X+Y Joint Degree Programs
These are dual-degree programs structured in an “X+Y” format, where students complete part of their studies at BIGC and the other part at a partner institution abroad. Upon successful completion, students are awarded degrees from both institutions. Current offerings include:
1.1 Sino-American “1+2+1” Dual-Degree Program
The Sino-American “1+2+1” Dual-Degree Program is a collaborative initiative jointly developed and administered by the China Education Association for International Exchange (CEAIE), the China Center for International Educational Exchange (CCIEE), and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). As of October 2024, the program includes 210 participating universities (167 from China and 43 from the United States). It is characterized by a long-standing history, a wide range of participating institutions and disciplines, and advantages in time efficiency and cost savings. The Sino-American “1+2+1” Dual-Degree Program is divided into two sections: (1) Undergraduate Program: Selected lower-year undergraduate students will study for two years at a participating U.S. university and then return to BIGC to complete their remaining coursework. Upon meeting the academic requirements of both institutions, students can obtain both BIGC’s undergraduate diploma and bachelor’s degrees from both the Chinese and U.S. universities within four years. (2) Master’s Program: First-year master’s students are selected to study for 2 to 3 semesters at a participating U.S. university. Afterward, they return to BIGC to complete the remaining coursework and thesis. Upon fulfilling the academic requirements of both sides, students can obtain BIGC’s master’s diploma and master’s degrees from both the Chinese and U.S. universities within three years.
1.2 University of California, Irvine (UCI) “3+1+Access” Integrated Bachelor’s–Master’s–Doctoral Program
The “3+1+Access Track” is a graduate pathway program jointly launched by the School of Information and Computer Sciences, the School of Engineering, and the School of Humanities at the University of California, Irvine (UCI). It is designed for students aiming to pursue graduate studies at top-tier U.S. universities by offering a one-year academic and research bridge experience. Eligible third-year undergraduate students from BIGC may apply to this program and, upon admission, spend their fourth year at UCI engaged in preparatory graduate-level coursework and research practice. Upon meeting the program requirements, students may seamlessly progress to pursue master’s or doctoral degrees at UCI or its partner institutions. Fields of study covered include: Engineering, Computer Science, Humanities and Social Sciences, Education and Physical Sciences, and Law.
1.3 Edinburgh Napier University (ENU), UK – Integrated Bachelor’s and Master’s Program
2+2 Dual Bachelor’s Degree Program: Second-year undergraduate students at BIGC may apply for the 2+2 program. Upon completing the first two years of study at BIGC and receiving recommendation from the university, qualified students who meet ENU’s admission requirements will proceed to study for another two years in a related discipline at ENU. After fulfilling the degree requirements of both institutions, students will be awarded BIGC’s graduation certificate and bachelor’s degrees from both universities.
1+1+1 Dual Master’s Degree Program: First-year master’s students at BIGC may apply for the 1+1+1 Dual Master’s Degree Program. After completing the first year of study at BIGC, students who are recommended by the university and meet the admission requirements of Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) will study at ENU for the second year. Upon completing the required credits, they will return to BIGC for the third year to finish their studies. Students who fulfill the academic requirements of both institutions will be awarded a graduation certificate from BIGC and master’s degrees from both universities.
1.4 University of Stirling, UK – 3+1 Integrated Bachelor’s–Master’s Program
Third-year undergraduate students from the School of Publishing may apply for this 3+1 integrated program. Students will study for one year at the University of Stirling in the UK. Upon completion of their studies and fulfillment of the academic requirements of both institutions, students will be awarded a graduation certificate and bachelor’s degree from BIGC, as well as a master’s degree from the University of Stirling.
1.5 University of Canberra (UC), Australia – Joint Degree Program
2+2 Dual Bachelor’s Degree Program: Second-year undergraduate students at BIGC may apply for the 2+2 program. After completing the first two years of study at BIGC, students who are recommended by the university and meet the admission requirements of the University of Canberra (UC) will continue their studies in a related discipline at UC for the remaining two years. Upon meeting the degree requirements of both institutions, students will be awarded a graduation certificate from BIGC and bachelor’s degrees from both BIGC and UC.
3+1+Master’s (3.5+0.5+Master’s) Bachelor-to-Master Pathway Program: This program is designed for students enrolled in a four-year undergraduate degree. Participants will complete the first 3 (or 3.5) years of study at BIGC, then spend the final semester (0.5 year) at the University of Canberra as exchange students. During the exchange period, students will improve their English proficiency and take selected academic courses. After completing the exchange and transferring the credits back to BIGC, students who meet the graduation requirements will receive a graduation certificate and bachelor’s degree from BIGC. They may then continue their studies at the University of Canberra for 1 to 2 years of postgraduate coursework (depending on the program), upon completion of which they will be awarded a master’s degree from the University of Canberra.
Direct Master’s Admission Program: Fourth-year undergraduate students may apply directly for admission to postgraduate programs at the University of Canberra. Upon graduation from BIGC, they can proceed to pursue a master’s degree at UC. Outstanding students may apply for the University of Canberra’s doctoral programs during their postgraduate studies and pursue an integrated master’s-to-doctorate pathway.
1.6 Laurentian University, Canada – Bilingual (Chinese-English) MBA Program
Third- or fourth-year undergraduate students are eligible to apply for this program, which is open to all majors. Language training and academic coursework are conducted concurrently. Upon fulfilling the academic requirements of both institutions, students will be awarded a bachelor’s graduation certificate and degree from BIGC, as well as an MBA degree from Laurentian University.
