Ningbo University (NBU), founded in 1986, is a fast-growing comprehensive public university located in Ningbo, one of China’s most dynamic coastal and port cities in Zhejiang Province. Despite its relatively young history, NBU has quickly established itself as a key regional university with strong academic performance, international collaboration, and research innovation.
NBU is jointly supported by the Ministry of Education of China, the Zhejiang Provincial Government, and the Ningbo Municipal Government, reflecting its strategic importance in higher education development. The university has steadily risen in national rankings and is increasingly recognized for its strengths in business, engineering, marine sciences, medicine, humanities, and applied sciences.
With a growing population of international students and multiple English-taught programs, Ningbo University offers an excellent balance of academic quality, affordability, and global exposure.

Academic Strength & Research Profile
Ningbo University offers a full spectrum of undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral programs across multiple disciplines. The university places strong emphasis on applied research, innovation, and industry collaboration, particularly aligned with Ningbo’s role as a major economic, shipping, and manufacturing hub.
Key academic highlights:
- Strong programs in Business Administration, Economics, Finance, Engineering, Information Systems, Marine Sciences, and Medicine
- Nationally recognized research centers in aquaculture, marine biology, and fishery sciences
- Expanding postgraduate and doctoral research opportunities
- Active participation in regional and international research initiatives
NBU continues to invest heavily in research infrastructure and interdisciplinary development, making it an attractive choice for both taught and research-based degrees.
International Education & Global Cooperation
Internationalization is a core pillar of Ningbo University’s development strategy. NBU has established academic partnerships with universities and institutions across Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania, enabling student exchanges, joint research projects, and dual-degree opportunities.
International students at NBU benefit from:
- English-taught degree programs
- Dedicated international student services
- Cultural exchange activities and student clubs
- A welcoming campus environment with strong support systems
The university’s diverse international community fosters cross-cultural understanding and global perspectives.

Campus & Location Advantage
Location: Ningbo, Zhejiang Province
Ningbo is a modern coastal city known for:
- One of the world’s busiest ports
- Strong economy and international trade presence
- Lower living costs compared to Beijing and Shanghai
- High quality of life with clean environment and modern infrastructure
Its proximity to Shanghai (around 2 hours) makes it especially attractive for students seeking international exposure without the high living expenses of megacities.
Campus Facilities
Ningbo University’s campus spans over 3,000 acres, offering:
- Modern academic buildings and laboratories
- Advanced research centers
- Libraries with extensive digital and physical collections
- Sports complexes, gyms, and recreational areas
- Student dormitories, cafeterias, and daily-life facilities
The campus is designed to support both academic excellence and an active student lifestyle.
Student Life & Extracurricular Activities
NBU provides a vibrant campus life with a wide range of student organizations, cultural clubs, sports teams, and volunteer activities. International students are encouraged to participate in:
- Language exchange programs
- Cultural festivals and international days
- Academic seminars and innovation competitions
- Community engagement and social activities
These experiences help students integrate smoothly into campus life while building lifelong friendships.

Programs & Tuition Fees at Ningbo University (NBU) – 2027
Non-Degree Programs
| Program | Tuition Fee / Year |
|---|---|
| Chinese Language Training Program | 8,000 CNY |
Bachelor’s Degree Programs
| Program | Tuition Fee / Year |
|---|---|
| Accounting (CPA Canada Concentration) | 18,000 CNY |
| Business Administration | 18,000 CNY |
| English | 20,000 CNY |
| Financial Engineering | 20,000 CNY |
| International Economy and Trade | 18,000 CNY |
Master’s Degree Programs
| Program | Tuition Fee / Year |
|---|---|
| Art (Chinese-taught) | 27,000 CNY |
| Chemistry (Chinese-taught) | 30,000 CNY |
| Chinese History (Chinese-taught) | 18,000 CNY |
| Communication and Information System | 22,000 CNY |
| Design | 20,000 CNY |
PhD Programs
| Program | Tuition Fee / Year |
|---|---|
| Aquaculture | 20,000 CNY |
| Bioprospecting of Aquatic Resources | 20,000 CNY |
| Clinical Medicine | 30,000 CNY |
| Communication and Information System | 30,000 CNY |
| Fishery Facilities and Equipment | 20,000 CNY |
FAQs
NBU is well known for business, economics, engineering, aquaculture, marine sciences, communication systems, and medicine.
Yes. Ningbo University offers Chinese language training programs for international students at affordable fees.
Yes. NBU offers multiple PhD programs, particularly strong in aquaculture, marine sciences, medicine, and engineering.
No. Ningbo has lower living costs compared to major cities like Beijing and Shanghai while offering high living standards.