HEPA Forum 2026 - University of Nottingham Ningbo China

University of Nottingham Ningbo China

In 2004, the University of Nottingham Ningbo China (UNNC) was the first Sino-foreign university to open its doors in China, and is a key member of the University of Nottingham’s global educational system.

Over twenty years later, we have grown into a diverse community of over 10,000 students and staff from 70 different countries and regions, representing a wide range of backgrounds and cultures. Our academic staff are world authorities in their fields – around one in ten are globally highly cited scholars. We offer academic programmes across three faculties – Nottingham University Business School China, Faculty of Science and Engineering, and Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences. Students have the opportunity to study at one of our 160 partner universities around the world.
In 2013, the Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) review of transnational education concluded that UNNC is an impressive achievement and that students receive as fully a British education as it is possible to provide in China. In 2024, UNNC was recognised as a 5-star institution by QS Stars Rating and received 5 stars in all evaluation categories across learning experience, employability, sustainability, research & innovation, and global engagement.

Innovation

UNNC has long been the cradle to the trailblazers and the pioneers. Students are encouraged to pursue their dreams and are provided with a wide range of extracurricular activities and an entrepreneurial ecosystem that paves the way for the future. Our annual Careers and Employability report shows that 9 out of 10 graduates entre global top universities or companies. Over the years, 9 alumni have been recognised in Forbes’ annual 30 Under 30 lists. UNNC is also a fast-growing hub for excellence in research and innovation. Driven by our collaboration with government, industry partners and communities, we provide impactful solutions to local and global challenges.

Sustainability

At UNNC, sustainability is not just a priority — it is a fundamental responsibility embedded in who we are. It informs how we operate, innovate and collaborate with our community. We are committed to leading by example and advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals through sustainable governance, operations, education, research and partnerships. In 2025, we launched China’s tenth Regional Centre of Expertise on Education for Sustainable Development (RCE) in Ningbo – the RCE Ningbo. It will integrate international sustainability education expertise with local resources and foster cross-sector collaboration to develop localised sustainability models.

Inclusion

UNNC is a truly international university. We take pride in our diverse global community of students and staff who are dedicated to achieving the highest levels of excellence in education and research. We develop the best talent by creating an open and collaborative environment, while engaging with local communities throughout the process. Over the years, our Rural Teacher Training Programme has benefited more than 600 teachers from over 280 schools across China. There are many more programmes like this at UNNC, through which we bring knowledge and findings to local communities and change their conditions for the better.

University of Nottingham Ningbo China

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