Complete an online application: Closed
Tuition: $1,980

American Studies for Chinese High School Students

Stanford University is offering a new distance-learning opportunity to high school students in China who are planning to attend university in the United States. This interactive, synchronous, online course on American Studies will introduce key issues in contemporary and historical U.S. society, with emphasis on the U.S.–China relationship. In real-time seminars with leading scholars, experts, and former government officials affiliated with Stanford University and other institutions, students will participate in a rigorous learning experience in the style of an American university course.

This English-language course explores issues fundamental to the United States in the 21^st century, providing an in-depth background for students aspiring to study in the United States. A wide range of topics and disciplinary approaches will be covered, including:

• Chinese immigration to the U.S.
• U.S. entrepreneurship
• Racial and ethnic diversity in the U.S.
• Current U.S. politics
• U.S.–China political and economic relations
• Comparison of secondary and higher education systems in the U.S. and China
   

Students will also gain practical skills necessary to succeed at a U.S. university:

• Pre-recorded, university-level lectures by leading scholars offer practice listening to a variety of lecturing styles
• Real-time discussions led by the guest lecturers familiarize students with the dynamics of U.S. classroom participation
• Short writing assignments improve critical thinking skills
• Independent research paper requires students to frame a suitable topic; research and synthesize information from appropriate sources; develop an argument; and draft and revise academic writing

Course components emphasize active participation and development of student interests:

• 10–12 “virtual classes” online, September 1 to January 15, 2018. These classes will meet in real time 2 or 3 Saturdays per month at 9:00 am Beijing time.
• Weekly pre-recorded lectures by leading scholars
• Weekly reading assignments of varying length and difficulty
• Required online discussion of readings with peers
• Short writing assignments reflecting on readings and lectures
• Independent research paper on topic of student’s choice (with instructor guidance)
• Online interaction with high school students in the United States
• Direction, facilitation, and support from the instructor throughout the course
   

Admission to this program is competitive; up to 30 exceptional high school students will be accepted. Students who are interested in attending a U.S. university will benefit the most from this experience. Requirements include:

• Enrollment in grades 10, 11, or 12 (高1 －高3) in a high school in China
• Ability to read, write, and discuss complex ideas in English.
• Availability for all or most of the virtual classes on Saturday mornings (schedule provided)
• Ability to allot 3–4 hours per week for class preparation and assignments, on student’s own schedule
• Use of a personal computer, headset, and reliable access to a broadband Internet connection
   

SPICE has been offering online courses promoting cross-cultural understanding to high school students in the United States and overseas for over 13 years. Students who successfully complete the course will earn Stanford Continuing Studies Program (CSP) credit* and a Certificate of Completion from SPICE, Stanford University.

*Please note that Stanford CSP credit is different from Stanford University credit. Stanford CSP credit cannot be transferred to Stanford University, but may be accepted by other colleges or universities (depending on the institution).

Dr. Tanya Lee
Encina Hall Central, C333
Stanford University
Stanford, CA 94305