Tsinghua University
Schwarzman Scholars Program (SSP)
MasterSchwarzman Scholars was designed in collaboration with world-leading universities to create an international community that bridges differences.
Schwarzman Scholars is a fully-funded, one-year master’s degree and leadership program at Tsinghua University in Beijing, China. At the heart of the program are world-renowned advisers, a rigorous and innovative study of global affairs, and hands-on exploration of Chinese culture and commerce.
Curriculum Overview
1. Core Curriculum
The core curriculum equips Scholars with the knowledge they need to navigate China's role in the global economy and global affairs. Scholars develop leadership skills in their respective fields through core and elective courses, workshops, coaching, mentorship and exposure to high-level industry experts.
2. Elective Courses
Scholars choose from elective courses, which they can tailor to satisfy individual career goals while gaining a deeper understanding of the three pillars of the curriculum: China, Leadership, and Global Affairs.
3. Capstone
The required capstone project serves as a culmination of Scholars' academic experience. The project consists of a research paper, case study or policy analysis and can be completed individually or in a group. The group capstone option allows Scholars to work in teams on a client-defined or group-defined topic related to global affairs.
4. Deep Dive
Innovation and collaboration are built into every aspect of curriculum and co-curricular programming, including the Deep Dive: a two-credit, graded course including an intensive, one-week themed field trip to regions throughout China. In Deep Dives, Scholars visit leading companies, government agencies, and cultural sites around the country.
5. Leadership
Scholars choose between several core courses designed to analyze leadership from interdisciplinary, cross-cultural and career perspectives. Scholars also select “Leadership in Practice” courses taught by leaders from myriad professions and participate in leadership workshops. Through its partnership with The Rhodes Trust, Schwarzman Scholars also provides an Orientation workshop aimed at enhancing leadership skills.
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Application Period
Apr 2021 - Sep 2021
Classes Begin
Aug 2022
Eligibility
In addition to demonstrating extraordinary leadership skills, the ability to anticipate and act on trends and changes in their context, strong intellectual capacity, and exemplary character, candidates must meet the following criteria.
1. Must have an undergraduate degree
Applicants who are currently enrolled in undergraduate degree programs must be on track to successfully complete all degree requirements before August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrollment year. There are no requirements for a specific field of undergraduate study; all fields are welcome, but it is important for applicants, regardless of undergraduate major, to articulate how participating in Schwarzman Scholars will help develop their leadership potential within their field.
2. Must be 18-29 years of age
Candidates must be at least 18 but not yet 29 years of age as of August 1 of their Schwarzman Scholars enrollment year.
3. Must be proficient in the English language
Applicants must demonstrate strong English skills, as all teaching will be conducted in English. If the applicant’s native language is not English, official English proficiency test scores must be submitted with the application. This requirement is waived for applicants who studied at an undergraduate institution where the primary language of instruction was English for at least two years of the applicant’s academic program. The requirement will also be waived for applicants who have studied in English for two or more years at a Master’s degree level or higher. Acceptable test options are:Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL PBT). Minimum score 600. Internet-based Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL iBT). Minimum score 100. International English Language Testing System (IELTS). Minimum score 7.
Application Documents
1. Resume
A current version of your resume or CV (maximum 2 pages).
2. 2 Essays
The two required essays are a Leadership Essay (750 words) and a Statement of Purpose (500 words). The essays are a critical component of the application, designed to help the selection committee understand you as an individual and get a sense of your leadership abilities/potential, as well as your writing and analytical skills.
3. Transcript/Academic Records
You are required to scan and upload official transcripts for each degree-granting post-secondary education institution you attended.
4. 3 Letters of Recommendation
Recommenders should know you well and be able to speak to your intellectual abilities, personal characteristics, and leadership potential using specific examples from their direct experience working with you.
5. Video Introduction
Provide a short video self-introduction of no more than 1 minute. Introduce yourself in any style or setting you think best conveys your interests and personality. The point of this recording is to allow the committee to hear you introduce yourself in your own voice and style.