplines in tier-two universities elevate soft and hard power for competing with top universities.

　 The success of cultivating distinguished disciplines to narrow the gap between tier-two and top universities provides hints to national universities in Japan.