On January 15, 2026, Professor Andy Dougill, Dean of the Faculty of Sciences and a member of the University Council at the University of York, UK, led a delegation on a visit to East China University of Science and Technology (ECUST). Vice President Yan Haifeng met with the guests and, together with Professor Dougill, signed a cooperation agreement for the International Joint Multi-degree (JMD) Programme. Also present at the related events were Li Xiaopeng, Dean of the College of the International Education, and Tang Jimin, Deputy Director of the Office of International Cooperation and Exchange.

Signing ceremony for the Joint Multi-degree Programme Partner

Now in its third year of operation, ECUST’s innovative JMD Programme has successfully enrolled 175 students from 39 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the United Arab Emirates. The steady progress of the programme has attracted growing attention and collaboration from overseas universities. As ECUST’s fourth JMD partner in the UK, ECUST and the University of York will jointly establish “2+X” dual undergraduate degree programs taught entirely in English in fields such as Artificial Intelligence, Bioengineering (Biopharmaceutical), and Intelligent Manufacturing Engineering. By building a joint cultivation system featuring curriculum articulation and mutual credit recognition, the two universities aim to co-cultivate high-level professionals with global competitiveness, solidly advancing the high-quality international development of both institutions.

Representatives from both universities pose for a photo after the signing

During the visit, the delegation toured the Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center, gaining insights into the ECUST’s research achievements in field of Chemical and Molecular Engineering and accomplishments in international scientific research cooperation. Professor James Chong, Head of the Department of Biology at the University of York, also delivered a specialized academic lecture for students of JMD Programme, helping them gain a deeper understanding of the University of York’s disciplinary strengths and academic environment.

Delegates visiting Feringa Nobel Prize Scientist Joint Research Center

Both university representatives exchanged views on student cultivation

Professor Chong from UoY delivered a lecture, attracting a large number of students to attend

The University of York is a renowned public research university in the UK. It is a member of the Russell Group and participates in several major academic alliances, including the Worldwide Universities Network and the N8 Research Partnership. In the 2026 QS World University Rankings, the University of York ranks 169th globally, with nine of its subjects ranked within the global top 100. The university holds a Gold rating in the UK’s Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) and ranks within the top ten for research quality under the Research Excellence Framework (REF).